Comparison of 12-Volt Conversion Systems
Wolter Klaus , 14 Mar 2002
Comparing:
http://members.aol.com/antiquebmw2/conversion.html and
http://www.dynamo.mz-b.de/bmw/bmwmain.htm
-Vech's system replaces the 6v generator with a 12v alternator. The
MZ-b system replaces the 6v generator with a 12v alternator AND it replaces the
entire ignition system.
-Vech's 12v conversion system is 200 watts while the MZ-b is only 150 watts.
-Vech's system uses a true alternator, where current through the field
controls the output of the alternator. The MZ-B system uses permanent magnets
for the field so they have to regulate the higher current from the stator
windings. Basically, the regulator is controlling less than 4 amps in Vech's
system while the regulator in the MZ-b system is controlling up to 11 amps of
current. (150W / 14v = ~11A)
-Vech's system does not effect the (Bosch magneto) ignition system that came
standard on the /2. The MZ-b system replaces the ignition system. With the MZ-b
system you remove the entire magneto system: Coil, points, points-plate,
rotating magnet, pole-piece, condenser and mechanical advance. The MZ-b system
uses a dedicated winding, located in the alternator, for their ignition system. They replace the mechanical advance with an electronic advance and the coil is
similar to the coils you find on newer cars that use a wasted spark ignition
systems. The MZ-b system will run fine without a battery in the bike.
(They suggest you put a small capacitor in its place if you do not install a
battery.) It's a modern magneto ignition system that uses electronics to replace
the breaker points and the mechanical advance.
-Vech's system is all contained neatly inside the engine covers. The
MZ-b system hangs stuff outside in the breeze to avoid the biggest enemy to
electronics: Heat.
-I'm not sure how well the connectors, used to plug the various modules
together, in the MZ-b system would survive out in the elements. They don't look
to be as moisture-proof as what you see under the hood of a modern car. I
could very well be wrong on this, however.
-It should be pointed out that MZ-b uses Vape electrical parts in their
systems. MZ-b specifies the timing curve and does the packaging, marketing and
distribution. I have no idea who makes the basic alternator assembly for
Vech.
-Both systems can be converted back to "original", should the desire arise.
From: "Wolter, Klaus"
Date: Wed Feb 5, 2003 2:28 pm
Subject: RE: [slash2] Re: 6v battery and the MZ electrics
Your Motorrad Elektrik alternator conversion kit is more conventional and is
just like what is used on most cars. The ignition coil that comes with your MZ-B
12v electronic ignition conversion is not the same as the ignition coil that
comes with the system that includes the alternator. Your system is dependent on
the battery being able to supply enough current to fire the sparkplugs when you
try to kick it to life. If your battery is dead, there will be no spark. This is
not the case with the MZ-B system that comes with the alternator. Your Motorrad
Elektrik alternator is not very similar to the MZ-B alternator. Your alternator
has no permanent magnets, like the MZ-B. The regulator on your alternator
controls the charging current by controlling the intensity of the magnetic
field, inside your alternator, electrically. The MZ-B can't change the magnetic
field inside it's alternator. It's fixed because it uses magnets instead of an
electromagnet. Magnets, in the MZ-B alternator, allow it to generate a
spark without a battery, just like the original BMW ignition.
From: Joel Rapose
Date: Jan 2003
Subject: MZ-B Electronic conversions
I now have in stock 6 electronic ignition/alternator conversions available
for immediate shipment. I decided to sell the kits after waiting 5 weeks
for my original system to arrive from Europe (economy shipping) So I made an
agreement with MZ-B to be the Distributor for their kits in the USA.
I really love my kit, and I have been distributing systems for about a
year...I carry all the spare parts in stock so I can ship anything by bus or air
if needed.
The prices are the same as on the web site... I do charge for European
shipping to me...but I buy 6 at a time and ship economy so it is only
$14.40 per kit.
This is a SUPER conversion 12 volt alternator and Electronic Ignition... trouble free...does away with the points, advance mechanism, magneto, generator,
regulator and replaces it with a neat clean modern system...using modern
motorcycle parts..all hidden under the tank... even comes with new plug wires..it is really complete, stainless steel mounts, all the connections are
made up....the total installation takes less than several hours....and it's
easy... I am also available by phone to answer any questions. 805-987-1750
The complete alternator (12volt) and ignition price is 301.72 euros $322.24.
Shipping from Europe is $ 14.40.
The special alternator puller tool is (I highly recommend) $ 12.82.
USA shipping to you is $ 8.00.
Total is $357.46. This changes with currency conversion
changes
Added in later msg:
There are two different crankshaft taper sizes, early bikes, up to about 1960
had the smaller taper and the later bikes had the larger. Yes, I do stock both
and if you order the wrong size I keep a spare just for exchange. Installation
of the kit only takes about 2 hours. You will need a 12 volt battery but
everything else is in the kit...also you will need to get the alternator removal
tool they offer...it's something like $12 ...The new alternator has a large bore
where it attaches to the crankshaft and without the tool I don't have a clue how
you would ever remove it if you had to...also I found out that if you have a
bike with a damper, like a R69S the nut from the alternator tool works as a
perfect mounting flange for the damper, even better than the original.
Joel Rapose
Camarillo Calif
Note by Duane, it takes far longer than 2 hours to install the Mz-b system. Joel and I did one together and it took us over 2 hours.
One also needs the 12 volt bulbs.
More info about fitting the Mz-b alternator
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