2001 Yamaha Bear Tracker Voltage Rectifier

[texrock59]

I just replaced the voltage rectifier on a 2001 Yamaha Bear Tracker. I replaced the original rectifier with the same model. I noticed it was very hot - 180 degrees F. It that normal? It was idling for about 10 minutes and charging to 14+ volts when I first noticed. Any thoughts? TIA

[texrock59]

Update - Also the battery was at 12.6 Volts before cranking with the new rectifier/regulator. I cleaned the ground connections at the battery and frame, and also used heavy battery jump cable to connect from the negative post directly to the engine. Still running very hot at the regulator.

[Ajmboy]

They can absolutely run hot but that seems too hot. You may have a bad ground somewhere or a bad battery, even though you got 12.6 V out of it.

[texrock59]

I have cleaned all contact points of the ground wire and even shorted between the negative post to the engine case with heavy jumper cables. At a fast idle, went over 200 degrees. Does the rectifier case need grounding also? It's bolted to the frame, but nothing special.