Drilling holes in alternator covers

[NCAmother]

I've seen few guzzles online with "breathing patterns" cut into the alternator cutter.   Seems like it would be a disadvantage in the real world (water/mud).  Is this just an aesthitic decision these guys made? 

[NCAmother]

Probably a styling exercise Nate , although air head beemers used vented covers , probably to keep the diode board cool .

  Dusty

That's interesting Dusty, I would just assume disaster after a few thousand miles riding in dirt and rain.
Nate

[Wayne Orwig]

What bike are you talking about?

Most of the late model Tonti alternator covers are spaced away from the motor to allow air flow between them and the motor.

I understand the the latest V7 models run the alternator in an oil bath.

[Testarossa]

From the T3 onward, Tonti alternators produced enough heat to melt the insulation on the wiring connectors (happened to my T with an upgraded stator). Those bikes need airflow. You can fit a plastic aftermarket spacer, fiddle up a homemade spacer system or drill the cover.

See http://www.mgcycle.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=37_161&products_id=784

[PeteS]

My '76 came without a spacer. I later added the one sold by MGcycle. It must work as I still have the original parts in there and water and debris don't seem to be an issue.

Pete

[guzzimatic]

no need to drill,I use SS washers to space the cover about a 1/16 in.allows heat to escape,gives water a way to drain.I have learned setting up shocking boats for Biologists that any cover needs at least an 1/8 in.hole to let water out...