8 volts is a little high, which could cause the battery plates to warp or the water level in the cells to drop too quickly. I'd suggest dropping the regulator setting just a little, but remember that when you install the cover after making the adjustment, the voltage will drop slightly due to better magnetic conduction of the steel cover. Adjust the voltage at the battery posts cruise RPM to about 7.7 or so with the cover removed, and it should drop to about 7.5 with the cover on.
Jerry

"It is better to be silent and be thought a fool than to speak and eliminate all doubt!" - Abraham Lincoln
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