If your Harley won’t start, you may have several problems to deal with. These problems may include a dead battery, interlock clutch/starter switch, or a blown fuse. If you’re unsure of the cause of your Harley’s non-starting problem, it’s best to consult a professional mechanic or repair shop before replacing any parts. If you’ve tried a few of these steps and still your Harley won’t start, you may have to replace some parts.
Symptoms of a dead battery
If you notice any of the symptoms above, then it’s time to change your battery. Depending on your particular model, Harleys can take quite a beating from their batteries. A good rule of thumb is to replace your battery at least every five years or so. Depending on your model, you might be able to get more than five years out of your battery. If your battery dies before that time, you should be home, ready to jumpstart it with a jumpstart. Alternatively, you can always purchase a small booster pack and take it with you.
Another common symptom of a dead battery is the inability of your motorcycle’s accessories to work properly. The lights may not be as bright as they once were, and the stereo, GPS, and headlamp may not function at all. If you’re unsure of the cause of your motorcycle’s battery problem, the first step to take is to check the voltage. Make sure that the meter is set to read volts, and that you’re not affecting the other electrical systems.
Checking the resistance/continuity of the switch
One of the most common problems when starting a Harley Davidson is low oil pressure. To test this, first check the oil pressure switch. Connect a multimeter to the common pin and the normally closed pin. The circuit should be closed at rest, but open while running. If the oil pressure does not seem to be sufficient, then it could be the oil pressure sender.
Checking for water in some spots on the bike
Despite the best efforts of a mechanic, checking for water on the Harley Davidson is not always easy. Oil leaks can occur in several places, so it’s important to find any leaks in a timely manner. When checking for water on the Harley, it is best to do it right away, but some spots are not as easy to find. Soak up the excess oil. Check the oil drain plug to see if it’s still sealed.
If you have a motorcycle that requires regular service, you must also check the coolant reservoir. Many models have an access panel that slides out from the center. Open it with the access panel in the center and check the levels. The level should be at or just above the COLD full line. If the level is low, add some genuine Harley Davidson extended life antifreeze. Some models may have a reservoir in the lower right fairing.
Checking for a faulty ignition switch
If your motorcycle won’t start, chances are the ignition switch is to blame. It controls the ignition process and the temperature of the engine. If it won’t turn over or start, there may be a problem with the ignition coil. If this is the case, you should check the fuses. If the fuses are all blown, you may need to replace the entire ignition switch.
If these tips don’t work, you may need to call a professional mechanic to help you diagnose the problem. Check for water in any electrical components, including the battery and starter. If these things aren’t the problem, then you can replace them. Otherwise, it’s a good idea to consult a professional to diagnose the problem. After all, you don’t want to damage your bike further.
Checking for a bad spark plug
If your Harley-Davidson won’t start, there are several potential causes. First, check for a dead coil, which causes the ignition system to malfunction. The engine may make a grinding or rattling noise, or it may shut down as if the key was turned off. If it doesn’t start, you could have a clogged ignition coil, a faulty ignition coil, or an open loop. In addition to these, check for a weak spark signal and a loud burr, which indicate that the ignition system has a problem.
If you’re not sure what to do next, you should consider changing your Harley’s spark plug. While you might be tempted to stick with the stock spark plug, changing it often will give your bike a better performance and start more reliably. The right spark plug can also extend your motorcycle’s life. Regardless of what your budget is, it’s worth taking a moment to check for a bad spark plug.