The speedometer on my 2003 Springer Softail isn't working anymore.

It doesn't show the actual speed nor does it count the mileage (shows the last reading though).
Oil pressure light and engine check light are working, so is the lighting of the speedometer. Also the turn signals don't reset after a turn.

After a little research I found out that the VSS (Vertical Speed Sensor) sends data to the ECM and TSSM, and one of them (or both) feeds the speedometer.

I'm going to get the Electrical Diagnostic Manual but till I got it, it would be good to know if it's safe to keep on riding as is or if it could cause any more damage.

I think it's the TSSM that's messed up being that the turn signals don't reset after a turn too. So most likely I have to get a new one.

Did anyone had the same issue? How did you diagnosed it? Could there be any other reason for the malfunction?

Any input on that matter is greatly appreciated.

 

Have you pulled and tried to clean the VSS?

 

I'm going to try that. Seems that I need to get the Service Manual for the 2003 Softail too because the one I got for the 2007 Models won't match in that part.
Thanks a bunch madsonp.

 

The symptoms are indicative of a bad vehicle speed sensor. The vss is also used as part of the idle strategy so you might notice weird operation or even stalling as you come to a stop.

 

Yep sounds about right. I had it multiple times that the speedometer went haywire, going from 0 - 120 while the bike wasn't moving. Engine turned off when I rolled off the throttle. I'm in the process of moving but will check/replace the vss when I'm done. Thanks for the info.

 

Update:
While hauling the last load I took the bike while my wife was following with the truck and half way home my clutch cable snapped. Thanks to HOG roadside assistance the bike was towed home. I replaced the clutch cable and while I was already on it replaced the VSS as well. Speedometer is working and turn signals are resetting after a turn.
Thanks for the great advise you guys helped a lot.

 

Awesome!