I'm new to Harleys, so kind of hoping for help here. And yes, I searched.

I have an 80 Shovelhead that I picked up as a non runner and some other missing parts. It was put back together, and took it out for a quick trip.

Was running a bit rough, so with some new fuel, decided to dump in some fuel additive. Yes, I know. Mistake.

It started to run like crap pretty quickly. Backfiring and kicking like a mean ex wife. Got it home, drained the tank. Put in fresh fuel.

Now, it won't start. Before I tear this thing apart I was hoping someone here may have a suggestion or two on possible issues.

It is getting fuel to the carb, and will get close to starting if I throw starting fluid at it. Otherwise just nothing.

Thanks,

 

Pull the spark plugs and take a look at them and replace if needed at it probably wont hurt.While the plugs are out put about a capful of gas in each spark plug hole.Put plugs back in. It should fire. Drain Carb,just a few things to check..

 

Thanks. Did replace the plugs as the old ones were pretty tarred up. I'll recheck the gap and try the gas in the plug hole. Thanks.

 

try with startig fluid in the intake..if it starts but does not stay on, take the carb apart and clean it/rebuild it

 

congrarts on the new bike.
if you haven't already or don't know.
check and or replace the fuel lines if they are old they can cause much grief.
remove the line to the carb turn on the fuel have a catch can of some sort for the fuel to go. you should have a steady stream assuming you have a full tank of fuel.
if not a good stream of fuel drain the tank and clean the petcock and check the tank to see it is clean.
if you are getting a good fuel supply to the carb take off or remove the bowl and clean things out with carb cleaner and compressed air. be careful to not loose any small parts when doing this. it would be a good idea to get a manual for the bike if it has a stock carb or get a parts description for the carb that is on the bike. make sure it has all of the parts when going back together with it. reason.. I've take apart a couple different S&S carbs to find the accelerator pump check ball missing, made for an ill running engine.
clean fuel supply
good spark
compression
good luck

 

Blow back through the fuel line to clear the filter screen on the petcock or pull it and clean it . Older bikes that's been sitting will flake varnish & crude with new fuel and block the screen, while it will show gas getting to the carb it will starve under load . Common problem .