My '08 Ultra is making a different noise when I hit the run switch. Instead of the high pitched whine it now makes a lower pitch gravelly whine followed by a hissing sound like air leaving a tire that seems to be coming from the air filter area. The bike starts right up and runs normally but something has changed.

I thought it was my battery but the voltage looks right, does anyone have any ideas

 

I could be a hole in the gas line inside the tank. My buddy's 05 Road King did the same thing before he got it fixed.

 

I have this posted on another HD forum, one response to each post with the same answer. You guys must be on to something. Thanks for the response.

 

08 - 6 years old - Have you already changed the battery? DO A LOAD TEST ON THE BATTERY! After using the bike, the battery will have a surface charge on it showing "ample" voltage but if this is the case a load test will expose a weak battery.

08 - 6 years old - never changed the battery - If this is the case -
Just Saying!

 

You may want to read this thread...this may be your problem:
(Induction module)

https://www.hdforums.com/forum/touri...om-harley.html

Here is what one of the posters said:

"Defective design.....instead of the gentle whine of te FI when you hit the start button, it sounds like Woody Woodpecker is trying to peck his way out of your aircleaner! Beware......if you hear this noise.....bring it to your dealer asap! Hopefully they have the part by then ! Hope it doesn't happen to you brother....or anybody else out there!"

 

08 = 4 years old.

There was a fuel filter canister recall on the 08s, was yours done?
Also could be a hole in the lines, I've heard of reports that they can wear through if they were not routed correctly.

 

Rule of thumb on ANY motorized vehicle - the day you pick it up it is a used vehicle!
2008 (maunufactured in 2007)
2009
2010
2011
2012
To me that adds up to 5 years! I had a DUH moment the last post!!

 

Today is August 11, 2011
Yeah, they started building 2012 models a couple months ago. They have been selling them for almost a month now.
My '08 was built in June of '07 approximately 4 years and 2 months ago.
Now for your 5 year you are subtracting build date from the current model year.
2012-2008 = 4 years.
2011-2007 = 4 years.

I have no doubt that a battery can go bad in less than 4 years (I used to feel lucky if I got 2 seasons on a battery).

 

Probably the fuel pump housing issue... I believe there is a recall... My buddy just went thru this on his 08, make sure they replace the entire assembly from the neck down to the filter housing... a $130 part...

 

Just replaced hoses in an 08 softail today doing the same thing. Hoses look like a silly straw in the tank and it rubbed a hole in one.