Kill Switch Issues
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Cruiser
Joined: Jun 2016
Posts: 154
Likes: 100
From: Wisconsin
Kill Switch Issues
My 2017 Ultra Limited seems to have an issue related to the kill switch on the right handlebar.
I use the kill switch to shut the engine off, then turn off the main switch. I do this in reverse order to start the bike - main ignition switch on (dashboard and light turn on) - then turn the kill switch off and push the starter button.
Sometimes nothing happens. I cycle the kill switch several times and finally, the starter button will work.
Is this a known problem, or a gremlin specific to my motorcycle?
Thanks.
I use the kill switch to shut the engine off, then turn off the main switch. I do this in reverse order to start the bike - main ignition switch on (dashboard and light turn on) - then turn the kill switch off and push the starter button.
Sometimes nothing happens. I cycle the kill switch several times and finally, the starter button will work.
Is this a known problem, or a gremlin specific to my motorcycle?
Thanks.
Stellar HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2013
Posts: 2,464
Likes: 50
From: Rouses Point, N.Y.
It is my opinion that the kill switch is only used in the case of and emergency, I turn the main switch on and off to start any bike. the kill switch is going to get worn contacts with all that use and is going to fail at some point in time. just my two cents!
Club Member
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 21,642
Likes: 22,568
From: North Carolina
You can always put a new switch pack on. Not too expensive and easy to change out.
On my 2017 CVO that is how you turn the engine off. I have had zero issues.
Over the years I have heard the pros and cons of using it all the time. Really it just comes down to what works best for you.
The key thing is to know how to find it when needed!
Good luck
On my 2017 CVO that is how you turn the engine off. I have had zero issues.
Over the years I have heard the pros and cons of using it all the time. Really it just comes down to what works best for you.
The key thing is to know how to find it when needed!
Good luck
Tourer
Joined: Dec 2009
Posts: 406
Likes: 13
From: Langley, BC. Canada
I was told by the Kuryakyn computer guy that using the kill switch screws up the computer programming. When you use it the computer doesn't have the time to retain its memory like it does when you use the key. It is programmed to retain it when the Key is turned off. Like Targe64 says, it is supposed to be used in emergencies, not for general use.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2015
Posts: 10,001
Likes: 5,266
I was told by the Kuryakyn computer guy that using the kill switch screws up the computer programming. When you use it the computer doesn't have the time to retain its memory like it does when you use the key. It is programmed to retain it when the Key is turned off. Like Targe64 says, it is supposed to be used in emergencies, not for general use.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 38,300
Likes: 6,325
From: Honah Lee
Your switch is bad. And the book says to use it. I don't like some. Could it actually be the start switch, relay or starter solenoid? If under warranty, I would watch for it still happing when not using the bar switch. Then I would keep a record and point it out to service. It's sometimes hard to get them to fix something if it is working. Keeping a record and what exactly fails would be good.
Road Master
Joined: Mar 2013
Posts: 784
Likes: 600
From: Alberta
Shoot based on this logic I better stop using my signal light switches too
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Road Warrior
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 1,997
Likes: 915
From: Madisonville, La
The engine cut off switch is designed to be used every time you start or stop the engine. If you don't get in the habit of using it every time when things turn bad quickly your mind and reflexes are not trained to hit the engine cut off switch. That's why it's placed where it is so it can be reached with your thumb without letting go of the handle bars to use the main switch.
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