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what do you think I have ?...starter/solenoid push remote button? FXR
I have had issues with the starter relay crapping out on my 1990 FXRS-SP. so I order a remote starter button, that is supposed to fit, it doesn't. My installed starter is larger than the one listed as correct. Measuring hole to hole across the bottom, the screw hole on the old one has 2 1/2 across the bottom, the new one sent (eBay) is only 2" across the bottom, screw hole to screw hold.
So I guess the stock starter was replaced? eBay vendors don't list the actual sizes, they only say it fits the FXR. & Won't answer questions on fitment.
Seems you have two threads running on the forum...
A lot of starter relays get replaced, and in my opinion...Most of them are still good.
The biggest issue is the electrical connections get dirty and/or corroded, and the resistance of the connection gets too high.
The electrical connectors on the mid `90s and earlier Harleys are not waterproof, and need some periodic maintenance.
Once a year, unplug the connectors, clean the contacts and battery cable connections (at each end), and you will probably never have an issue, unless the battery is dead...
I replaced a 31 year old starter relay in my `89 Softail last winter, it was still working fine but I replaced it because I was going through the entire wiring harness cleaning up the connection points, and I found a new relay in my parts bin...
The OEM starter relay sold by the dealer is a sealed unit, it is a much better choice than an auto parts store relay designed to be used under the hood of a car.
Sorry I can`t help you with the starter solenoid push button, I have never used one and have never been stranded because my bike wouldn`t start.
The second relay setup is not necessary on a `90 FXRS, the same thing can be accomplished by running a wire from the silver stud on the main breaker to pin 30 on the starter relay.
The second relay is a great idea for bikes that use the start relay to control the headlights during start, but not many models did this.
Illustration (new wire in red, old wire in green):
Last edited by Dan89FLSTC; May 14, 2021 at 05:21 PM.
I opened up a relay from my FXR that crapped out. The relay contacts inside were not aligned well and had carbon tracking that I think led to their demise. I see a problem with their construction.
I opened up a relay from my FXR that crapped out. The relay contacts inside were not aligned well and had carbon tracking that I think led to their demise. I see a problem with their construction.
I pulled the oem relay off my `89 Softail this past winter, it was still working fine, I don`t have an issue with their construction...
The oem relays are sealed units, and diode protected. They don`t cost any more than a generic part from an auto parts store.
Ordered one for myself too just haven't put it on yet, post details about installing it..
My relay went out? Unplugged it and plugged it back in and no issues... But I did also buy 2 extra to keep in my bags incase
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