Rough running sometimes TC -88

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Jun 27, 2012 | 02:01 PM

skinless

Thread Starter

Road Captain

Joined: Dec 2010

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From: williamston, n.c

Rough running sometimes TC -88

Wondering if anyone has had this problem I'm experiencing. When motor is cool ( first 2 to 3 miles down the road ) The bike seems to hesitate for a split second and when that happens the check engine light comes on. The light go's off after a few minutes. Once this past weekend the bike actually shut off. I usually start the bike and let it run 3 to 5 min before I head out when the motor is cool. Just this afternoon heading back from lunch I was leaving the Hardees, I got out on the highway and started accelerating and it seemed to miss about 3 times. I have not pulled the plugs or anything yet because I'm still at work. Was hoping someone has had the same issue and might have some suggestions. Any advise is appreciated.
By the way the motor is stock with just the addition of pipes and air cleaner and never jetted. Only time motor has been broke open is to have cam bearings replaced. Motor has about 25,000 miles on it and is out of a 99 FXDX.

Jun 27, 2012 | 02:17 PM

OldTyme

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Joined: Jun 2012

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From: Mishawaka, IN

When I bought mine (01 FXDL) it was missing quite a bit , pulled & replaced plugs & all was better. Never got any check engine lights though.....
My $0.01 (wasn't worth $0.02) : )

Jun 27, 2012 | 02:27 PM

Good_Apollo

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Joined: Jul 2010

Posts: 1,716

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From: Portland, OR

Quote:

Originally Posted by OldTyme

When I bought mine (01 FXDL) it was missing quite a bit , pulled & replaced plugs & all was better. Never got any check engine lights though.....
My $0.01 (wasn't worth $0.02) : )

Same here, and make sure the plugs you put in are properly gapped, this has caused misfires for me in the past too.

Jun 28, 2012 | 04:36 AM

skinless

Thread Starter

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Joined: Dec 2010

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From: williamston, n.c

Thanks for the suggestion. Will change out today.

Jun 28, 2012 | 07:30 AM

cecharles

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From: Lapeer, Michigan

Get yourself a pair of Autolite Iridium plugs. (pt# XS4164). Will make a big difference. Gap is .040". You also see how the plugs are burning and you might have to rejett the carb.

Jun 28, 2012 | 08:52 AM

skinless

Thread Starter

Road Captain

Joined: Dec 2010

Posts: 581

Likes: 1

From: williamston, n.c

Quote:

Originally Posted by cecharles

Get yourself a pair of Autolite Iridium plugs. (pt# XS4164). Will make a big difference. Gap is .040". You also see how the plugs are burning and you might have to rejett the carb.

Looked at J and P and seen them. Going to see if old Auto Zone has them.

Once again thanks guys

Jun 28, 2012 | 09:19 AM

rh8234

Elite HDF Member

Joined: Jul 2005

Posts: 3,968

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From: Lockport Township, IL

If you put on some pipes with less back pressure (louder) and a more free flowing air filter, you will definately need to re-jet. Also check for intake and exhaust leaks. When you changed the pipes, did you replace the manifold gaskets? Did the missing start after making one of the changes (pipes or AC)? Always check the last thing you worked on first.

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Jun 28, 2012 | 09:56 AM

skinless

Thread Starter

Road Captain

Joined: Dec 2010

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From: williamston, n.c

Quote:

Originally Posted by rh8234

If you put on some pipes with less back pressure (louder) and a more free flowing air filter, you will definitely need to re-jet. Also check for intake and exhaust leaks. When you changed the pipes, did you replace the manifold gaskets? Did the missing start after making one of the changes (pipes or AC)? Always check the last thing you worked on first.

The bike was fine after the installs of pipes and air filter 2 to 3 years ago. It has always been kinda hesitant on cold days. When I first bought the bike I brought it to get serviced and adjusted. The mechanic sad there so no need in jetting. Thinking this whole time it might need it. Last thing I did was remove exhaust and did replace gaskets. I have checked the nuts a few times and looked for leaks and nothing was found. Will check again because things do loosen up.

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Jun 28, 2012 | 10:15 AM

CM22

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Joined: Aug 2010

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From: Tennessee

If it is not the plugs it sounds like a carb re-jet is what will be needed. I have a 2000 FXD and it likes to spoil the rear plug pretty often. I always carry an extra in the tool bag.