Electrical/Charging issue

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Feb 19, 2014 | 07:27 AM

#11

nhrider1

Road Warrior

Joined: Jul 2012

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From: Londonderry, NH

Quote:

Originally Posted by GP_Pirate

Thanks Jeff - Here some battery readings I just took:

At rest overnight - 12.49v
Key on - 11.9v
Key off after turning it on - 12.0v gradually increasing to 12.4v
During starting - 9.6v
Engine running - 14.25v

Those readings are pretty marginal. Charging system seems OK. I think you're going to need a new battery.

Feb 19, 2014 | 04:19 PM

#12

GP_Pirate

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From: Tallahassee

Quote:

If you have a quality battery, it should be able to deliver after only 18 months old unless you are not riding it enough to keep things charged and working smoothly...putting it on a trickle charge for months on end and then riding a few hours is not the best scenario.

So true, I know. I put few miles on and the bike may sit for a week or more without being ridden, and many of my trips are short.

I charged the battery overnight with a trickle charger and the resting voltage was a little over 12.6v a couple of hours after removing the charger. I started the bike again, let it idle for a bit to warm up and then revved the engine to what I guessed was 3-4k rpm. The voltage was around 14.3v throughout the range. Removed the derby cover and did not smell anything I would describe as bad, but then I don't know what it is supposed to smell like. I have an appointment at the dealer tomorrow and I'll let them do a complete check up on the electrical/charging system, just to be safe. Bike Week is coming up and I don't want to become stranded. Also, ordered a service manual so I can get to know the bike better and take care of it myself, at least for some things.

Thanks to everyone for your help.

Feb 19, 2014 | 04:54 PM

#13

JohnnyC

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Joined: Oct 2010

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From: Near Frankenmuth, MI

With the battery being recent, the stats look good, and the dealer saying it's working correctly, I would recheck all main power connections. The battery posts connection can loosen slightly and oxidize, then you can't draw a large current to crank over the starter. The problem also will throw off cranking voltage.

It may be hard to understand how something so simple can ground so many bikes but checking the main lines at the connecting posts on the battery, cleaning them and then re-torquing has cured one of the largest failure issues. Also be certain that the main line connections on the other end are cleaned and torqued too.

This won't cost you any money to try. And let us know what you find.

Feb 19, 2014 | 07:34 PM

#14

GP_Pirate

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From: Tallahassee

Hey Johnny - Yes, you are right about connections. I did remove the battery cables and polished them up a bit with a wire brush. I need to check the other connections as well. BTW - love your bike - what a classic! Just goes to show if you take care of them, they will last a long time.

Feb 20, 2014 | 10:05 AM

#15

JohnnyC

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From: Near Frankenmuth, MI

I'm thinking that you have made good contact at the battery. Be sure to check the main line between the solenoid and the starter. Also there should be a braided ground strap from the frame to the starter.

Thanks for the compliment on my old '86 Tour glide. At 61K I've got the top end tore down for a complete overhaul, and a few little fixes. Really looking forward to this upcoming riding season.

I have several photos of my bike in my garage photo album here on the forum. But this is my6 favorite.

Feb 20, 2014 | 07:21 PM

#16

GP_Pirate

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From: Tallahassee

Went into the dealer today and it was the battery all along, as many suggested. My fault no doubt for not riding it regularly. I'm glad that was all it was. Ready for Bike Week now. Thanks to everyone for all the help. You guys are the best! Ride safe.

And Johnny - thanks for the pic. New Harleys are very nice, but a beautiful older one like yours is a work of art (just like a good woman or bottle of fine wine).