Hi everyone, I just bought an 83 xls 1000 ironhead and for the first couple of weeks the bike was riding fine. Now all of the sudden its taking a long time to start up and when it does finally start it'll run for maybe a minute or 2 then stall out. Its also backfiring (making loud popping sounds from the exhaust, i'm guessing thats a backfire lol) through out the start up/running process before it stalls out. I just need it to ride long enough for me to get it to the shop. If anyone knows anything that might help I would greatly appreciate it. Thanks everyone!

 

when it stalls, have you checked for spark or fuel?

Looks like it has an S&S carb I would drop the bowl and check for debre and make sure the float level is correct..

 

I haven't checked the spark plugs yet, but I was going to head to a bike shop today to buy a new pair and a spark plug socket as well. Also when you say check fuel what do you mean?

 

Sounds like the carb is gummed up.

 

Before you do anything I suggest you get a Factory Service Manual. It'll give you all the info you need to check the items i suggested to you to check.. extremely important...

 

welcome Chris
It sounds to me like it's the Ignition Module
When they go bad it goes into a retard mode instead of advance spark mode
I don't think you will get any were riding it
The up dated Module is $125 on Ebay -- E-Z to install

 

Chris you said your sportster is a "83
what are you doing with a kick starter on it ??????
the last year for kick starters was "79
so do you have points or ign module ??? or a '70's engine