I found out today that my battery shorted internally yesterday when I tried to start my 1985 FLTC so I put in a new battery but now my starter isn't kicking in. What do you think bad solenoid or bad starter?

 

A friend of mine just had the same problem.
There is a shaft in the solenoid that has a big washer on it.
The shaft in his had gotten corroded and wouldn't spin.

He took it apart and cleaned the shaft and all is well again.

He has an '85 FXEF if that matters.

 

Thanks, I checked all and just had a loose cable at the solenoid. Guess all the vibration loosened it over time. I put on some low strength lock tight on all connections and am good now.

 

Glad you got it running!!!

 

Good news! Unless you take a long run on your new battery, to fully charge it, disconnect it and charge it overnight with a proper battery charger. Despite what the makers say they are not fully charged when we buy them and will give better service that way, especially if you normally only take short rides.