Intermittent Power Loss

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Sep 11, 2017 | 10:48 AM

Big Sack

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Joined: Sep 2017

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From: Ontario

Intermittent Power Loss

Looking for some advice. 94 FX running 120 Ultima. Having intermittent power loss. I'm ruling out fuel issues as it's like someone has just hit the kill switch. Sometimes it's a quick on / off other times it sits for 5 minutes or so then fires back up. Very sporadic and doesn't matter if it's hot or cold.

Last time there was some back firing involved so I'm not sure if I should be leaning to or away from a coil issue......

Any help is appreciated!

Sep 11, 2017 | 11:18 AM

0maha

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From: Omaha

I wouldn't be so quick to dismiss fuel. Mine (stock 80ci motor) did the exact same thing. You'd be running along at highway speed then ::BLINK:: it would just stop.

Turned out to be a dodgy needle valve. Or at least I think it was. I gave the carb a complete rebuild with all new rubber bits, new needle valve, polished needle valve seat and careful float level adjust and the problem has never come back.

Yours may or may not be the same, but if you haven't freshened up the carb in a while, that's something to look at.

Sep 11, 2017 | 11:38 AM

Doug Fogleman

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Joined: Sep 2016

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From: southern new jersey

its a 94, are you loosing power as well? is the whole bike cutting out. if so, i had that on my 94 and it was the ignition switch contact points.

Sep 11, 2017 | 11:45 AM

Big Sack

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From: Ontario

Yes it's losing total power, it's just like shutting the ignition off, same result. I actually pondered buying a new switch, cheapest route as far as throwing parts at it. Yes a 94 with 120 Ultima. Absolute rocket.....when it runs.

Won't rule out the fuel now either.

Sep 11, 2017 | 01:58 PM

texashillcountry

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From: Haslet Texas

Quote:

Originally Posted by Doug Fogleman

its a 94, are you loosing power as well? is the whole bike cutting out. if so, i had that on my 94 and it was the ignition switch contact points.

In addition to this check the wires going to the ignition switch to see if any of them are breaking.

Actually I'd check the wires first as that's easier.
All you have to do is pull the dash and give a slight tug on all the wires one at a time.
If any feel loose or weak just put a new ring connector on the wire and reinstall.