Hello all...
I have a 89fxr, the problem I am having is when I run with the lights on it pops, sputters, coughs an tires to die... when lights are off no issues... any ideas? I have replaced battery, cables, plugs, and headlight. Could it be the coil? If it is what should I be running 3ohm or 5ohm.. motor is mostly stock... thank you in advance

 

did you change out all the circuit breakers? i would start there if you already changed the other things.

 

Go through the charging system sticky.

 

under the bike in the center is a ground strap - its bolted to the bottom inner primary and the frames cross plate - it comes loose and will drive you nuts trying to find whats happening - the bike looses its ground

FXR and FL machines in that era first place we go

 

Fwiw, when I changed out my spots and headlite to LED the voltage went up and ignition seemed to respond so much better.

 

The LEDs reduced the load on the charging system, which gave you that bonus. It's possible there is a lot of resistance built up at connectors and grounds, so you could consider doing some 'house-keeping' by disconnecting your grounds and connectors and cleaning then using dialectric grease prior to reassembly.

 

Absolutely,Sir .I also ditched some of the block connectors that imo will never be cycled ,and made solid connections which helped with intermittent lighting problems.

 

How's your battery and regulator?