88 FLHTC blinking out.
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Intermediate
Joined: Mar 2019
Posts: 33
Likes: 3
From: Crystal Springs MS.
88 FLHTC blinking out.
Okay my EVO brothers. Riddle me this. 1988 FLHTC. 34 K miles. Had the bike a year. Twice on the past week while running down the road the total electrical system blinks out. Of course the bike dies instantly. Within 5 seconds the bikes electric system fires back up and the bike cranks and runs with no side effects.
I have no idea where to start. I checked all the normal battery cables and wires. With the bike running I move everything possible but it does not die. I have changed out the main breaker a few weeks ago and I rebuilt The ignition system a month ago.
Thanks in advance for any help. Trying to keep the old girl running.
Bro Webb
I have no idea where to start. I checked all the normal battery cables and wires. With the bike running I move everything possible but it does not die. I have changed out the main breaker a few weeks ago and I rebuilt The ignition system a month ago.
Thanks in advance for any help. Trying to keep the old girl running.
Bro Webb
Club Member
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 45,429
Likes: 2,897
From: Bedford UK
I don't know if this applies to US spec bikes, but we had a similar problem while travelling in Europe a few years ago. My 1990 bike has an accessory switch, on the back of the forks, which developed a fault. Repeatedly flicking the switch brought the bike back into life, something I had to do a few times to get us back home. Worth checking if you have a similar switch.
Banned
Joined: Sep 2018
Posts: 167
Likes: 17
From: US
I don't know if this applies to US spec bikes, but we had a similar problem while travelling in Europe a few years ago. My 1990 bike has an accessory switch, on the back of the forks, which developed a fault. Repeatedly flicking the switch brought the bike back into life, something I had to do a few times to get us back home. Worth checking if you have a similar switch.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 21,029
Likes: 12,550
From: South Carolina
Do the cheap, simple stuff first...
How old is the battery?
If not too old, make sure it is fully charged, take it to an auto parts store and have them load test it.
While battery is out, clean all battery cable connections, also the connections at the starter solenoid, main breaker and ignition switch.
How old is the battery?
If not too old, make sure it is fully charged, take it to an auto parts store and have them load test it.
While battery is out, clean all battery cable connections, also the connections at the starter solenoid, main breaker and ignition switch.
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Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 15,705
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From: Farmington ,MS
Check the wires going to the coil...I have seen the little nuts loosen, and cause all kinds of issues...
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