Driving down the road the other day, 75mph, when the engine cut out completely for about a second then started back up.

All electrics went out - radio, lights, everything. Almost like the ignition switch was shut off then turned on again. Checked the codes when I got home - nadda, none, zero, zilch. Took a few shorter test rides, same thing: everything out, started again, no codes.

Recently rebuilt the top end (fixed the base gasket leak) and thought maybe I got a wire caught in the tank somewhere (happened to me before). Pulled the tank and don't see any bare wire.

Getting ready to buzz out the harnesses, but does this sound like the ignition switch problem that is known to occur with these beasts (98 Ultra, 66K miles)?

 

Almost exactly what happened to my 1995 FLHTP.

I found out at the dealership that there was an open recall on my bike and they had to put the new switch in for free.

Register your VIN @ Harley-Davidson.com and you'll find out if yours had the open recall as well.

 

Thanks for the tip!

Registered ... it's a closed recall. I guess that means it was done once.

For a bit less than $100, it's worth it to just replace it and save a bunch of additional troubleshooting. After I buzz out the harnesses.

 

Sometimes, they just need to be cleaned. There was a recent thread on how to do it.

 

That was my thread. I've cleaned them on two bikes now after both stranded me. Well only one stranded me, the other one did what yours is doing.

https://www.hdforums.com/forum/evo-c...ix-inside.html

 

So I took it out, and this one looks nothing like what I've seen elsewhere.

Got one of the pins out, but no visible ring clip anywhere. Photos attached.

Might this be the replacement part (-93B vs -93A), and how would I tell? No part numbers stamped on it anywhere.

 

Is this a Dyna with the key on the side?

 

Nope - 98 Ultra, key on the tree.

 

Ahh...mine is on the console and is totally different and easy to R&R, one snap ring and it comes apart.

If you can't disassemble yours to the contact points, I'm afraid you might be out of luck trying to refurb it. I'm sure the HD dealer can order one for you to match your key.

 

Upon a second look on a computer vs phone, it looks like the contacts are on the bottom of that cylinder which makes sense, that's where the wires are. Can you remove that cylinder? That old grease you see is what was coating my contacts and causing the problem so if you can clean that out and shine up the contact you might be in luck.

If you can't get the cylinder out, you might be able to clean out the old grease with electrical cleaner and some picks.

If you are worried, you can make a jumper easily enough so this problem will never strand you again. You'll figure out how if you study the wiring a bit.

It's too easy....that's why I now always lock my fork as the ignition lock is only a 1 minute deterrence.