Pulling main fuse same as disconnecting the negative terminal?
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Cruiser
Joined: Jun 2015
Posts: 135
Likes: 32
From: USA
Pulling main fuse same as disconnecting the negative terminal?
I've been adding some accesory lighting to the bike. Can I just pull the main fuse instead of disconnecting the battery? Any major differences?
Last edited by tlminh; Sep 19, 2016 at 08:46 PM. Reason: Spelling errors
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Jul 2011
Posts: 27,096
Likes: 4,673
From: Frozelandia, Minnysota
Make sure nobody made any modifications if you got the bike used, seen some strange wiring done. Shouldn't be an issue, but remember the big hot wire to the starter is always hot, not fused. And finally, check connections with a voltmeter just to be sure before touching them with anything else, that's saved me some embarrassment and damage several times on various electrical things that weren't what they were supposed to be.
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2014
Posts: 2,717
Likes: 273
From: Minnesota
I'm pretty sure the manual tells us to disconnect the battery if your going to check the air in the tires!
Stellar HDF Member
Joined: Mar 2011
Posts: 3,482
Likes: 631
From: NorCal Rocklin
There is a potential that pulling the fuse will create an arc while pulling it. Same goes when you disconnect the plug from a socket. I would just disconnect the battery FFS, dont be lazy and find out you become an electrical path and die.
Road Master
Joined: Apr 2014
Posts: 841
Likes: 58
From: Yakima
You'll still have power up to the main fuse. Safest way to go is disconnect the negative on the battery.
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Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 21,708
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From: Driftless Area
I have a nice burnt divot in my wedding ring just from reaching in by my disconnected Shovelhead battery. Not much room in there.
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Road Warrior
Joined: Aug 2016
Posts: 1,877
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From: Yuba City, Ca.
I had to remove the fairing cap on my bike and the first thing the manual states is, "Pull the Maxi fuse". Good grief.
Extreme HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 13,023
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From: Just Outside Chicago
OUCH!!!! Hope you dint spill your beer........
