Help! Softail issue!
Big Kahuna HDF Member
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 23,881
Likes: 34
From: USA
I would try:
1. the main system relay and check the plugs where it installs in the fuse box for corrosion.
2.crank position and engine temperature sensors.
3. Fuel tank vent
4. fuel pump & hose inside tank.
1. the main system relay and check the plugs where it installs in the fuse box for corrosion.
2.crank position and engine temperature sensors.
3. Fuel tank vent
4. fuel pump & hose inside tank.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 19,982
Likes: 6,110
From: Florida
About 30 years ago, I had a Goldwing that had the exact same problem,but it would ONLY do it when hitting highway speeds. Ran like a raped ape with a bent banana,then started cutting out cylinders, then died. Would start again after a while. Honda daler replaced everything under warranty but the motor;no luck. I found the problem strictly by accident. Turned out to be a clogged gas cap vent. Ran perfect after that.
Tourer
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 457
Likes: 0
From: Stanley, NC
Just to add what Dickey said, because maybe the OP didn't get it the first time around...doesn't matter how much fuel is in the tank if vapor lock is the problem. Don't even have to buy a new cap, just take the cap off when the problem happens and see if the bike will start and run normally - if it does then you have a fuel vent problem..... good luck! 
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 20,616
Likes: 4,440
From: anacoco, la
ride it hard until it dies then immediately take it to the dealer? if it won't restart until it cools overnight, that should give them plenty of time to troubleshoot.
my question is this, if it's done it since new, and left you stranded several times, why didn't you lemon law it and get a different bike?
my question is this, if it's done it since new, and left you stranded several times, why didn't you lemon law it and get a different bike?
Road Warrior
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 1,412
Likes: 2
From: Ma
Thing that comes to my mind is a faulty head temp sensor. This could explain why the problem only appears at operating temp. Could also explain why it occured before as well as after the 95.
What have you done with your fuel management before & after the 95?
What have you done with your fuel management before & after the 95?
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 7,476
Likes: 5
From: Republic of Texas
Eliminate fuel cap later. I would change crank sensor first. Ride bike till it shuts down and find out if you are getting fire to the plugs. Eliminate your problems one at a time. You have to make a list of what it could be and eliminate them with a positive test when the problem occurs. Sucks but if you are diligent you will find it. I don't like throwing new parts at an unknown problem. That can get wasteful, expensive, and cloud the issue.
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Road Warrior
Joined: Jul 2009
Posts: 1,745
Likes: 1
From: A house.
Vapor lock is pretty rare on a fuel injected engine, possible, but rare. Since the fuel level can be anywhere when it cuts out, the fuel cap or vapor lock is not the issue.
You have aftermarket pipes and air cleaner; have you had the stage 1 download to your ECM?
My money is on the CPS or a defective ECM, both of which can suffer heat related malfunctions. They both play a part in injector and spark timing. If you're running any type of fuel management, bypass it the next time it cuts out to see if you can restart and run the engine. If so, you'll know it's the cause of your troubles. Also, carry a can of Chill-It Circuit Freezer Spray or similar to cool the CPS and try to restart, then the ECM and try to restart.
Somebody was throwing darts by rebuilding your top end and replacing injectors, neither address the symptoms you describe.
You have aftermarket pipes and air cleaner; have you had the stage 1 download to your ECM?
My money is on the CPS or a defective ECM, both of which can suffer heat related malfunctions. They both play a part in injector and spark timing. If you're running any type of fuel management, bypass it the next time it cuts out to see if you can restart and run the engine. If so, you'll know it's the cause of your troubles. Also, carry a can of Chill-It Circuit Freezer Spray or similar to cool the CPS and try to restart, then the ECM and try to restart.
Somebody was throwing darts by rebuilding your top end and replacing injectors, neither address the symptoms you describe.
Last edited by clicker01; Jul 2, 2011 at 04:47 AM. Reason: Another thought...
