Starting Problem
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Stage II
Joined: Dec 2013
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
From: Yorktown, Texas
Starting Problem
Just bought a used, but nice, 1996 FXSTC. When it is cold it does not want to start. You can shoot starter fluid in and it will start, but when it does, it wants to backfire and it will idle rough for a few minutes. Once warm, seems to be fine. HATE starting fluid. Can't be good to use it constantly. Where should I start. I ordered a new battery, didn't know if this could cause the problem or not, due to not enough spark. Could it be the plugs, not firing good? Thanks Mike
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2011
Posts: 3,255
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From: Florida
Just bought a used, but nice, 1996 FXSTC. When it is cold it does not want to start. You can shoot starter fluid in and it will start, but when it does, it wants to backfire and it will idle rough for a few minutes. Once warm, seems to be fine. HATE starting fluid. Can't be good to use it constantly. Where should I start. I ordered a new battery, didn't know if this could cause the problem or not, due to not enough spark. Could it be the plugs, not firing good? Thanks Mike
Road Warrior
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 1,510
Likes: 23
From: Connecticut
To add to what seniorsuperglide mentioned in the post above, check out the enrichener **** and cable. Sometimes the **** "slides back in" when you pull it out (it can be adjusted to stay out, but you have to do it the right way). Or... the cable itself may be stretched or not properly activating what it's supposed to at the carb end.
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Feb 2009
Posts: 5,132
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From: Garland, TX
Does it have aftermarket exhaust or an aftermarket air intake? If so and if the jets in the carb are stock, it could need a carb rejet. Or, if it has sat for a long time, the carb or fuel lines could be dirty/gummed up.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 11,232
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From: Lake Seminole
Try this - pull the enricher **** all the way out (make sure it stays all the way out). Give the throttle 3 good twists. Hit the starter button with one hand and work the throttle with the other. When she starts, grab the enriched **** and adjust accordingly.
Hope this helps.
Hope this helps.
Last edited by bikenut1957; Dec 8, 2013 at 11:33 PM.
Tourer
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 328
Likes: 2
From: IBEW Local 94
Carbs sometimes need to be adjusted slightly for cold weather operation. That may be why you need the starter fluid. It's running a little lean. Try to richen the air/fuel mixture up (just a little bit more fuel) to see if that helps before you start tearing into everything.
Last edited by Ratbike_Mike; Dec 9, 2013 at 09:02 AM.
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Stage II
Joined: Dec 2013
Posts: 2
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From: Yorktown, Texas
Thanks to all of you. It gives me a place to start and try. By the way I'm a 62 year old Vietnam vet that is pretty much a recluse, so you allowing me ask for your help anonymously helps out. Thanks
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Joined: Jan 2008
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From: Republic of Texas
My latest and greatest method to start my 98 carbed Wideglide. Open fuel ****. Count to three. Turn on key ---wait till needles settle. Flip the run switch to run. Three good twist of the wick. Pull out the enrichener ****. Pull in clutch and hit starter button. Engine either catches or doesn't fairly quickly. Let off starter button if it doesn't catch. Twist wick twice more. Check to make sure enrichener **** is still all the way pulled out. Pull in clutch---hit starter. Engine always catches second time. Ease clutch out and hold enrichner **** out for a few minutes. Push enrichener **** in and get ready to ride.
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