Having a hard time starting after switching

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Aug 10, 2023 | 08:58 AM

Medevack1

Thread Starter

Road Master

Joined: Jun 2022

Posts: 762

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From: Winston Salem NC

Having a hard time starting after switching

I have a 2008 RK with the 103 DNA Aftermarket full pipes, air intake and stage 1, when I got the bike back in 2022 i was a Rookie and didn't know anything about the bike or Harleys in general so all I put in it was regular 87 octane fuel ( I know I found out later I should have been running the 94 high octane) so before it was starting as soon as the motor turned and now that I'm running high octane it takes several seconds and sometimes it will turn until it finally starts. i just ordered new sparkplugs and see if that will help.
Anyone have any suggestions please feel free to help.

Aug 11, 2023 | 01:28 AM

Ron750

Seasoned HDF Member

Joined: Jan 2011

Posts: 28,842

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From: Wisconsin, USA

I think switching to premium, may be a red herring. Check your battery connections. Make sure they’re clean and tight at the battery and at the other end.

Aug 11, 2023 | 07:12 AM

Spartanden

Seasoned HDF Member

Joined: Apr 2008

Posts: 23,399

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From: Spartan Country, Michigan

How does it run after it starts? Have you run more than a tank of premium? You might give it a chance to clear out all the old fuel. And maybe check fuel filter too.....

Aug 11, 2023 | 07:49 AM

NorthWestern

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Joined: Apr 2016

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From: Inland NW

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ron750

I think switching to premium, may be a red herring. Check your battery connections. Make sure they’re clean and tight at the battery and at the other end.

Agreed, I would focus on something else, this is a coincidence

Plugs and wires is a great start, but the battery as mentioned above, along with the cables is another thing to check. Cranking speed can degrade gradually without you noticing.