Intermittent Engine Stall, Shutdown, Cutoff
Stage III
Joined: Jul 2015
Posts: 3
Likes: 0
From: Sanford, Florida
Stalling issue...
Im trying to help out my Dad. He owns a 1989 Harley FLHTC. It is stalling when making right turns. We can replicate the problem on a lift at home. It doesnt matter if the bike is cold or hot; sometimes the handlebars turn all the way right before it happens, and sometimes just a fraction. We've checked all the wiring harnesses and connectors and nothing seems to make a difference.
Suggestions? (Beyond the obvious, NASCAR edition!)
Suggestions? (Beyond the obvious, NASCAR edition!)
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 19,922
Likes: 8,027
From: poway
Im trying to help out my Dad. He owns a 1989 Harley FLHTC. It is stalling when making right turns. We can replicate the problem on a lift at home. It doesnt matter if the bike is cold or hot; sometimes the handlebars turn all the way right before it happens, and sometimes just a fraction. We've checked all the wiring harnesses and connectors and nothing seems to make a difference.
Suggestions? (Beyond the obvious, NASCAR edition!)
Suggestions? (Beyond the obvious, NASCAR edition!)
2nd Gear
Joined: Apr 2020
Posts: 6
Likes: 1
From: South East P.A.
I'm having this intermittent stalling problem as well. No rhyme no reason I can think of. I'll replace the engine temp sensor and see if that fixes it. Doing the cheap and easy stuff first. There is an issue with EFI bikes getting pin holes in the fuel lines inside the tank. That will be the next thing I investigate.
Road Master
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 819
Likes: 21
From: Johnson City, TN
I'm having this intermittent stalling problem as well. No rhyme no reason I can think of. I'll replace the engine temp sensor and see if that fixes it. Doing the cheap and easy stuff first. There is an issue with EFI bikes getting pin holes in the fuel lines inside the tank. That will be the next thing I investigate.
1st Gear
Joined: May 2020
Posts: 5
Likes: 0
From: CA
Intermittent Engine Stall, Shutdown, Cutoff
I read with interest the initial post and threaded replies. Thank you for the troubleshooting lists.
I recently acquired a 2010 FLSTFBLo (Fat Boy Lo) with low miles (< 13K). It was operating well for about 2 weeks then suddenly cut out on me and would not restart.
This happened while motoring in fist gear at a low speed into my apartment complex, after about a 40 minute short ride.
It kinda sputtered, unresponsive to throttle and clutched, and died, sounding like it had no gas, but plenty in the tank.
I had been riding the bike every 2-3 days, short trips, less than than 50mph for the prior 2 weeks.
It always started easily, accelerated well, without vibration or misfire. No over revving.
All electrical equipment turns on lights, blinkers, brake, horn. Seems to have plenty of battery charge, and I have not had to charge it yet.
Inspection has not revealed any loose connections or leaks. Temp gauge shows 150 degrees. Doesn't seem that hot after only 30-60 min of use. No leaks.
I usually hear the fuel pump chime in for the EFI when I initially turn on ignition and set to run. Engine turns, but doesn't fire-up now.
The Harley Owners manual cites several trouble shooting issues, one of which could be a blown fuse.
I have located the fuse box under the seat, cant identify a blown fuse.
I'm new to street bike riding and EFI's. I've had dirt bikes with carbs. I have rarely fouled plugs before, and that was with intense rpms, not like the docile use I have had here.
I've been riding very conservatively, but effectively. Never missed a shift and never stalled with starts and stops.
This bike does have a performance mapping add-on from Dyna Jet, Power Commander Performance Chip, from the previous owner I'm told, but I don't have any paperwork on it.
Any thoughts on where to look first, before I take it into Harley to diagnose?
Interested if this has happened to any other harley fat boy softail owners.
I recently acquired a 2010 FLSTFBLo (Fat Boy Lo) with low miles (< 13K). It was operating well for about 2 weeks then suddenly cut out on me and would not restart.
This happened while motoring in fist gear at a low speed into my apartment complex, after about a 40 minute short ride.
It kinda sputtered, unresponsive to throttle and clutched, and died, sounding like it had no gas, but plenty in the tank.
I had been riding the bike every 2-3 days, short trips, less than than 50mph for the prior 2 weeks.
It always started easily, accelerated well, without vibration or misfire. No over revving.
All electrical equipment turns on lights, blinkers, brake, horn. Seems to have plenty of battery charge, and I have not had to charge it yet.
Inspection has not revealed any loose connections or leaks. Temp gauge shows 150 degrees. Doesn't seem that hot after only 30-60 min of use. No leaks.
I usually hear the fuel pump chime in for the EFI when I initially turn on ignition and set to run. Engine turns, but doesn't fire-up now.
The Harley Owners manual cites several trouble shooting issues, one of which could be a blown fuse.
I have located the fuse box under the seat, cant identify a blown fuse.
I'm new to street bike riding and EFI's. I've had dirt bikes with carbs. I have rarely fouled plugs before, and that was with intense rpms, not like the docile use I have had here.
I've been riding very conservatively, but effectively. Never missed a shift and never stalled with starts and stops.
This bike does have a performance mapping add-on from Dyna Jet, Power Commander Performance Chip, from the previous owner I'm told, but I don't have any paperwork on it.
Any thoughts on where to look first, before I take it into Harley to diagnose?
Interested if this has happened to any other harley fat boy softail owners.
Road Master
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 819
Likes: 21
From: Johnson City, TN
I read with interest the initial post and threaded replies. Thank you for the troubleshooting lists.
I recently acquired a 2010 FLSTFBLo (Fat Boy Lo) with low miles (< 13K). It was operating well for about 2 weeks then suddenly cut out on me and would not restart.
This happened while motoring in fist gear at a low speed into my apartment complex, after about a 40 minute short ride.
It kinda sputtered, unresponsive to throttle and clutched, and died, sounding like it had no gas, but plenty in the tank.
I had been riding the bike every 2-3 days, short trips, less than than 50mph for the prior 2 weeks.
It always started easily, accelerated well, without vibration or misfire. No over revving.
All electrical equipment turns on lights, blinkers, brake, horn. Seems to have plenty of battery charge, and I have not had to charge it yet.
Inspection has not revealed any loose connections or leaks. Temp gauge shows 150 degrees. Doesn't seem that hot after only 30-60 min of use. No leaks.
I usually hear the fuel pump chime in for the EFI when I initially turn on ignition and set to run. Engine turns, but doesn't fire-up now.
The Harley Owners manual cites several trouble shooting issues, one of which could be a blown fuse.
I have located the fuse box under the seat, cant identify a blown fuse.
I'm new to street bike riding and EFI's. I've had dirt bikes with carbs. I have rarely fouled plugs before, and that was with intense rpms, not like the docile use I have had here.
I've been riding very conservatively, but effectively. Never missed a shift and never stalled with starts and stops.
This bike does have a performance mapping add-on from Dyna Jet, Power Commander Performance Chip, from the previous owner I'm told, but I don't have any paperwork on it.
Any thoughts on where to look first, before I take it into Harley to diagnose?
Interested if this has happened to any other harley fat boy softail owners.
I recently acquired a 2010 FLSTFBLo (Fat Boy Lo) with low miles (< 13K). It was operating well for about 2 weeks then suddenly cut out on me and would not restart.
This happened while motoring in fist gear at a low speed into my apartment complex, after about a 40 minute short ride.
It kinda sputtered, unresponsive to throttle and clutched, and died, sounding like it had no gas, but plenty in the tank.
I had been riding the bike every 2-3 days, short trips, less than than 50mph for the prior 2 weeks.
It always started easily, accelerated well, without vibration or misfire. No over revving.
All electrical equipment turns on lights, blinkers, brake, horn. Seems to have plenty of battery charge, and I have not had to charge it yet.
Inspection has not revealed any loose connections or leaks. Temp gauge shows 150 degrees. Doesn't seem that hot after only 30-60 min of use. No leaks.
I usually hear the fuel pump chime in for the EFI when I initially turn on ignition and set to run. Engine turns, but doesn't fire-up now.
The Harley Owners manual cites several trouble shooting issues, one of which could be a blown fuse.
I have located the fuse box under the seat, cant identify a blown fuse.
I'm new to street bike riding and EFI's. I've had dirt bikes with carbs. I have rarely fouled plugs before, and that was with intense rpms, not like the docile use I have had here.
I've been riding very conservatively, but effectively. Never missed a shift and never stalled with starts and stops.
This bike does have a performance mapping add-on from Dyna Jet, Power Commander Performance Chip, from the previous owner I'm told, but I don't have any paperwork on it.
Any thoughts on where to look first, before I take it into Harley to diagnose?
Interested if this has happened to any other harley fat boy softail owners.
2nd Gear
Joined: Apr 2020
Posts: 6
Likes: 1
From: South East P.A.
Replaced the engine temp sensor yesterday but still had the issue. Today I disconnected the battery and while doing so I noticed the terminal connections were not very tight. Reconnected the battery properly and rode all day today without an issue. The bike even seemed to be running better than ever. I did notice some differences in the idle at different times but it did not seem like it wanted to stall. Maybe resetting the computer did the trick? We shall see.
Road Master
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 819
Likes: 21
From: Johnson City, TN
Replaced the engine temp sensor yesterday but still had the issue. Today I disconnected the battery and while doing so I noticed the terminal connections were not very tight. Reconnected the battery properly and rode all day today without an issue. The bike even seemed to be running better than ever. I did notice some differences in the idle at different times but it did not seem like it wanted to stall. Maybe resetting the computer did the trick? We shall see.
HD Forum Stories
The Best of Harley-Davidson for Lifelong Riders
7 Surprising Harley-Davidson Products that Are Not Motorcycles
Verdad Gallardo
8 Best Harley-Davidson Motorcycles Ever
Pouria Savadkouei
10 Worst Harley-Davidson Motorcycles Ever
Pouria Savadkouei
Killer Custom's Jail Break Is The Breakout That Refused to Blend In
Verdad Gallardo
Crazy Bunderbike Build Looks Amazing, But Is It Impossible to Ride?
Verdad Gallardo
Harley-Davidson Reveals Super Cool Cafe Racer Concept
Verdad Gallardo
Engraved Rebellion: Inside Bundnerbike's Glam Rock II
Verdad Gallardo
10 Motorcycles You Should Never Buy
Joe Kucinski
10 Things Harley-Davidson Needs to Fix in 2026
Verdad Gallardo
Road Master
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 819
Likes: 21
From: Johnson City, TN
If you're sure you have gas in it, then I would try the battery. I had a 2006 that had 1700 miles on it and the stator was bad. It did the same thing you are describing because it drained the battery. Try a new battery or charge the one you have. It might turn over, but doesn't have the power to start it. Also, after charging the battery, turn the switch on and see if the fuel pump primes. That's a fairly new bike and unless it has set outside, shouldn't have many issues.