Hi got my 81 ironhead not to long ago fixed the intake leak runs well except for cruising. The bike starts right up and idles great when you take off its good going slow but when you roll on the throttle for about 1/4 to half throttle its stutters and feels like its running out of gas. If you keep rpms high it takes off great once you get past that point and WOT is fine the bike does it so bad that I cant ride it. cleaned the carb has 160 main and a 70 slow jet. mixture screw 1 and a half turns out tried it a few ways and didn't change much. adjusted the float hight no change. going to adjust valves and check coil and wires. does anyone know the specs for coil and wires and any ideas what might be wrong with the bike thanks.

 

Electronic ignition or points system ?

Regardless, sounds like you have a problem in your ignition system. My 1st guess is your timing is off, most likely retarded. Crawl thru your entire ignition system & verify things like:

• plugs & wires are solid
• advance mechanism is working right
• (if points) points are in good shape & gapped probably on BOTH lobes. Replace if questionable.
• timing is spot on & verified with a timing light

Do NOT take any short cuts with your ignition system....... otherwise you'll be chasing smoke indefinitely.

I'm not suspecting this is an issue but, valve tappet adjustment should also be done, so you know it's done right. Don't assume the previous owner is as meticulous as you.

 

The bike has a electronic ignition thanks for the help ill check what you said

 

Does it have the original electronic ignition? Or an after market unit like Crane Hi-4. Ultima, Dyna, etc. If you are uncertain post a pic of whatever is behind the round timing cover on the cam cover.

 

here is the pic I think its stock it was set at full advanced it couldn't go any more that direction. where sould it be to static time it before I get a light.

 

 

The Factory Service Manual 99484-85 is the only source if information about that ignition system. You can buy this manual from any of the usual sources as long as you quote the part number - local HD shop, local indie motorcycle shop, eBay, Google, J&P Cycles, etc.

For static timing, set the sensor plate so that the screws are centered in the slots. Snug down the screws. Engine can then be started.

The front cylinder advance timing mark is the single dot.