Metallic sounding Bang when starting
#11
04-07-2015, 07:21 AM
Outstanding HDF Member
#12
04-07-2015, 07:30 AM
I went through this dilemma a few years back. At this point with the symptoms you describe, it's the compensator kickng back. However, you don't know which. I think it could be either weak battery or compensator, and there's not really a good check to see which it is, and here's why. When the battery's weak, it turns over slowly and the compensator kicks back, like it's designed to do. If the compensator is loose, it'll kick back more often than usual on starting.
Now, I'm a math guy. What's the chances of a compensator coming loose at 200+ ft/lbs torque? What are the chances of the battery being worn out? How old is the battery? When's the last time the compensator was taken out with that engine work being done? Weigh your options and make a first choice. Worst case scenario is you spend twice as much and fix something that's not broken.
Money wise, a new battery at HD is about $100. Autozone, $50. Compensator is a $10 bolt, then $20 of fluid and a $20 gasket. So, either way it's not a big expense. Doing both because you picked the wrong one, eh...
Now, I'm a math guy. What's the chances of a compensator coming loose at 200+ ft/lbs torque? What are the chances of the battery being worn out? How old is the battery? When's the last time the compensator was taken out with that engine work being done? Weigh your options and make a first choice. Worst case scenario is you spend twice as much and fix something that's not broken.
Money wise, a new battery at HD is about $100. Autozone, $50. Compensator is a $10 bolt, then $20 of fluid and a $20 gasket. So, either way it's not a big expense. Doing both because you picked the wrong one, eh...
The battery was installed in the bike in August 2013. not sure how it has been maintained so my next thought is to just replace it. When I do get the noise, it seems as if the bike is slow to turn over and start. Think you convinced me to try the battery next. Worse case, I get a new battery and go from there.
Thanks for all the input.
#13
08-05-2015, 06:07 PM
Metallic sounding Bang when starting
Update. Replaced the battery still having the symptom.
Narrowed it down to starter so last week pull exhaust, oil tank, primary cover then removed starter. Replaced the starter clutch with all ***** clutch put everything back together and all is well. Starts great no bang.
Solution was to replace the bad starter clutch. Hope this helps someone else.
Narrowed it down to starter so last week pull exhaust, oil tank, primary cover then removed starter. Replaced the starter clutch with all ***** clutch put everything back together and all is well. Starts great no bang.
Solution was to replace the bad starter clutch. Hope this helps someone else.
#14
08-05-2015, 10:36 PM
Road Master
Update. Replaced the battery still having the symptom.
Narrowed it down to starter so last week pull exhaust, oil tank, primary cover then removed starter. Replaced the starter clutch with all ***** clutch put everything back together and all is well. Starts great no bang.
Solution was to replace the bad starter clutch. Hope this helps someone else.
Narrowed it down to starter so last week pull exhaust, oil tank, primary cover then removed starter. Replaced the starter clutch with all ***** clutch put everything back together and all is well. Starts great no bang.
Solution was to replace the bad starter clutch. Hope this helps someone else.
#15
08-09-2015, 01:40 PM
#16
08-09-2015, 01:43 PM
Metallic sounding Bang when starting
Same here. I could bump it or roll. Was even thinking of adding compression releases. My bike has the big bore kit. I tried all kinds of things until I finally realized it had to be the starter. Spent the time to replace the sprague clutch and bike always starts right up no noise.
#17
08-09-2015, 01:50 PM
#19
08-10-2015, 11:37 AM
Tourer
Join Date: Feb 2013
Location: Indiana
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I have been having the same issues. Removed compensator, bad spring, replaced unit. Same problem. Replaced battery and checked cables, same problem. It acts like it gets to the top of the compression stroke and hesitates then takes back of after a short pause. About half of the time it makes a terrible grinding noise like the starter kicked out and re-engaged.
#20
08-10-2015, 11:49 AM
I have been having the same issues. Removed compensator, bad spring, replaced unit. Same problem. Replaced battery and checked cables, same problem. It acts like it gets to the top of the compression stroke and hesitates then takes back of after a short pause. About half of the time it makes a terrible grinding noise like the starter kicked out and re-engaged.