Softail Slim having issues
Softail Slim having issues
I have a 2013 Slim with 22,000 miles on it. I bought it new. I put thunderheads 2 into 1 exhaust with a power commander V and a k and n style air cleaner. Bike hasn't had a problem. All of a sudden the bike is wanting to die on me. I have to let off then open the throttle to get the engine to respond. There is no for warning. I was getting on the freeway today and the bike cut out but stayed running. I couldn't get it to go. I had to put my flashers on and limp it to the next exit. I waited a few minutes and tried again. It seemed OK so I got back on the freeway. It didn't run as bad but I had to keep giving it throttle and letting off. I just had the bike serviced because of this problem. all fluids changed, spark plugs replaced, new battery and put on the dyno to make sure the map was correct. Everything was perfect. The bike ran perfect and the mechanic couldn't find anything wrong! I'm leaving on a cross country ride next week and I can't take the chance of this happening on the road! Anyone else have this problem?
Advanced
Joined: Jun 2015
Posts: 55
Likes: 0
From: Northern MI
Sounds like a wiring issue. I'd check the ground on the power commander, then all the other wires. I'm not sure if the power commander permanently changes the map or just modifies it while it's connected? Could be as the ground or some other wire is loosing connection on the power commander it's reverting back to the stock map and running lean causing it to want to die? Think about anything you may have done while riding to cause it. Did you hit a bump, use a turn signal to change lanes, applying the brakes, etc.
I agree. I think it's a wiring problem too. I don't think it's the power commander though. I have had it on for almost a year now. I'm leaning toward the ignition wire because it runs close to the pipes and it is not something that happens all the time. There is nothing that I do that causes it to happen. It's random. I just thought maybe someone might have had this problem too and know what the issue is. Or if it is something common with this model. Thank you for the help.
Road Captain
Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 695
Likes: 50
From: South Carolina
Need to isolate the issue. I would start with the PCV. I know alot of people use them. The indy that sold mine to me swore up and down they were the best thing going. Anyway, I had trouble with my rear cylinder shutting off. Atleast that is the best way I can describe what was going on. Took of the PCV and problem went away. It is simple to remove and reinstall. Start there.
Tourer
Joined: Jun 2013
Posts: 321
Likes: 0
From: CA
I have a 2013 Slim with 22,000 miles on it. I bought it new. I put thunderheads 2 into 1 exhaust with a power commander V and a k and n style air cleaner. Bike hasn't had a problem. All of a sudden the bike is wanting to die on me. I have to let off then open the throttle to get the engine to respond. There is no for warning. I was getting on the freeway today and the bike cut out but stayed running. I couldn't get it to go. I had to put my flashers on and limp it to the next exit. I waited a few minutes and tried again. It seemed OK so I got back on the freeway. It didn't run as bad but I had to keep giving it throttle and letting off. I just had the bike serviced because of this problem. all fluids changed, spark plugs replaced, new battery and put on the dyno to make sure the map was correct. Everything was perfect. The bike ran perfect and the mechanic couldn't find anything wrong! I'm leaving on a cross country ride next week and I can't take the chance of this happening on the road! Anyone else have this problem?
Cruiser
Joined: Jan 2013
Posts: 115
Likes: 6
From: Southwest
2013 Slim in my garage and had an issue that sounds exactly like yours. First time it happened, was 70 mph in traffic on i405 south by the airport, scared the crap outta me.
Harley dealer found a loose battery ground, seems I replaced the screw with the wrong size after reassembly. Darn thing would pop loose for a moment and the bike would all but stall.
Harley dealer found a loose battery ground, seems I replaced the screw with the wrong size after reassembly. Darn thing would pop loose for a moment and the bike would all but stall.
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Tourer
Joined: Jun 2013
Posts: 321
Likes: 0
From: CA
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Thank you everyone for your input. As soon as I get it figured out I will be sure to post what the problem was. I am trying to avoid taking it to HD because of the cost but it looks like I might have to if I want to go on this ride. I can't see riding over 5000 miles with it like it is and I'm really looking forward to going. I am supposed to leave next week!
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2011
Posts: 3,255
Likes: 112
From: Florida
Not sure about 2013 models, but my 2002 EFI Fatboy was doing same thing. Turned out to be a pinhole in the fuel line inside the tank. While in there I replaced the filter. Good luck!