98 Softail Backfiring

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May 27, 2009 | 07:51 PM

BikerBabeK

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Stage III

Joined: May 2009

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98 Softail Backfiring

Can anyone help pinpoint what's going on with my 98 Softail. I took it out of winter storage, and I'm having issues with backfiring when I accellerate in 2nd and 3rd gears. I just replaced the spark plug wires and it's a little better, but the problem is still there. Is there a trick to making sure the wires on on correctly? Any other ideas?

May 27, 2009 | 08:19 PM

crazybastid83

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Joined: Oct 2006

Posts: 660

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From: NJ

You probably have to open up the carb, clean it out and replace parts etc. Check the float level, clean it out and buy a "James Gaskets" carb rebuild kit.

Sometimes opening the bowl and cleaning everything out does the trick, it all depends upon what you find when you open it up. It is really easy to do. If you don't have the tools to clean the jets, replace them, they are cheap.

May 27, 2009 | 08:20 PM

crazybastid83

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Joined: Oct 2006

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From: NJ

Using dielectric greas on the plug tip where the wires go on is a good practice, but probably won't help in your case.

May 27, 2009 | 10:11 PM

murd

Road Warrior

Joined: Jul 2008

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From: Haney, British Columbia

Is it possible you are burning bad gas left over from storage?
..just a thought...

May 28, 2009 | 06:16 AM

trigg

2nd Gear

Joined: May 2009

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From: Ont Canada

98 softail backfiring

I had the same problem the gas was old drained it out. Put in high test in it and now it runs good

May 28, 2009 | 08:51 AM

BikerBabeK

Thread Starter

Stage III

Joined: May 2009

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Thanks for Ideas

I'll try putting in new gas. I was burning the reserves from winter storage (though I did add fuel stabalizer prior to storing). If that doesn't help, I may have to get into the Carb and pipes. That will be a learning experience for me

Thanks for the replies.

May 30, 2009 | 09:58 PM

BikerBabeK

Thread Starter

Stage III

Joined: May 2009

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Success

New tank of premium solved the problem. I also got advice on how to better winterize her. Next spring shouldn't be as rough. Thanks for all the suggestions and help. Happy Trails!