new to HD, my FLSTFB (3000 mi) makes a strange noise if I accelerate in too high of a gear...yes, I know...dont do it. OK fine. But Im curious about the noise anyway, Id like to understand the bike better. Lets say I have to stop quick with no time to downshift and immediately re-accelerate ( I said ok...I wont do it anymore) I hear a strange metallic noise that sounds a little like a metal cable being cut under tension...what is this? Any one understand what Im talking about?

 

Sounds like you are experiencing what is commonly known as "pinging". This is the sound of pre-ignition/detonation. If carried to extremes it can seriously damage the valve train and if under heavy load and continued throttle, can burn a hole in pistons! It is a condition casued by self-ignition of the "end-gases" of the fuel/air-mix in the combustion chambers. Obviously, it can be extremely damaging if you fail to back off the throttle and downshift.
Make certain that you only use hi-test 91-93 octane fuel and USE YOUR SHIFT LEVER!

 

Donny Peterson once said the worst thing you can do to the Harley tranny is accelerate in too high of a gear. It puts extreme pressure on it and will kill it faster than anything else. Try learning how to downshift before cracking the throttle.

 

You right! Don't do it!

 

yes ping and mine did that for years until i got a new fuel filter. my bike also sat for a year before it was sold. when i changed the filter you could not blow air threw it. it now runs smoother and faster than when it was new

 

Its the sound of your transmission self destructing ...... I'm not sure if its fun to listen to but if you can afford it ....

 

I like destruction n' all but not on my dime. Its only happened twice, but I suppose thats enough...strange noise tho, very science fiction-warpy sound. Not engine pinging.

Must-be-more-careful

thanks