Starting issues
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2nd Gear
Joined: May 2016
Posts: 6
Likes: 0
From: Ohio
Starting issues
I just bought my first Harley a couple of weeks ago. Its a 1998 Sportster, it ran when I went to look at it. When I got it home it ran also. A few days later I went to start it and it just cranks and cranks and never fires. I checked for spark and im getting nothing. I changed the plugs, wires and battery and still nothing. The only time it does start is when I put the battery on a charger for a couple of minutes. When it does start it runs great. Its driving me crazy! 
Does anyone have any ideas as to what to check next?
Thanks in advance.
Does anyone have any ideas as to what to check next?
Thanks in advance.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 25,310
Likes: 2,446
From: Eastern NE
So...you don't have spark, but the bike starts when you zip some charge into the battery...?? Did you go through all the ignition wiring/harnesses/connectors. Seems like there could be something awry w/the ignition (wiring and/or switch)...
When it runs, does it run for a bit & kill, or you shut off and then it doesn't restart?
When it runs, does it run for a bit & kill, or you shut off and then it doesn't restart?
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Thread Starter
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2nd Gear
Joined: May 2016
Posts: 6
Likes: 0
From: Ohio
Correct, with just a little charge it fires right up. It does not cut out at all, it will start back up when I shut it off, but if f it sits for awhile (a few hours) it will not start. I have checked the switch and coil with a multimeter and there is not an issue with either. When checking the wiring/harnesses/connectors what should I be looking for?
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Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Jul 2014
Posts: 5,649
Likes: 430
From: MASS_hole
have the battery "load test" It'll determine if an accessory is causing a drain if there is any
stealership SHOULD perform this service free of charge. Most drive in auto oil and service shops do also
stealership SHOULD perform this service free of charge. Most drive in auto oil and service shops do also
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Jul 2011
Posts: 2,824
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From: Street, Md.
Sorry shouldn't have jumped to conclusions. If you have checked all connections as well then I agree there is a possible slow,draw on battery. Just make sure that you double checked all your connections. Especially battery could be something simple as that?