Neutral Light
Thread Starter
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Novice
Joined: Sep 2023
Posts: 23
Likes: 8
From: Florida
Neutral Light
The neutral light on new to me 2009 Nightster does not work. I already knew about it when I bought the bike a few weeks ago. Seller mentioned that is is not the bulb but a switch that does not cost very much.
Is this a simple fix? I am handy with tools but am not sure if it is a straight forward fix. I did watch some videos (not of this specific model) and they all seemed to involve taking out headers, belts etc.,
Is this a simple and straight forward replacement?
thanks
Is this a simple fix? I am handy with tools but am not sure if it is a straight forward fix. I did watch some videos (not of this specific model) and they all seemed to involve taking out headers, belts etc.,
Is this a simple and straight forward replacement?
thanks
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2017
Posts: 12,254
Likes: 4,946
From: England
The neutral switch on the Sportster is just behind the front final drive belt pulley.
The FSM calls for the pulley to be removed they call for the rear exhaust off as well.
Are you having to start the bike with the clutch pulled in?
The FSM calls for the pulley to be removed they call for the rear exhaust off as well.
Are you having to start the bike with the clutch pulled in?
Road Warrior
Joined: May 2017
Posts: 1,966
Likes: 1,582
From: Scottish Highlands.
2007 - 2022 Sportster models don't have bulbs as warning lights, they are LED's.
It could be that the switch has failed or the the LED has failed due to water ingression.
Here is a YouTube video that may help.
It could be that the switch has failed or the the LED has failed due to water ingression.
Here is a YouTube video that may help.
Thread Starter
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Novice
Joined: Sep 2023
Posts: 23
Likes: 8
From: Florida
Thanks for the guidance everyone. I dont feel comfortable (yet) as it looks like have to remove quite a few stuff to replace the switch. Will try and get used to riding without the neutral light for now.
hopefully I will be able to replace this on my own later on or have it done by a mechanic .
hopefully I will be able to replace this on my own later on or have it done by a mechanic .
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Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2017
Posts: 12,254
Likes: 4,946
From: England
First you need to diagnose if it is the switch or the wire that goes to it. Do that simple test mentioned. Don't just assume else it could cost you a couple of hours in labour for nothing.
I can't remember if the cover can be removed leaving the exhaust in place.
I can't remember if the cover can be removed leaving the exhaust in place.
Last edited by Andy from Sandy; Sep 22, 2023 at 10:21 AM.
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Thread Starter
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Novice
Joined: Sep 2023
Posts: 23
Likes: 8
From: Florida
First you need to diagnose if it is the switch or the wire that goes to it. Do that simple test mentioned. Don't just assume else it could cost you a couple of hours in labour for nothing.
I can't remember if the cover can be removed leaving the exhaust in place.
I can't remember if the cover can be removed leaving the exhaust in place.
I also have aftermarket exhausts so I think I may have to take the exhausts out also if I have to replace the switch based on what I am learning...
Grand HDF Member
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 3,842
Likes: 502
From: Northern WV
I've been following as the neutral light on my "new to me" 2008 wasn't functioning either. But after riding a bit it starts working. Start up a couple days later and it doesn't work but again after riding a few miles or so it starts functioning again.