09 cold start problem
I thought the fuel filter canister problem was exclusive to the 08' MY and even then it was only on the early build date models. IIRC no units produced after 12/07 or 1/08 (not sure what the date cut off was) should already have come off the line with the updated filter canister.
From a thread I put on EFI portion: I have read several threads about the warm-up for the EFI managed bikes with regards to the bikes running terrible until it fully warmed up. Tonight I think I had an "a-ha!" moment (and you'll probably say "duh, why didn't I think of this myself?" moment in return): When you start an EFI managed bike, the ECM sends a signal to the fuel pump which pressurizes the fuel lines, adjusts the IAC, and other such functions when the ECM goes into the "Cold Start" mapping mode. It will stay in this mode until the ET reads 185 degrees F (may be more or less but forgive me if I'm not 100% accurate on this point; I'd have to dig through six manuals to find the correct temp) or until you TURN THE THROTTLE. Then the TPS sends a signal to the ECM that you are "riding the bike" at which time the mapping changes to the "regular idle" mode (even if it is not altogether warmed up)! Try this by varying your take-off times (without goosing the throttle when warming up) to see if it actually eliminates your cold idle problems. This will be your warm-up period. See? Told you it would be a "a-ha/duh" moment! Hope it works for you.
There is an obvious problem per the amount of people here experiencing this. All I can say is my 09 does not have any issues since the fuel canister was replaced. It starts and idles perfectly since the repair. It also did it (RPM Varience) all the time, not just when cold. Different problem. Point being this is not a problem on all 09 Ultra'a which would lead me to believe the MOCO should have a fix for this sooner than later. I always let me ride run for at least 30 seconds after starting, longer when cold. Good luck and ride safe.
My 09 is doing the same when cold. Dealer checked fuel pressure and it drop fast when engine was shut off. They tested pump, fuel filter and lines inside tank but found no leaks. It also died when they tried to start it when cold. Fuel pressure to low. Is the fuel canister the same as a fuel filter? Calling tech dept. tomorrow for help. That 09 is a sweet ride.
I think what you describe is normal. Unless it is dying. My 08 starts and idles high for a few seconds and then settles down. Never been a problem.
i remember going in to harley for an inspection, as a recall through harley for the fuel system inside of the tank. it was a filter issue if i remember right. mine was okay, and didn't need replacement. it was neat that they sent me a postcard mentioning a recall on the 08's. hope you get your 09 figured out. they sure seem to be a sweet ride from what i understand, and have read here in the forum.


