Noise when starting bike.
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Intermediate
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 35
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From: Alabama
Noise when starting bike.
I have a 2010 FLHR, every now and then when I start it I have to stop because it makes a terrible noise like something is not engaging properly. Is this something that is normal, I only ask as this is my first Harley...
Road Warrior
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 1,752
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From: Indianapolis, IN
Does it sound like this?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p3vOSHPlp00
Have the compensator in your primary checked.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p3vOSHPlp00
Have the compensator in your primary checked.
Last edited by Ozoneman; Nov 17, 2011 at 10:36 AM.
Advanced
Joined: Jul 2009
Posts: 56
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From: South Carolina
The noise you hear is probably the starter clutch grinding. It's not normal and it will get more and more frequent. I think it is the result of another problem-a weak compensator. A lot of people change to the SE compensator because there is not near as much give in the cranking process and therefore easier on the starter. I have not done that yet but I have replaced two starter clutches (the last being made by All ***** that I have not had any trouble with). But I think I'm just fixing the symptom and not the problem.
Road Warrior
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 1,995
Likes: 2
From: Land of 10,000 lakes
It is unfortunately normal. It also is the starter drive clutch. It is a known weak component of the starter that Harley refuses to address. I am waiting on a new starter as I type. The sound went from that to that with a gear grinding noise to the starter motor spinning without the starter engaging. The weak compensator supposedly is not helping but the starter should be strong enough to start a directly connected motor without spring loading a crank.
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Road Warrior
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 1,995
Likes: 2
From: Land of 10,000 lakes
Does it sound like this?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p3vOSHPlp00
Have the compensator in your primary checked.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p3vOSHPlp00
Have the compensator in your primary checked.
If you are hearing that sound it's only a matter of time before the starter drive is toast.