Hey Folks,
New guy here and to the Harley world. Just bought a 98 Ultra with EFI and absolutely love it! But I'm have a issue...
It has slow throttle response, surges under load and no power climbing hills. Don't get me wrong, it runs pretty good but I noticed these things on a ride last weekend cruising the mountains here in Oregon.
I'm pretty sure it's running lean, (the plugs are burning white).
Bike has V&H exhaust and stock air filter, 53k miles.
I have no history of the bike.

Any suggestions on where to start looking?

Thanks

 

I had a 1996 Ultra, loved it..solid motor but your going to need a high flow A/C, better flowing mufflers, Power Comander 5, and a torque cam to really enjoy it.

 

you would do well to find someone who is good with the magnetti-marelli EFI ( 1995~2002 EFI models) it can be a mess.

it is entirely possible that it is running lean...or rich - the only way to know for sure is with proper test equipment and some know-how.


Mike

 

I agree with having the EFI system checked. I understand it's harder to setup than the new system is.

 

+1 Even Bone Stock shouldn't have the problems you are having, definitely sounds like EFI to me ..

 

This. My father's 1997 Road King EFI had to be "tuned" once he changed the intake and exhaust. Changed the exhaust again a few years later and the bike barely ran...needed another tune. A dealer or indy shop should be able to help figure out what's going on and what needs to be done. Sure, upgraded cams and all that jazz will give you a lot more torque, but your current issue seems to be that you just want the thing to run as it should.

Welcome to the fold!

 

Welcome aboard!!!

I am in agreement with most of those already posted. Get a proper tune from a wrench that is reputable and famliar with your EFI system.

Also make sure you check and or replace regular maintenance items such as plugs, air filter, fuel filter, brake pads, fluids, etc. That way you KNOW everything is up to par.

Enjoy your new ride and keep the shiny side up!

 

The Moron/Mirrelli EFI is a fickle bitch for sure, but... as long as you have a competent tech that knows how to tune them, they work fine. If you want to improve the response and power on your bike, do the air cleaner/pipes/tuner as others have listed. But, keep in mind that there are only a couple air cleaner options and that all the fancy new stuff doesn't work. same-same with the tuner. An older Power Commander or an obsolete Screaming Eagle tunerwould be the best options IMHO.

Thing is, you bought an old Buick. Don't expect it to run like a new caddy SRT. If it "runs pretty good" and you are enjoying it, take it in for a service, ask the tech if they are fluent in M/M EFI, have them adjust it, and just enjoy the ride. HTH!

 

If you cant find a shop that can diagnose and repair / maintain the FI. There are a lot of threads in the EVO section and guys that can help you as well on this site.

Also for the 96, you do have the option to remove the FI and install a carb, lots of threads and experienced folks with that in the EVO section as well.

 

Find yourself a local "Indy" that you can trust and that also knows his stuff.If you arnt doing the work yourself best to have a pro.Reason i say indy is The dealer will charge you alot and its nice to talk direct with the guy doing the work...Might even let you watch (and learn)!!
Welcome to the forum..Good Luck!!! Tim..