1985 FLHT Ignition problem??
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6th Gear
Joined: Sep 2013
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From: Penna
1985 FLHT Ignition problem??
I just bought a 85 FLHT . Is there a problem with the ignition switch I should know about? When I go to start it it's completely dead no lights, horn, nothing. Where should I start looking for the problem? New battery, all connections are clean and tight.
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Joined: Sep 2010
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From: Phoenix '53, '88, '09 Big Twins
IF high watt bulbs are used, the contacts in the ign switch can burn out, and it needs replaced. This can be expensive.
They can just burn out ( arcing causes pitting and poor contact which in turn causes more arcing).
try wiggling the switch when the bike is dead.
or try wiggling it when the bike is idling, see if it dies.
there is also a circuit breaker on your bike- they get weak, replace that with a 40 or 50 amp breaker- that's cheap and easy.
you can test that with a trouble light when you have a problem...if you have voltage before the circuit breaker, but not after then there's the problem.
so the water is flowing in the pipe to the valve ( circuit breaker) if you have water on the other side of the valve, then you know it is open, if not it is closed.
same procedure with every part...if you have power to the ignition switch, but none coming out of it then there is the problem.
all of this needs a good known battery and cables, in addition there should be a ground strap from the inner primary case by the tranny to the frame.
Mike
Last edited by mkguitar; Mar 29, 2014 at 11:26 AM.
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Joined: Apr 2011
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From: Greenfield, MN
I also have a 1985 FLHTC that had the exact same problem. It ended up being the positive cable from the battery to the starter solinoid. The lug at the solinoid end stress cracked but the heat shrink made it look like it was connected. That part is no longer available from HD so I re-soldered a new lug on it and its still working fine today. Either way the problem can't be to far from the battery if everything is not working. Good luck!
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6th Gear
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From: Penna
Thanks for all the replies. I jumped the solenoid and the motor turns over strong but it won't fire. I'll check the breakers next (when I can find them). Not sure if their behind the head light or under the seat.
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