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------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1986 - 2003
HARLEY DAVIDSON SPORTSTER
TROUBLESHOOTING MANUAL
CYCLETECH
This chapter covers troubleshooting procedures. Each
STARTING THE ENGINE
section provides typical symptoms and logical methods for
isolating the cause(s). There may be several ways to solve a
Engine Fails to Start (Spark Test)
problem, but only a systematic approach will be successful
Perform the following spark test to determine if the igni-
in avoiding wasted time and possibly unnecessary parts re-
tion system is operating properly:
placement.
An engine needs three elements to run properly: cor-
CAUTION
rect air/fuel mixture, compression and a spark at the right
Before removing the spark plugs, clean all de-
time.
bris from the plug base and surrounding area.
Dirt that falls into the cylinder causes rapid
If one basic requirement is missing, the engine will not
engine wear.
run.
Gather as much information as possible to aid in diagno-
1. Disconnect the spark plug wire and remove the spark
sis. Never assume anything and do not overlook the obvi-
plug as described in Chapter Three.
ous. Make sure there is fuel in the tank. Make sure the fuel
shutoff valve is in the on position.
NOTE
A spark tester is a useful tool for testing spark
In most cases, specialized test equipment is not needed to
output. Figure 1 shows the Motion Pro Igni-
determine whether repairs can be performed at home. On
tion System Tester (part No. 08-0122). This
the other hand, be realistic and do not attempt repairs be-
tool is inserted in the spark plug cap and its
yond personal capabilities.
base is grounded against the cylinder head.
The tool’s air gap is adjustable, and it allows
If the motorcycle does require the attention of a profes-
the visual inspection of the spark while test-
sional, describe the symptoms, conditions and previous
ing the intensity of the spark.
repair attempts accurately and fully. The more informa-
tion a technician has available, the easier it will be to di-
2. Cover the spark plug hole with a clean shop cloth to re-
agnose.
duce the chance of gasoline vapors being emitted from the
Refer to Table 1 and Table 2 at the end of this chapter.
hole.
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