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[PanamaTex]

I have a 2008 FLHTCUSE3 (picked it up in August 08). When I start the engine, especially if it is warm already, the engine does not turn over and there is a terrible grinding sound. Anyone else encounter this problem and if so, what have you done about it? Limited dealer service here in Republic of Panama, so I need to go in with at least an idea of where to begin to solve issues.

Thanks,
PanamaTex

[GregKhougaz]

Hey Tex,

          Sorry to hear this but you don't say where the noise emanates from.  From your explanation, I assume the noise is coming from the starter area rather than the engine.  I have a buddie with the same bike and similar problem, I think.  He was told by the dealer the issue is the interface between the ring and pinion gears.  Bad news is that HD will not fix until he suffers a break down.      Hope this helps.... 

GK

[PanamaTex]

Hey Greg,

Yup, it is from the starter. And, I have been told by the owner of CycleSolutions, who installed and tuned my PC, that he had a similar problem and ended up spending mega bucks to fix it himself. Sorry, didn't get all the details of exactly what he did, thinking I would find someone who didn't have to spend mega bucks.

Thanks,
Tex

[efrbc1]

My '05 was doing the same thing.  Installed a heavier ring gear and pinion gear from Rivera products.  Problem solved!  Check earlier posts for more info on this.

Chris

[efrbc1]

Here it is.  Under 2005 SEEG Electra Glide.  "Starter Issues".


http://www.cvoharley.com/smf/index.php?topic=26544.0

Chris

[GregKhougaz]

Tex,

          Subscribing to the theory that the sqeaky wheel gets the grease, maybe heat up the bike, take it to service (I'm assuming you can get to a dealer), duplicate the issue for them and tell them what you think it is.  Then, b_tch like h_ll until they agree to fix.  You can always call HD and complain 414/343-4056 (voice mail option #4 for service).  HD knows it's a problem. 

[igofar]

Hey Tex,
This seems to be very common amongst this generation of 110's.
Does your bike have the "new" cylinder heads?
Supposedly the new ACR's help this situation.

I am so nervous starting my bike at times, I let everyone else start theirs first just to cover up the BAD noises it makes.
I am going with mechanical compression releases hoping to eliminate the embarrassment at fuel stops....


Brad

[PanamaTex]

First of all...Thanks to all of yo my brothers. I really did not expect such quick responses. Great to know that there are brothers out there to lend advice when needed. I hope I can repay the favor sometimes.

Brad, Not sure about the "NEW" heads. But, being a mid '08 model, I am assuming that it does. This was mentioned as a possible today on the phone with cause by the owner of CycleSolutions who installed my PowerCommander in Milwaukee in August.
 
Thanks,

[Keats]

Just for kicks see if this problem ever happens with trans in neutral?
If there is no problems in neutral then the extra clutch load is putting the starter over the top.
I have experienced a similar condition, but only while in gear (just to lazy to put it in neutral all of the time)

[PanamaTex]

Hi FLHTCUSE3,

Almost always start in neutral. Just a habit I have, especially the first start of day, because I like to let the engine warm up and cycle the oil at idle wile I do other things to prepare for a ride. It happens in neutral and in gear on the odd occasion that I start in gear.

Thanks,
Tex

[Keats]

I guess you are now hoping that the starter craps out totally before August 2010.

[1abastarsmda]

I rode in a parade on Saturday.  The bike was constantly making nasty noises (clunking, etc) as the rear cylinder was shutting down.  I was getting real worried, especially since my bike only has 400+ miles on it.  After the parade, we stopped to eat.  The temp was about 20 - 25 degrees, so after eating, I figure the bike had a chance to cool down pretty well.  When I went to start it, I got a quick grinding sound followed by what seemed like something had stuck and came to an immediate halt with a bit of a louder noise upon the sudden stop in starting activity.  When I tried again, it started right up.  Is this what you are talking about above?  I am hoping that this was an isolated occurrence, but I guess I won't find out until I get some clear roads to ride on again.  Does this only happen when the bike is overheated or should I expect it to occur randomly in normal riding conditions?

[PanamaTex]

1abastarsmda,

That is exactly what is happening with my bike. And on some occasions it even happens on the first start of the day, but mostly when it is warm. Although my bike has bit more miles on it (about 6100) because when I picked it up in Las Vegas in August 08, I rode to San Diego and then to Milwaukee for 105th and then to Miami to ship here to Panama. But, I have a big feeling it has nothing to do with the mileage.

Tex

[cowboy7123]

Mine did the same thing during cold and hot starts, Then I had the recall done, it has stopped for now..... Did you get the recall done with the new heads and ARC?

[PanamaTex]

cowboy7123,

Unfortunately, I did not. I have never received anything regarding a recall. Is there someplace where I can go and download the information about it to take to the local dealer? Preferably in Spanish so they understand it correctly.

Thanks,
Tex