So, your Harley Davidson is just clicking when you try to start it? That frustrating sound is a common problem, but thankfully, it's often fixable with some troubleshooting. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the most likely culprits, helping you diagnose and resolve the issue, getting you back on the open road.
Understanding the Click: What it Means
That distinct clicking sound usually originates from the starter relay or solenoid. It means the battery has enough juice to engage the starter, but something's preventing it from cranking the engine. This isn't the same as a slow crank or a completely dead battery; this is a specific problem that requires focused attention.
Common Causes of a Clicking Harley Davidson
Let's dive into the most frequent reasons your Harley is only clicking:
1. Low Battery Voltage
Even if your battery seems okay, it might not have enough cranking amps to power the starter motor. Cold weather significantly impacts battery performance. Use a multimeter to check the voltage. A reading below 12.6 volts (fully charged) indicates a weak battery. Consider a battery tender to maintain charge, especially during periods of inactivity.
2. Corroded Battery Terminals
Clean battery terminals are crucial for a reliable connection. Corrosion restricts current flow, leading to the clicking sound. Use a wire brush or battery terminal cleaner to scrub the terminals until shiny, then apply a corrosion inhibitor.
3. Faulty Starter Relay/Solenoid
The starter relay acts as a switch, directing power from the battery to the starter motor. A faulty relay is a common culprit for a clicking sound. You can test it with a multimeter (check your Harley's service manual for specifics) or simply replace it—they're relatively inexpensive.
4. Weak Starter Motor
Over time, the starter motor can weaken, requiring more current to turn the engine. This increased demand can overwhelm a weak battery, causing the clicking. While less common than other issues, a failing starter motor is a possibility. Testing requires more advanced diagnostics or professional help.
5. Loose or Corroded Connections
Beyond the battery terminals, check all connections related to the starting system: the starter relay, the battery cables, and connections to the starter motor itself. Loose or corroded connections will impede current flow. Clean and tighten any loose connections you find.
6. Neutral Safety Switch
Your Harley likely has a neutral safety switch that prevents the engine from starting unless it's in neutral. Ensure your transmission is indeed in neutral. A faulty neutral safety switch can also be the problem, preventing the starter circuit from closing even when in neutral.
Troubleshooting Steps: A Practical Approach
- Check the Battery Voltage: Use a multimeter to measure the battery's voltage.
- Clean Battery Terminals: Thoroughly clean and apply corrosion inhibitor.
- Inspect All Connections: Check for looseness, corrosion, or damage in all connections related to the starting system.
- Test or Replace the Starter Relay: Test it with a multimeter or replace it as a preventative measure.
- Check the Neutral Safety Switch: Make sure the bike is in neutral, and if necessary, have the neutral safety switch checked by a mechanic.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you've completed these steps and your Harley still only clicks, it's time to seek professional help from a qualified motorcycle mechanic. More complex issues like a faulty starter motor or wiring problems require specialized tools and expertise. A mechanic can diagnose the problem accurately and perform the necessary repairs.
This guide provides a starting point for troubleshooting your Harley's clicking issue. Remember to consult your motorcycle's service manual for specific details and diagrams. Safe riding!
