Ever found yourself ready to ride your 2018 Harley Davidson only to discover it won’t start? You’re not alone. Many riders face this frustrating moment, especially after a long winter or extended time without use.
Knowing how to jump start your bike can save you from a day of disappointment and get you back on the road in no time. This article will walk you through the simple steps to safely jump start your Harley, ensuring you’re prepared for any unexpected hiccups. With just a few tips, you’ll feel confident and ready to hit the open road again.
Key Takeaways
- Essential Tools: Always have high-quality jumper cables, a portable jump starter, a multimeter, and safety gear (gloves and goggles) on hand to ensure a safe jump-start process for your Harley Davidson.
- Battery Checks: Before jump-starting, check the battery’s voltage with a multimeter. A healthy battery usually reads between 12.4 to 12.7 volts, and connections should be free from corrosion.
- Safe Jump-Starting Steps: Follow a systematic approach to connect cables correctly: red to positive terminals and black to a ground. Always start the good battery vehicle before attempting to start your bike.
- Troubleshooting: If your bike doesn’t respond, check for battery charge, connection integrity, blown fuses, and the kill switch position as initial troubleshooting steps.
- Professional Help: If the bike still won’t start after attempts to jump-start, consider consulting a qualified mechanic who specializes in Harley Davidson motorcycles for expert diagnostics and repair.
Tools Needed For Jump Starting
Jump starting your 2018 Harley Davidson requires specific tools to ensure the process is smooth and safe. Having the right equipment on hand makes the task easier and reduces the risk of damage.
Essential Equipment
- Jumper Cables: Choose high-quality, heavy-duty jumper cables capable of handling your bike’s battery requirements. Look for cables that are at least 4-6 feet long for ease of connection.
- Portable Jump Starter: Investing in a portable jump starter can be a convenient option. It provides power without needing another vehicle and typically includes built-in safety features.
- Multimeter: Use a multimeter to check battery voltage before attempting a jump. A fully charged battery should read around 12.6 volts. This helps confirm whether jump starting is necessary.
- Gloves: Wear rubber or insulated gloves to protect your hands from electrical shock and battery acid.
- Safety Goggles: Protect your eyes from any potential battery acid splashes or debris that may occur during the jump-starting process.
- Protective Clothing: Dress in long sleeves and closed-toe shoes to avoid exposure to any hazards while working around the battery.
Being well-prepared with the right tools and safety gear ensures a smooth jump-starting process for your Harley Davidson.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these simple steps to jump start your 2018 Harley Davidson safely and effectively.
Preparing The Motorcycle
- Ensure Safety: Turn off all electrical accessories. This includes lights, radios, and any other powered equipment.
- Check Battery Condition: Inspect the battery for corrosion or damage. A multimeter can help confirm if the battery holds a charge.
- Position the Bikes: Park another motorcycle or vehicle with a good battery close enough for the jumper cables to reach both batteries.
Connecting The Jumper Cables
- Gather Cables: Use high-quality jumper cables. Ensure they’re in good condition.
- Attach Red Cable: Connect one end of the red cable to the positive terminal (+) of the dead battery.
- Connect Other End: Attach the other end of the red cable to the positive terminal (+) of the good battery.
- Attach Black Cable: Connect one end of the black cable to the negative terminal (-) of the good battery.
- Connect Ground: Attach the other end of the black cable to an unpainted metal surface on the frame of the motorcycle with the dead battery. This reduces the risk of sparks.
- Start the Good Vehicle: Start the vehicle with the good battery and let it run for a few minutes.
- Start Your Harley: Turn on your motorcycle. If it doesn’t start immediately, wait a minute and try again.
- Remove Cables: Once your bike starts, carefully remove the jumper cables in the reverse order you connected them, ensuring not to touch any metal parts together.
These steps ensure a smooth and efficient jump start for your Harley Davidson, getting you back on the road quickly.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
When your 2018 Harley Davidson doesn’t start, several common issues may arise. Identifying and troubleshooting these problems can save you time and frustration.
No Response From The Bike
If your bike shows no signs of life, check these areas:
- Battery Charge: Confirm the battery has enough charge. A multimeter can help assess the voltage. A healthy battery should read between 12.4 to 12.7 volts.
- Connections: Inspect battery terminals for corrosion or loose connections. Tighten screws to ensure a solid connection.
- Fuses: Examine the fuse box for blown fuses. Replace any blown fuses with ones of the same amperage.
- Kill Switch: Ensure the kill switch is in the “Run” position. It’s an easy thing to overlook.
If these steps don’t resolve the issue, consider checking the starter relay and ignition switch.
Electrical System Problems
Electrical issues can often be the culprit if your Harley won’t start. Here’s what to look for:
- Wiring: Inspect the wiring harness for damage, fraying, or disconnections. Rodent damage can threaten electrical integrity.
- Faulty Sensors: Test the engine kill switch and side stand sensor. Bypassing these can help identify problematic components.
- Starter: Evaluate the starter by tapping it lightly with a wrench to free any stuck components. A failing starter may require replacement.
- Ground Connections: Check ground connections to ensure they are clean and secure. A poor ground can disrupt the electrical flow.
Addressing these electrical system problems can help narrow down starting issues with your Harley.
Alternative Solutions
Consider various alternatives if your 2018 Harley Davidson still won’t start after trying basic troubleshooting steps.
Using A Portable Jump Starter
Using a portable jump starter simplifies the jump-starting process. Ensure your jump starter is compatible with motorcycles. Follow these steps:
- Prepare the Jump Starter: Charge it fully before use. Check the indicator lights for charge status.
- Connect the Cables: Attach the positive (red) clamp to the positive terminal on your Harley’s battery. Next, connect the negative (black) clamp to a suitable ground, such as the engine block.
- Power On: Turn on the jump starter and wait a moment.
- Attempt to Start: Try starting your Harley. If it starts, let it idle for a few minutes to recharge the battery.
- Disconnect Safely: Turn off the jump starter first, then remove the clamps in reverse order.
Keep a portable jump starter in your riding gear. It proves valuable in emergency situations, providing more autonomy than relying solely on another vehicle.
Seeking Professional Help
If jump-starting doesn’t work, seeking professional help becomes necessary. Here are steps for that process:
- Find a Qualified Mechanic: Look for a mechanic who specializes in Harley Davidson motorcycles. Check reviews online for reliability.
- Describe the Symptoms Clearly: Provide detailed information about the problem, including sounds, dashboard lights, and previous troubleshooting attempts.
- Get an Estimate: Ask for an estimate on repairs before authorizing any work. Professional diagnostics might reveal hidden issues.
- Schedule Regular Maintenance: Consider setting an appointment for routine check-ups after the repair. Preventive maintenance helps avoid future problems.
Choosing professional assistance ensures your motorcycle receives expert care, keeping it in optimal running condition.
Conclusion
Getting your 2018 Harley Davidson back on the road doesn’t have to be a hassle. With a little know-how and the right tools you can jump start your bike and troubleshoot common issues. Remember to check the basics first like the battery and connections before diving deeper into electrical problems.
If you find yourself stuck don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional. Keeping your bike well-maintained not only ensures a smooth ride but also prolongs its life. So gear up and enjoy the freedom of the open road knowing you’ve got the skills to handle any starting issue that comes your way. Ride safe!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why won’t my Harley Davidson start after sitting for a while?
A Harley Davidson may not start after inactivity due to a dead battery, corroded connections, or a malfunctioning kill switch. Ensuring the battery is charged and connections are clean can often solve the issue.
How do I jump start my Harley Davidson motorcycle?
To jump start your Harley Davidson, connect the positive terminal of your battery to the positive terminal of the jump starter. Then, attach the negative terminal to a grounded metal surface on your bike. Start the power source and attempt to start your motorcycle.
What common issues should I check if my Harley won’t start?
If your Harley won’t start, check the battery charge, examine the battery connections for corrosion, verify the fuses, and ensure the kill switch is in the right position. Addressing these can often solve the problem.
How do I troubleshoot electrical issues on my Harley Davidson?
To troubleshoot electrical issues, inspect the wiring for damage, test the starter and ground connections, and check any faulty sensors. Thorough examination of these areas can help identify the cause of starting problems.
When should I consider using a portable jump starter for my Harley?
Use a portable jump starter if traditional jump starting methods fail or if you’re away from other vehicles. They provide a convenient way to boost your bike’s battery safely and effectively without needing another motorcycle.
When should I seek professional help for my Harley not starting?
If you’ve performed basic troubleshooting and your Harley still won’t start, it’s time to consult a professional mechanic. They can diagnose complex issues such as deep electrical problems or internal mechanical failures that require expert attention.
