BROKE DOWN On My 79 HARLEY Davidson SHOVELHEAD FXS 80 / WHAT HAPPENED??

Broke down again on my 1979 Harley Davidson shovelhead FXS 80. This time it wasn't my fault. Or was it? I guess old Harley shovelheads might be a little cantankerous.
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[@jonasf1275]

old bikes are great man best part is when the bike broke down without u realizing and u just kick start it for 20 minutes until u get that something is off like that one time I broke my foot on the snapback on a 700cc 2 stroke kickstart just great times

[@southernstyle067]

That's the first thing I done with my shovel. Changed back to points. And you can kick start it with lower voltage, where with electronic you can't.

[@SaddleTrampTV]

You're right about that.

[@garyjubar5733]

Yup. I replaced my electronic ignition with the points and condenser system. No more problems.

[@jdreyno1958]

Great friends like Darrell are priceless! You know one thing that stands out about you, brother? All that going on and you didn’t cuss once! Stay safe.

[@geraldboucher831]

I used a Mallory Performance Ignition Module For 30 years plus on my 1975 FLH, never had a problem. I sold my bike just last year. That ignition is still in that bike today. Simple system that uses your OEM spark advance. When I sold my 75 it had 300 thousand miles on it. Still going strong.

[@geraldboucher831]

@@eazyrider5261 And still running great some ware in France. It's new life across the pond. They go crazy for old Harleys.😁

[@caspar0777]

ru,nning points for 20 years now on my kickstart only shovelhead, never had a problem. Electronic ignation is not for me. Nice video, keep them comming!

[@SaddleTrampTV]

I've never had oem electronic ignition fail me. It's always been that over priced aftermarket stuff that's taken a dump on me.

[@whatsstefon]

@@SaddleTrampTV I agree. I have always used genuine HD parts on my Sporty. 100,000km and goes like the day it rolled off the showroom floor. I always get flack for using genuine. But I’m always the only one who doesn’t break down. Sure points can be troublesome, but somehow they always get fixed on the side of the road. They just need more care and attention. People want an old bike but with modern turnkey and go reliability. Not many of us left who tinker so much.

[@beardoallin657]

Need to get AAA,here in canada its caa.

[@shadetreesurgeon]

That used to happen to my evo, the starter thing. It’ll freak ya right out, thinking the whole things gonna catch on fire. I’ve been told by some old timers that a push button on the starter itself can prevent that from happening

[@bendaves77]

Scooter Tramp Scotty did a video on this happening .. he's got to push button down on the starter and it will still happen but you can take out 3 bolts which removed the shaft and start button, clean and lubricant it until you get a new one

[@SaddleTrampTV]

I put one those on my softail when I first got it.

[@tylerdunn6578]

I’ve seen a few done that way

[@keithqueen3554]

Happened to my 91 evo ultra fortunately in my driveway but glad it was me. Definitely scary moment.

[@doug3805]

I put one on my 93 Heritage Evo.

[@bobberguy1]

I don't carry American Express. Instead, I carry points, condenser, feeler gauge and emery cloth. Don't leave home without them!

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Right on!

[@JimPoston1]

Hey there lil' Brother! I understand. My first Hog was a 1982 FXR Shovel Head.... I loved the bike! I bought it NEW and kept it for 10 years. But it was a lot of trouble all the time I owned it ! I prefer the newer scooters personally! I had a bunch of starter and solenoid problems with the my 82 as well. I'm riding a 2011 Road Glide now. Great Bike! I'm 75 this year and Thank God I'm still able to "Keep the Shiny Side Up"! Best wishes with the Old Stuff! God Bless Y'all! JP

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Thanks, Jim!

[@jonasf1275]

well buying a bike that makes sense seems like a rational decision. But running her on alcohol on a hardtail frame with a suicide shifter and way too small tires just has that special something if u have a death wish

[@austineight996]

Tramp, in regards to that starter not disengaging, I had the same problem on the 1970 XLH I am currently restoring, in my case a brand new starter solenoid was bad, luckily I had the positive battery cable rigged with a small vise grip so I quickly knocked it off the battery post before my starting system was harmed. Scary thing to take your finger off the starter button and it continues to crank! Great move going back to points and condenser. They generally will give you ample warning before they fail unlike a electronic system that suddenly die and leave you stranded. All my old time friends run points on their vintage Harleys for a good reason, live and learn I guess. Take care tramp, great video by the way!

[@revbikerbigd8664]

Old owner problems always gets transferred to new owners until you go through the whole bike! May take years.

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Most folks my age by now would've given up on it. But it looks I'm in it for the long haul and eventually will be more than well aquainted with this bike.

[@revbikerbigd8664]

@@SaddleTrampTV the more you learn about your Shovelhead, the more you will love and keep her forever!

[@revbikerbigd8664]

@@SaddleTrampTV I own 78 FLH Shovelhead and 1999 FLSTC EVO, LOVE THEM BOTH.

[@UncleBogator]

The look on your face when it didn't start before changing the starter motor. I know that look well my man lol. Old bikes keep ya busy

[@toolbox7890]

Good to see folks helping out folks in trouble what it is all about. Guess the shovels and ironheads share the same saying ride repair repeat

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Lol... Yeah I guess so.

[@JohnPaul-ve4pg]

Humorous really. Love me some Shovel!

[@lewhanna6112]

I worked for my local Harley dealer in 79, I would go to points or the original electronic. The factory ignition is very reliable. Love the shovelhead. I also ran a 24 tooth front sprocket with the original rear, I could cruise at 80 mph all day.

[@tashunkawitco8484]

Good looking out Daryl. Brothers like that hard to come by. Hope you got her back on the road soon Much respect

[@davids.4135]

When my aftermarket ignition went out my rides kept getting shorter pretty soon I couldn't go around the block, but if it sat for a few it would start again.

[@leonvanhorn932]

To let you know my project is 1979/80 80” shovel head, FXE I picked it up five years ago in five different baskets. It was fun putting it together.

[@ThePeavey23]

I remember going on the march of dime bike cruise with my dad when I was a kid and we would see all the pos Harleys on the side of the road . We would fly by on his Honda shadow lol

[@scottme6615]

Nice that you stopped for that lady , old school biker code well done , glad to see you understand , how life should be .

[@vidvidbiker]

I am just converting my Evo to points, ditching the EFI and ECU and fitting a HRS42 Carb and putting a push button start on the solenoid - I am never going to get stranded with that set up 😎.

[@DougFLTRX]

Yeah I'm running a Twin Tec in my Evo and I have an extra ignition box, but I bought an entire points setup plus points coil and wires as a spare for long hauls so I don't get stranded. The electronic pickups don't like heat at all for sure

[@DougFLTRX]

I've thought about just going ahead and converting it over already anyway

[@whatyoumakeofit6635]

I haven't run points in awhile. I've been using dyna s ignition systems on everything for many years now. Every once in a great while a module or coil will fail. I just keep an extra of each on hand just in case. I've thought about switching back to point to a few times but, I hear alot about quality points being hard if not impossible to buy. That has kept me from going the points route on any of my scooters.

[@frankmarkovcijr5459]

It's so nice to have a mrs. To come get you out of the rain after you break down.

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Yes it is.

[@bmp72]

I love this sorta stuff with my shovelheads. Whenever it even has the slightest hiccup I tear into it to see whats going on. I always carry tools to address the issues that are going on at that moment. Currently I ride around with an extra set of plugs cause it fouls one of m, that cilinder sometimes cuts out. I have the most simplest Dynatec S ignition with the mechanical advance, chose it after reading omline its bulletprrof. With the point ignition the interval between the cilinders can be off, meaning only one will be correctly timed... this when the bolt throught the timing advance is not straight or the point lobes are worn unequal. I took my starter jackshaft apart this winter cause one time it failed to retract, greased it up properly. But it solenoid should be able to disengage even when the jackshaft sticks in the starter ring. And dont forget you can always kickstart it !

[@Gus7988]

I ran a screaming eagle ignition for a 1200 sportster on my 76 FXE, ran like a top for over 10 years. It was a 86" stroker, my wife lovingly referred to her as my trouble head.

[@arthurleino]

Good thing you found the problem. My stock electronic ignition failed on my 1983 FXWG, went to points and have not had problems for years. Electric start solenoid failed in Japan. So Kick started it even in the Philippines. Had Electric start fixed after retiring from the Navy. Still works and have been retired since Nov 92. Keep Safe on 2 Wheels!

[@2kanchoo]

I saw that on a video of a guy with a ktm the other day. the starter started going and wouldn't stop. Started melting the wiring harness and smoking bad. He had to disconnect the battery to get it to stop haha. I'd love to have an old shovelhead like that. There's just something special about the sound and style. So cool.

[@SaddleTrampTV]

It was pretty freaky when it happened.

[@ANONYMOUSBIKERUSA]

this guy here is a magician! dastardly deed befuddles him roadside only to turn into a masterful teaching on HOW it's done ladies and gentlemen! a true moto artiste ! well done good sir !

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Lol... Thank you, my friend.

[@JohnPaul-ve4pg]

Love watching your shovelhead videos! I got my ‘74 a month ago and spend more time working on it than riding. It is in beautiful shape and my favorite of my HDs, but a labor of love nonetheless. I have some buddies with shovelheads and we share our enthusiasm, pain and pleasure having a Shovel.

[@SaddleTrampTV]

That is awesome to have other friends with shovels. I'm pretty much by myself and learning things the hard way.

[@theadventurousrider]

I like your saying that's it's not the bike's fault...it's we the owners. If we owners would own up to our fault on lack of maintenance/tlc we wouldn't have as many break downs. Glad you got it back running.

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Thank you, my friend.

[@peteregger7928]

Maybe worth considering? Summit Racing™ battery disconnect switches positively shut off all current from the battery in the event of a short or accident. These high-quality 2-terminal switches come in multiple configurations, with or without mounting brackets. Be safe at the race track by adding a Summit Racing™ battery disconnect switch to your vehicle's electrical system.

[@ronniehdable]

Your coil shorted out in the rain it sounds like. No bite washers on the coil or water in your nose cone because of the rain . I run rtv at the bottom of where the wire goes in and a gasket on the points cover. They sell knock off Ultima pick ups that suck. Dyna s is the way to go. Don't go backwards with points . You have enough to mess with as it is. The solenoid sticking is low battery or wet or screwed! Lol. I stop for motorcycles. Even metrics . I had 50 Harley Davidsons ride by me waving and a metric cruiser with a dude and his son brought me some gas after my gas line broke when I hit reserve. Bikers come in all shapes is the truth. Keep doing what you do. Ron. God speed

[@SaddleTrampTV]

It had bite washers. They just don't show up too good in the video.

[@ronniehdable]

@@SaddleTrampTV you will get it for sure brother. You got too much good juju going your way!

[@donrice8026]

been riding cycles 50 yrs just got into these new cycles evos been a trailer 2 times alot of good miles maybee just lucky a lot of bad condensers lve started adding the 2 nd one yes running 2 at same time HAPPY TRAILS

[@shanecoker8566]

I used to keep something on me for when my starter solenoid would stick on my 69FLH until I finally got it all working properly. I had thought about changing out my points for a modern ignition but my old school Harley shop said not to do it. He told me it’s not a race bike so leave it stock and I’ll be much happier in the long run.

[@robertforeman933]

I got late 79 FXE, first thing I did was change to points condenser set up, second was got rid of electric starter, 3 rebuilds and still runs strong

[@TermiteOffroad]

It’s funny that we were both working on similar issues at the same time. Must of been an ignition bug going around haha

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Maybe so! Found a gremlin bell on the bottom side of the frame while working on it. I took it off, because obvious it's broken.

[@victorauletta7699]

Yeah, points are the way to go. Good decision. That’s all I run and it’s so easy to carry an extra set in your saddle bag. Good video.

[@RD-pf5uv]

Great video of life on a shovel! I am looking forward to your upcoming video of taking out your Ultima single fire set-up and going back to points. I have a 1970 FLH with the same ignition and want to go back to points as well. My bike starts easy with this ignition but I never trust it. I want to go back to points!

[@davidwhiren817]

My brother , you are starting to get a rhythm back with the vids !!! right on !!!

[@lightsacco]

Ya gotta disconect the terminal ,had it happen to me ,its a freak show when it happens ,right on Daryl!

[@HarleyGeezer1954]

Wow, glad you're ok. Breaking down in the middle of the road is not good. It's a good thing you know every nut and bolt on that bike.

[@SaddleTrampTV]

If this were my only ride, I'd probably know it better by now.

[@RebelScoutmaster]

Loved the video. Your camera work is great and tell a great story. Enjoyed it! Would love to do a ride someday!

[@markrawlins2685]

It’s great to have friends near bye bail us out and to lend a helping hand. Paying it forward is what it’s all about folks. Aka Good karma brings good things.

[@whatsstefon]

Man, you’re a legend for going back and rescuing that lady on two wheels.

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Lol... You think?

[@whatsstefon]

@@SaddleTrampTV absolutely! 👍

[@kurtsshovel1457]

Install a lever action starter solenoid . No more melted wires and dead batteries. I've been riding the same shovel head for 47 years.

[@whatsstefon]

@@kurtsshovel1457 great tip! And that’s awesome you’ve had the same shovel head for that long.

[@thomasprendergast2770]

I feel ya brother gotta flat rear tire 2012 heritage the other day and have been to busy to change it hopefully tomorrow stay in the wind my friend

[@ironridermoto]

I've got the same bike, same electronic ignition and same exact issue with it dieing like it's running out of gas. I originally thought vapor lock in the fuel line between the cylinders, but now I'm with you, the Ultima ignition is junk. Although when mine dies and I pull over, it fires back up again within a minute or two. I was thinking about getting a Dyna S as I've read they're good, but can't overlook good old points...

[@hualienmyhome]

I bought a brand new FXEF Shovelhead back in 1979 and it came with electronic ignition. I switched it to points.

[@charlesneilio7861]

I’m sitting hear with butterflies in my stomach waiting for the mechanic to call me and tell me my 79 flh is done. I bought it new in 1980. Sold it to a friend and bought it back. New breaks front and back and calibers.

[@chromehorserider8659]

Wow bro that's about the craziest breakdown story I've heard! Glad you got it figured out

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Yeah really! A first for me.

[@georgiahillbilly6150]

That's why mine lives in the basement I feel your pain lol

[@duchman99backup51]

😅😅👍

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Lol

[@glenspargo3376]

Hey Saddle Tramp! Looks like you are going to deal with it man! Nice of you to help a Biker gal too. Awesome to have friends like Darrel who are willing to give you a hand. Maybe sometime you can fire up the grill and invite Darrel to a good burger or maybe deliver it to him. You will know what is appropriate because you are smart and considerate. I like the idea of a battery disconnect - do they make waterproof ones? In the mid 1990s my old Chevy truck shorted in the starter. Luckily I had a pair of vice-grips in easy reach and popped the hood, jumped out, and disconnected the battery terminal. Smoke was billowing and I thought I had a fire and I had no fire extinguisher! Boy was I relieved to see the smoke subsided. Like you I called a friend and made a quick trip to the parts house and did a parking -lot repair. Thank goodness it was something simple. The only thing I had to worry about was to make sure the starter gear teeth did not mesh too tightly into the flywheel, else add shims. I like the simple easy repairs that work when I am done - don't you? Ride safe friend!

[@JerseyNickMoto]

Glad you got it figured out.

[@SaddleTrampTV]

You and me both, man!

[@hack2it]

Got to love those gremlins Tramp. My Ironhead has plenty of gremlins too

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Makes for great war stories

[@johnkenure4188]

hi great video putting in a battery main switch in and mounting it in a handy position is a good idea as iv had solenoids weld themselves together ,keep up the good work cheers

[@sergeantmasson3669]

'79 HD motorcycle was an AMF atrocity. I bought a 1976 Bicentennial Edition Sportster new. I had near constant problems with it and sold it 6 months later. Luckily, I lost no money when I sold it. I bought a Honda 750 SS which of course, was far more reliable. 2010, I bought a new HD XR 1200 which I still have. 2016, I bought a new HD Heritage Soft Tail which I also still have Never a problem with either of those.

[@timothyputzke1250]

I've also converted back to points on my 78 Shovel. Simplicity is better and easier to diagnose electrical problems. In my younger days I had a 1965 Honda CB160. It had electric start and a kicker. The starter would on occasion stick on. I'd grab a 2X4 and whack the seat. That would stop the starter from turning. It would only happen when parked near the garage with the lumber stacked near it. Haunted house on two wheels cracked me up! Lol

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Think I'll name this thing "BeetleJuice".

[@timothyputzke1250]

@@SaddleTrampTV Give her a lady's name. "Sheri" worked on my 79 iron head. She never made me walk. My shovel I did have to coast. Negative battery terminal came loose. First ride of the season. A guy was working on his boat as I coasted into his place, ( down hill driveway.) He had tools!! My saddlebags were empty. A shovel likes attention and demands that you get to know her as she with you. If you ever need of a specialty tool and Scooters doesn't have it, hit me up. This song fits pretty well. kzbin.info/www/bejne/eX6opKaIh7dpras Keep the shiny side up and the rubber side down.

[@pastorbobncc365]

I have never taken out points to install electronic ignition. Points are very easy to troubleshoot and fix.

[@markjulianoriginalhooli2217]

Yeah the older bikes you gotta pretty much keep em as they were designed

[@SaddleTrampTV]

I can believe that.

[@shovelheadffej]

I believe points are the way to go, no fuss no muss...or you could see me the bike..😉 great video Corey...hi to the missus..✌

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Thanks Ffeji! I'll tell her so!

[@tmack1]

One issue with electronic IGN is they get flaky if the voltage starts to drop. Get below 10 or 11v and shit starts to sputter and cough. Points keep going down to 6 or 7 volts. And the damn Shovel starter solenoid setup keeps the starter engaged until the engine starts (Actually, till the eng RPM gets higher than the starter rpm). A real hell if the battery is weak and doesn't have the guts to start and.... will keep cranking till it dies. "Stay engaged when the damn thing doesn't have the balls to turn the thing over"..... Who thought of that???? And the weak power will burn up a starter motor quick. I actually added an Auto starter solenoid under the battery which disengages power to the starter when I let off the button without worry of pulling cables off. The IGN output from the new solenoid goes to the Shovels Solenoid trigger. Works well. And hides well behind the odd shaped cover under the battery tray. That said, your symptoms can also be low voltage. You said you charged the battery, when you got back. I would too, thinking that trying to start it wore it out. But.... what if it was low volts when you broke down? Start the bike and make sure the regulator/rectifier is good. 13.5 to 14.5 volts to the battery when engine running. Easy check........ and if bad, switching to points won't get you far anyway. Next, on points, got to keep the Advance weights clean, otherwise they can hang in the out position and it will hesitate coming down to idle at a stop-light. Can live with it, but annoying.... trust me.

[@jefffrayer8238]

Very excellent point T. Mack. Easy to blame starter system or electronic ignition system when the real problem is actually the battery, connections or charging system. You can't expect electrical componets to work correctly if they don't have correct voltage.

[@vet_rider-om9jl]

I have the same ignition in my evo. The 94 ultra so far been really good. But I might have to stock up on a few parts just Incase I run into what happened there. As always awesome video 😊

[@PeterSmith-or3pq]

my 77 kz650 had points.tryed electronic . wondered why I put points back on ,

[@riceburner32]

Manual solinoid modification, don't worry about it anymore.

[@leonvanhorn932]

Boy watching you on your wonderful starter, & solenoid, I ended up putting new starter new solenoid . New wires because mine caught on fire. It was fun great learning experience.

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Yeah these old bikes will teach you what you don't know.

[@bravobob1]

Had the same basic problem on my 84 ironhead. Have the Dyna 2000 electronic ignition. Got lucky and it was just the coil went bad.

[@jeffmorris739]

It's always interesting. Some times the old ways are the best ways. I can understand points and condenser. Setting the gap and making sure the contacts are clean. I have done that since I was a kid but electronic computer mumbo jumbo is not my thing. Peace!

[@rangercwgbear6352]

I always stop to ask a Brother or Sister if they need help I usually carry tools with me for the smaller jobs

[@virgilastacy5281]

running 99evo electronic ignition never had any problems but you are so right with points you have a chance with electronic your down Anyway keep it between the mustard of mayo and rubber side down gbu later

[@PanM8]

Used to run points in my 65 Electra glide. About 17 years a go I put electronic ignition on it. A guy came up with it for the stock distributor. Also added an electronic voltage regulator. I rigged up a mounting plate, to mount the regulator under the bike. If you aren't looking for the regulator, you can't see it. The bike looks stock, but with better performance. (As far as "performance" goes on a bloated 74 inch, Electra Glide goes.) It's easier on the generator, the light doesn't dim when I idle and there's a hotter spark. And some years back, I put a Daytona Twin Tec ignition on my 80 Shovel. Never had a problem. The only bike left with points is my 71 Electra Glide. When I get around to it, it will get electronic ignition. I have been over the adjusting everything before a trip. I'm sure I'll have an ignition problem eventually, but that happens on new bikes too.

[@lovingmylifeasIage6741]

Carry a spare set of point too. I had a set of points mess up on me riding my 1977 Sportster back in 1977 from Florida one time. Thank goodness a guy stopped and helped me out. He actually went got another guy which opened up a Harley shop on a Sunday, that he worked at and got me a new set of points. It turned out that the plastic peace that rides up and down on the lob broke off. this happened in Athens Georgia.

[@SaddleTrampTV]

I plan on carrying some extras.

[@joeharley87]

Glad you got it fixed. Stay safe.

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Thanks, Joe! I'll give it a shot!

[@dogpaw775]

good friends, good result.

[@flashgordon2816]

Had the exact same solenoid not releasing/starter running on happen to my '87 FLHTC Evo many years ago.(Same Hitachi starter & same solenoid as my shovels)..I was parked preparing to leave when it happened so already in neutral...My first thought was starter button or switch sticking....couple seconds of messing with start button then got a wrench in hand & pulled cable at starter post as quick as I could ...A lot of that "magic smoke" escaped the starter/solenoid... :-) ... Lucky I was in a parking lot that had a slope to it...Roll started it & rode home.(engine ran fine before & after..???) ...next day I went all thru everything while battery was charging...Due to loss of said "magic smoke" I took apart starter for inspection of brushes, armature, anything copper,,windings,etc.,... surprised copper was not scorched... no winding damage, ....cleaned, & tested everything ..lubed where needed & reassembled... I never did find the exact cause & hasn't happened since...??? Was thinking binding starter pinion shaft just as you found but all that was good...> Que up theme song for "Unsolved Mysteries" ...???

[@TheLiam1951]

great to watch hear in ireland geep up the good work

[@vonkergan7004]

Glade to see your safe could have gone really wrong. Great vid as always, thanks amigo!

[@bigjames8579]

👍👍👍👍👍👍 Good day's and good friends.

[@roadtaco3924]

Thanks for sharing. Labor of love 👌🏾👌🏾👌🏾

[@SaddleTrampTV]

You bet

[@craiggoodwin9704]

Corey, your always interesting. Thanks for Sharing!

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Thanks, man.

[@tazalitaylor4056]

Been using points in my 69 FL i fitted more than 8 years ago & since i've looked at them, don't ride it enough "Preventative maintenance n Lube is highly recommended". spray silicon on the points gasket cover and use Extralube ZX1 Microlube Pin Oiler on Cam n Oiling tab and a squirt of WD40 behind the points on swing weight's, Last's Long Long time :-) i'm tempted to oil the point's cam soon ,, carry a spare condenser n points- cheaper than chips now :-) i'm glad your as enthusiastic as i am in repairing bikes when they brake ...i'm terrible keeps me up at night when shit happens to my Motorcycles or Fav Truck. Tink 🏴‍☠🍀

[@SaddleTrampTV]

I'll consider all that. Thanks for sharing!

[@everettcalhoun8197]

Coming from running points to electronic ignition the best luck I have had is on older shovels is a Dyna S hall effect sensors with the stock advance unit and an alternator upgrade. Don't know about Ultima ignitions but I know the early Harley electronic ignitions are suspect. Changed many early 80's shovels back to points. Welcome to the world of shovelheads. Ran into very few bowling ball bikes that did not need to be torn down completely and put back together correctly. Later bro.

[@WVXL64]

I like both ignition systems. I run the Ultima in my Ironhead stroker kick only bike. It's starts so easy with it and runs great, especially with the VOES hooked up. Helps keep the engine a little cooler. One thing I've learned about the Ultima is apparently the ignition module is made by Dynatek, but the coil is cheap Chinesium. So I run the Ultima module with an actual Dynatek coil and haven't had an issue in 6 years yet.

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Thanks for sharing

[@offpherj7884]

Its always something! Always something is better than nothing!

[@hippytrev7452]

l had same thing happen to my 84 softail evo with the starter ... sure did freek me out plus l had the spark plugs out as well so it just free ran till l got the battery lead off.... electronic ignition is great till it fails then its at lest $450 fix... cheers mate & Knee's in Da Breeeezzzeeeeeeee........

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Yeah, sure is a freaky experience!

[@martinwall7297]

my 77 flh has points and always will. when electronic ing. is working it's great, until it takes a dump and always at the wrong place & time.good luk.

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Right on!

[@jamespolucha6911]

I have a 1979 shovel head and that was a bastardize year they used what ever parts they had at the assembly line no 2 bikes are the same (parts wize ) I still have the bike and I bought it new in 1978 but don’t ride it too far anymore

[@JckHair]

Had the ignition problem on my 72 SuperGlide S&S, Ultima and Compufire. It turned out that the stator was shorting out on the rotor at certain RPM at certain loads throwing high AC voltage out to destroy the electronic ignitions (plural) It was hard to trace. No signs of it in the shop revving the engine or checking for frayed wires

[@AlsShop1]

Your Ignition system is NOT the problem I have been through this so many times with them troubleheads It makes my head hurt just thinking about it. If you're ever over here in Mobile Abama look me up at Al's motorcycle shop on KZbin. I'm not that easy to get ahold of so you might want to give me a heads up the day before.

[@edwardpotter9460]

Man love the video as usal, sorry for the trouble but as riders of Motorcycle's we've come to expect things never going as planned ..I live in Washington n.c on the pamlico River east part the state you're always welcome.. Really would love to talk to you sometime &look forward to the next video

[@scruffy4647]

I bought my’83 shovel in 1990. Not once have I had any regrets. Occasionally I’ll get a comment about it being a vintage bike. I am 73, it ain’t vintage to me.

[@frankmarkovcijr5459]

If the electronic ignition is as old as the by maybe it just needs to be replaced. I stopped with my trailer to help a Harley Rider who's ignition died and when we opened up the points compartment we saw that the plastic had cracked from a nothing you can do to fix that.

[@HJ-sn5gt]

Thanks for the video. Go Points and exercise!

[@peterrestaino7047]

loose that glass fuel filter because I had one start to fall apart because the threads gave out. the threads are only 30 percent of the curcumference the rest is machined off flat

[@quickshoe6]

Very cool thank you for sharing

[@davidgibson3656]

In the early 90's on my 78 FXS Shovel I dual plugged my heads and used a single fire dual points ignition plate where I used the Accel blue chip points. The bike ran great but those points were hard to find. Fast forward a few years when Dyna finally came out with electronic dual single fire ignition that I could use and I switched over. My bike was kick only because I removed all the starter parts and didn't want to worry about not ever having a issue with a battery issue cause by electric starter, this was before AGM batteries were so plentful. I wouldn't ditch the electoric ignition just yet, make sure your charging system in good shape, your wiring and the battery. Switch to a AGM battery since the electronic ignition requires more stable electricty.

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Everything else checked out fine. The unit is the only remaining suspect.

[@bendaves77]

This is why if I was to buy a shovelhead it wouldn't be long before I tore it down and rebuilt and made everything new..

[@SaddleTrampTV]

I hear ya!

[@Harley.Davidson]

Battery? 😶 If you looking at electronic ignition I can highly recommend the Dyna S and two 5-ohm coils. It still uses the advance fly weights. Been running one on my Shovelhead since 2001. 😎 No worries.

[@brettcreech3490]

Keep up the good work Tramp.😎

[@SaddleTrampTV]

I'll give it a shot!

[@bigwu100]

Looks like the old girl has been neglected. You'll get get it sorted out.

[@JarheadSixRides]

Great job!

[@johncimino8478]

Right on! Keep it up man. I dig the shovelhead videos!

[@nancyweems5270]

Love those extra parts.Aqays keep them too.

[@vntgmx]

On the good side it's keeping you busy in the garage with some moto therapy :)

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Yep!

[@Supermankev2001]

I liked this one lot of info and edited it beautifully great job, Cory!

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Thank you, Kevin. Trust you're doing well these days?

[@Supermankev2001]

@@SaddleTrampTV I am doing ok when all this stuff is over I will fill you in .LOL