NO POWER! At All!!!!

Raywood

The Pirate
Staff member
Calendar Participant
Troop Supporter
Cant seem to get photos off this mac book.
I put the battery on my tender last night. Took it to AutoZone this morning and tested all good. Hooked it back up to the bike and got only the headlamp coming on.
I have searched everywhere for this reset button and have had no luck. Does anyone have the same bike as me and would know exactly what and where to look?

I dont have all these voltage stuff and am a little confused as to what is being said and what to test. I used to build street strip hot rods but never had any electrical issues that I had to deal with, so this language is all new to me. The only thing electrical that i messed with was wiring up nitrous and an MSD box. This is so way different about being sensitive to how i jump it and what not to do. I always that these were the muscle cars of all motorcycles and that they kind of worked the same. Carburated, needs power and fuel.:bang::bang::bang::bang::bang:

I think you stated you have the circuit breaker installed and if it's starting then there is no problem with it.

As for the battery even though it's new I think you stated you bought it at Autozone or something. It most likey doesn't have the CCA rating it needs to start your bike. Replace it with a HD battery and you should be good to go. It takes a lot to start these big motors and going cheap on the battery is not helping you. Make sure you aren't opening the throttle when you crank it over.

:cheers:
 

Pero Maldito

Texas Rider
Hey Chopper Dave & tech01 thanks for that bit of info. Took the voltage regulator off and it was an 05 model. I only pray that is the problem. I called down to Strokers and they stated that there were no recalls on my Chopper but that she was going to call her rep about it and call me back as to what they would do.
Would i have to remove and install myself if they do replace for free?
I really hope this is it, I dont have the money to be spending since I have been our of work for some time.

I have checked all my connections, unscrewed or unbolted the ones i could and cleaned them just for extra help. Took the starter cover off and cleaned up those brass connection spots.
 

Pero Maldito

Texas Rider
OK, got a call back from Strokers. This is what she said, "that the computer did show that they serviced that issue when i brought it in one time for carb tuning. That they didnt need to replace the regulator but only the circuit breaker".
Is this true?
Do they dont have to replace the whole thing?
What is this circuit breaker?
That big fuse that is the only one fuse on my entire bike?
I have a computer module for a carburated bike but only one fuse for protection?

They also said it sounds like the EHC.

WHAT IS THIS EHC!
I dont have 500 bucks much less a hundred bucks!

Is there anything i can do my self?
When I have built cars in the past I have installed a fuse block and tied everything into that.
Is that possible on these bikes?
Is there a best way around this?
 

BikersDream

We build what you Dream!
OK, got a call back from Strokers. This is what she said, "that the computer did show that they serviced that issue when i brought it in one time for carb tuning. That they didnt need to replace the regulator but only the circuit breaker".
Is this true?
Do they dont have to replace the whole thing?
What is this circuit breaker?
That big fuse that is the only one fuse on my entire bike?
I have a computer module for a carburated bike but only one fuse for protection?

They also said it sounds like the EHC.

WHAT IS THIS EHC!
I dont have 500 bucks much less a hundred bucks!

Is there anything i can do my self?
When I have built cars in the past I have installed a fuse block and tied everything into that.
Is that possible on these bikes?
Is there a best way around this?

can you call me at 1-877-213-0062 just want to ask you a few questions.


Steve
 

Pero Maldito

Texas Rider
BikersDream (Steve)
I tried calling you but they said you were out.
Gabriel (972) 834-3170
I guess Ill try back after lunch to see if your back.
 

ChopperJeff

Active Member
The EHC is the Electronic Harness Controller. It's also blamed for a lot of things and can be very finicky. I've been lucky with my 2005 Chopper regarding the EHC as I still have the stock one, even after 59,000 miles. The only EHC recall I had on my bike was in relocating it and mounting it a bit differently so as to be less prone to vibration issues.

The other recall, which may be more in line with your issue, is the voltage regulator was replaced with a newer type. Apparently the stock one had a potential of shorting to ground, thus killing everything.

As for that main breaker you keep mentioning, I don't see how that tripping would kill all the power to everything as I believe that breaker ONLY goes to the voltage regulator, with the alternator just down from that. See image below from the service manual's schematic:



Here's what the manual says about this breaker:

"The circuit breaker is in series between the voltage regulator output (B+ wire) and the battery
positive terminal. The circuit breaker is to protect the battery and wiring in case of a fault in the
voltage regulator or wiring. The circuit breaker is operated thermally."

If you want to view the service manual, I'll see if I can get it up on my web site at least long enough for you to take a gander at it.
 

BigMike

Big Mike
but i still dont think he said he tried a new high cca battery i could have missed this? i only know this because this just happened to me monday ,three year old battery tested 12.6 v on meter turn on key lights and all fine hit start all dead.I bought a new drag battery[thanks for info BikersDream] and all is well.
 
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ChopperJeff

Active Member
Yes, you are probably correct. I too would suspect the battery, as it would make sense that until a load is put upon it, it may appear OK. But, once the battery is asked to actaully put out some real amps, it peters out. I once had a cell go bad in my new battery, and that's the bahavior I saw.
 

bigdogtech01

Well-Known Member
If your bike headlight is turning on then it is not a Circuit breaker or MAXI Fuse issue. It is more than likely your battery or EHC. The Recall was to install the MAXI fuse ( large Red wire going into a large fuse holder, going from your batt Pos lead to a Red in color post bolted to your battery box) this is only for '04 and '05 Volt. Regulators, '06 and up still use the Circuit Breaker. You need the MAXI Fuse, and it sounds like you have it. With your battery out of the bike, check the large connectors going into the EHC( EHC is gold in color with LED lights on it) make sure the EHC does not have any Rubber seal down inside where your Harness plugs in. Check both harnesses and make sure there is no visible corrosion on either side, EHC and Wire harness. If it has rubber down inside pull it out with a small pick, make sure it is all out. Throw that damn thing away, DO NOT put it back in. ALSO MAKE SURE DURING this you have the battery disconnected and out of the bike. Now once you have everything clean take some Dielectric grease, put it on your harness end and some down inside the EHC and put it all back together. Then give it a try. Good luck and let us know. Oh yeah, Dielectric grease you can buy at any auto parts store, just ask for it or go into the isle with the other shop supplies like RTV and other sealants.
 

bigdogtech01

Well-Known Member
Also note, you can get a load test/ starter draw test by hooking your meter up to your battery, see what your voltage is, turn the key on, hit the starter, see what the voltage drops down to, if it is less than 10 volts, you probably need a new battery, or starter, and or starter wires. More than likely your battery is BAD, sorry but may be so:)
 

Pero Maldito

Texas Rider
OK guys, this is what I have done so far:
Pulled of the 2 big connections from the EHC and cleaned the connections and put new dio-electric grease.
Pulled out all sensors and wires that were bolted or plugged in and cleaned.
Jumped my key switch.
Pulled off plate at handlebar brake lever and checked connections.
Pulled of starter plate and cleaned contacts.
Checked all my wires for anything bad, even took off my tank and went through them.

Here is what happens:
After reconnecting my battery I have power to everything. As soon as I push the start button I get a click or a start of a turn but then loose power to everything and have to pull all cables off battery for 5 minutes before I connect again to have power once more.

I am still using that autozone battery, but did call Harley to ask to compare and everything seemed the same but a few less CCA's.
Would the battery really cause it to act like that? I would think the bike would at least attempt to start but maybe not have all the juice to turn on. I wouldn't think that it would cause the bike to go totally dead and have to pull all cables off just to get power again.

Anyones help is much appreciated! I do not have the $500 bucks to shell out.

Thanks.
 

Raywood

The Pirate
Staff member
Calendar Participant
Troop Supporter
OK guys, this is what I have done so far:
Pulled of the 2 big connections from the EHC and cleaned the connections and put new dio-electric grease.
Pulled out all sensors and wires that were bolted or plugged in and cleaned.
Jumped my key switch.
Pulled off plate at handlebar brake lever and checked connections.
Pulled of starter plate and cleaned contacts.
Checked all my wires for anything bad, even took off my tank and went through them.

Here is what happens:
After reconnecting my battery I have power to everything. As soon as I push the start button I get a click or a start of a turn but then loose power to everything and have to pull all cables off battery for 5 minutes before I connect again to have power once more.

I am still using that autozone battery, but did call Harley to ask to compare and everything seemed the same but a few less CCA's.
Would the battery really cause it to act like that? I would think the bike would at least attempt to start but maybe not have all the juice to turn on. I wouldn't think that it would cause the bike to go totally dead and have to pull all cables off just to get power again.

Anyones help is much appreciated! I do not have the $500 bucks to shell out.

Thanks.

Enough :rant::rant:

Get a good battery!!!! I think enough members have said this.


:2thumbs:
 

Pero Maldito

Texas Rider
OK OK OK OK.
I am heading over to Strokers tomorrow morning and getting a "Deca", what they use for replacment on BDM and their customs.

Anything else?

Does anyone have a good lead on cheap EHC's in case that's it?
 

bigdogtech01

Well-Known Member
WOW I thought I had along with others said to start with your "BATTERY FIRST":) They do not last forever, only 2-3 years at the most depending on the state you live and how well you maintain it. Buy yourself a new battery along with a battery tender. It does not have to be a battery tender brand, it can be Drag Specialties ( they are made by battery tender but cost much less, only $30) keep that tender on all the time when your not riding it.
YES a battery does make your bike act like that if it is bad, remember what I wrote before, if your battery is less than 80% or 12.5volt it most likely will not start, it is a safe feature for your starter.
No there are no aftermarket companies making the EHC for your bike unfortunately:(
Let us know how you make out. Oh also make sure that battery you are buying is 100% charged. They might tell you it is, but you never know, it may have been sitting on their shelf for 6 months.
 

bigdogtech01

Well-Known Member
OK guys, this is what I have done so far:
Pulled of the 2 big connections from the EHC and cleaned the connections and put new dio-electric grease.
Pulled out all sensors and wires that were bolted or plugged in and cleaned.
Jumped my key switch.
Pulled off plate at handlebar brake lever and checked connections.
Pulled of starter plate and cleaned contacts.
Checked all my wires for anything bad, even took off my tank and went through them.

Here is what happens:
After reconnecting my battery I have power to everything. As soon as I push the start button I get a click or a start of a turn but then loose power to everything and have to pull all cables off battery for 5 minutes before I connect again to have power once more.

I am still using that autozone battery, but did call Harley to ask to compare and everything seemed the same but a few less CCA's.
Would the battery really cause it to act like that? I would think the bike would at least attempt to start but maybe not have all the juice to turn on. I wouldn't think that it would cause the bike to go totally dead and have to pull all cables off just to get power again.

Anyones help is much appreciated! I do not have the $500 bucks to shell out.

Thanks.
Looks like you enjoy working on your bike:D Well at least you were able to see a lot of things and maybe learn something while you had it all apart:up:
 
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