Harley Bad Coil Symptoms/Harley Davidson Ignition Coil Troubleshooting

Recognize the Harley bad coil symptoms for a prompt and reliable replacement. Enhance the overall performance of your motorcycle.

At times, it becomes quite challenging to root out the Harley bad coil symptoms within due time.

Similarly, if one fails to detect the same, it can worsen the vehicle’s overall performance.

On top of that, the condition of the ignition coil defines the functioning of the engine. It is necessary to maintain the ignition coil.

In this blog, we have listed all that you need to know about the ignition coils, such as faults, replacement, and maintenance.

What is an Ignition Coil?

An ignition coil or a spark coil is like an induction coil present in the ignition system of an automobile.

Besides, it assists in transforming the voltage of the battery to a large number of volts. Eventually, it kindles a spark inside the spark plugs for igniting the fuel.

Thus, it alters the current having low voltage into one whose voltage is enough to create a spark.

Know what is the Twin Cam reliability of Harley visit here.

Types of the ignition coil

Generally, the following are the four types of ignition coils that are popular in the segment:

1. Conventional Ignition Coil

In the conventional ignition coils, the prime circuit gets the power through the battery over the resistor.

Furthermore, with the help of the primary coil’s windings, the current flow creates a magnetic field.

After that, the present electrical circuit gets broken as soon as there is an opening for the points. Ultimately, this process collapses the magnetic field.

Likewise, this collapse’s force surpasses the windings of the supplementary oil to generate an electrical current.

Moving onto next, the current flows inside the distributor cap and then reaches the spark plugs in no time.

2. Distributor-less or DIS Ignition Coil

The DIS ignition systems construction aids in allowing more energy to be accessible from several coils.

On top of that, it features three or more coils fixed altogether in a pack of the coil. Apart from this, such type of coils relies mainly on a device for magnetic triggering.

In due course, it helps determine the speed of the engine and the position of the crankshaft.

Most importantly, this system defines the spark timing as per the two shaft sensors and a computer.

There are two sensors; the camshaft position sensor or CMP and the crankshaft position sensor or CKP. To sum up, these sensors perpetually monitor the position of both the shafts.

The 7 Common Problems of Harley Tri-Glide.

3. Electronic Ignition Coil

Much to say, the electronic ignition coil is pretty much similar to the conventional one.

The critical difference is that it does not have points and cam distributors like that of the traditional system.

In place of these, the electronic system utilizes a pickup coil that helps in signaling the control module.

Yet there will be a distributor; the pickup coil would replace the points. Apart from this, the coils settle down over the top of the spark plugs directly.

There is no requirement for wires for the spark plug as the system is fully electronic.

4. Coil-on-Plug or COP Ignition Coil

An important thing to note about the COP ignition coil system is integrating all the DIS one’s electrical controls.

Yet, in place of two cylinders with a single-coil, every COP coil facilitates only one cylinder. Because of this, the COP ignition system can produce higher volts along with great sparks.

Another noteworthy thing about this ignition system is that the coil directly sits on the topmost of the spark plug.

It eliminates the need for wires explicitly made for the spark plug function at the end of the day.

Furthermore, the ECM or PCM can regulate the spark and its timing as per each separate cylinder.

The Harley Bad Coil Symptoms

01. Bike Stalling

When the user releases the clutch too faster, the rear wheel does not attain the adequate speed to match that of an engine.

As a result of this, a stall would occur. Usually, this condition takes place in case of a destructive or inadequate ignition coil.

Eventually, the weaker coil would transmit a few uneven sparks to the spark plugs.

After that, your vehicle might stop working or do not even start again after shutting up.

Tie-down a motorcycle on the trailer without a chock, to know how to read the article here.

02. Backfiring of Engine

Engine backfiring occurs when the combustion process occurs in the exteriors of the engine’s combustion cylinders.

If the engine cycle’s spark timing is irregular, then the unburnt fuel alongside air would pass through the exhaust.

Additionally, one can notice the engine backfire if the engine is either rich or lean.

Rich refers to when there is less air in the engine as a comparison to the fuel. On the other hand, lean means when there is lesser fuel in the engine than air.

However, when backfiring happens, the unutilized fuel or the black smoke passes through the combustion cylinder to the exhaust pipe.

03. Reduction in fuel economy

Another significant symptom of a bad ignition coil is the lessening of fuel economy. If you notice that your bike is consuming more fuel than usual, it is a cause of concern.

Because of the low fuel economy, the vehicle receives less mileage. The best way is to check and assess the faults in the ignition coil.

04. Misfiring of engine

Generally, the engine misfiring is a condition that signifies the malfunctioning of the ignition coil. The engine produces an unpleasant and noisy sound when the user ignites the engine.

Apart from this, if you drive the bike at a higher speed, the engine might jerk and spit, generating a nasty vibration. Along with that, the engine may idle or even fails to start.

05. Rough Idling or Erratic Engine

One can experience rough idling as soon as the engine starts running, and the vehicle feels either bouncy or rough.

Besides clogged filters, the other reason behind this issue could be the low or bad ignition coil.

Because of this, if you accelerate the engine, it might function indifferently. At that time, the user can sense that there is less power in the engine than usual.

06. Engine Failure

Engine failure is another common issue that indicates the poor condition of the ignition coil.

In particular, the single-coil engines are more prone to encountering such a problem due to the failed coil.

Sooner or later, the engine will begin to make winding noise along with no sparks passing out of the cylinders.

The system of changing transmission oil on Harley 103.

How to Avoid Harley Davidson Bad Ignition Coil Problems

1. Keep the spark plugs in good condition

If your Harley Davidson’s spark plugs get worn out, it forces the ignition coils to perform at very high output.

Apart from this, when the spark plugs wear down, the gap between every spark plug widens. The ignition coil has to deliver a much higher voltage.

Likewise, it causes an added strain on the ignition coil, thus leading to voltage overloading.

Because of this, the engine tends to overheat, which ultimately fails. By maintaining the spark plugs in good condition, you can prevent the failure of the ignition coil.

2. Keep a check on the tires

It is vital to check whether the tires of your Harley Davidson are in good condition or not.

Apart from this, make sure to replace if either of the tires is worn out. Otherwise, it can adversely affect the functioning of the ignition coil, thus causing overheating.

3. Fill the fuel tank in due time

For the smooth functioning of the engine, one must check the fuel status quite often. In addition to this, make sure to fill the Harley Davidson fuel tank before it gets empty.

When a motorcycle is low on fuel, it throws extra pressure on the engine and the ignition coil.

4. Keep your motorcycle clean

Regular cleaning of Harley Davidson is essential as it helps in keeping your vehicle in excellent condition.

Use a mild cleaner to remove off the dirt and grime which gets accumulated on the motorcycle.

Or else the overall system of the vehicle would not function properly in the long run. On top of that, check for corrosion and rust on the body of the vehicle.

How to test the ignition coil of Harley?

• Firstly, you have to turn off the motorcycle and then let the engine turn cool before proceeding further
• Using your hands, disconnect the wires of the two spark plugs from the oil. After that, unscrew the minor connections on the coil with the help of an SAE wrench.
• Furthermore, set the ohmmeter so that it can read the resistance over the Rx1 setting.
• Now you have to measure the resistance through the two minor terminals present on the coil. Ideally, the reading of the ohmmeter should range from around 10,000 to 12,500 ohms.
• Lastly, if the ohmmeter’s reading is outside or above the ideal range, then there is a fault in the ignition coil.

How to replace ignition coil of Harley Davidson?

• If the ignition coil is faulty; the foremost thing to do is disconnect the negative terminal on the battery
• After that, locate the coil which you need to replace and then detach the cable that leads to the Harley bad coil symptoms
• Now, unscrew the bolts and remove the low coil from the bay of the engine
• Later one, follow the process for installation to set up the new coil
• Lastly, ensure that the newly fixed ignition coil is compatible with the engine of your Harley Davidson

Cost

Important to note, the ignition coil’s cost varies as per the make and model of the Harley Davidson.

Some coils might have to pay around $80, whereas some might need $300, including parts. On average, the total cost of replacing ignition coils would stand somewhere in the range of $150.

Maintenance Tips

• Using a diagnostic tool or an automotive scanner, read the faulty codes alongside live data
• Assess the coils for any symptoms of damage
• Occasionally, remove and check the spark plug together with the gap and wire
• With the help of a multimeter, determine the supply of voltage to the ignition coil; the ideal voltage is 10.5V
• Analyze the primary as well as secondary circuits of the coil using the multimeter
• Notice the fuel efficiency of the vehicle along with engine performance

FAQ’s of Harley Davidson Ignition Coil Troubleshooting

How often should one replace the ignition coil?

As soon as you start the engine, the ignition coil comes into play. It is necessary to keep it in good condition by replacing it in due time.

Preferably, an ignition coil would last around 100,000 or even more, depending upon the situation and upkeep. After that, one should replace it.

Are coil pack and ignition coil the same thing?

No, both are not the same as the ignition coil is efficient in producing a high voltage that directly goes into the spark plug.

On the contrary, the coil pack is a set of coils that are for the engine. Besides, it does not run the distributor. Further, every coil supplies power to either separate or a set of spark plugs.

What is the benefit of replacing ignition coils?

A good ignition coil enhances the performance of the engine in many ways. Firstly, it assists in producing a higher voltage that enlarges the gap between the spark plug.

Thus it results in a robust flame kernel at the initial stage of the combustion. In the end, it boosts the torque power of the engine.

For how long does an ignition coil last?

In general, an ignition coil would last long for a minimum of two years or up to 24,000 miles, whichever comes first.

Other than this, individual coils are made to last at least 100,000 miles or more.

Adjust your clutch on Harley with the 6 steps.

What happens on driving with a bad ignition coil?

One should never drive a motorcycle with Harley bad coil symptoms leading to ignition problems as it can give rise to the following issues:

• Engine failure or backfire
• Poor fuel economy
• A complete breakdown of the vehicle
• Converter damage
• Erratic engine with noise

What causes a loss of spark?

Loss of spark occurs when the coil voltage is unable to bridge the electrode gap at the edge of the spark plug.

Moreover, the reasons behind this are worn or damaged spark plugs with low plug wires and broken distributor cap

What happens when the ignition turns hot?

If the ignition coil becomes hot, it implies that the ignition switch was either operative or is faulty. Because of this, the controller provides power to the ignition coil even if it is switched off.

How to change handlebars on Harley Davidson Ultra Classic.

Verdict

After going through the information above, you have become well-versed in the upkeep of ignition coils.

Additionally, it is pretty much more comfortable to figure out the Harley bad coil symptoms by assessing engine performance.

Other than this, fuel efficiency also plays a pivotal role in defining the condition of ignition coils. After all, who does not loves to enjoy a safe yet adventurous ride on a Harley Davidson?