WARNING
Shift transmission to neutral before starting engine to prevent accidental movement, which could result in death or serious injury. (00044a)
NOTICE
The engine should be allowed to run slowly for 30-60 seconds. This will allow the engine to warm up and let oil reach all surfaces needing lubrication. Failure to comply can result in engine damage. (00181b)
NOTE
Engine off/run switch on the right handlebar control group must be in RUN (ignition ON) position to start engine.
Refer to Maintenance and Lubrication → Engine Lubrication → Recommended Engine Oils. Use the recommended oil for extended or expected temperatures.
If you read this section and still have questions about the correct operation of your motorcycle, talk to an authorized Harley-Davidson dealer.
C.V. Carburetors
NOTE
  • C.V. carburetors have an enrichener circuit that will cause the engine to idle at approximately 2000 RPM with the engine at normal operating temperature and the enrichener knob pulled fully-out.
  • The increase in idle speed is intended to alert the rider that the engine is warmed up to normal operating temperature and the enrichener knob should be pushed all the way in.
  • Continuing to use the enrichener when the engine is at full operating temperature WILL CAUSE FOULED SPARK PLUGS.
NOTICE
Pay close attention to the vehicle's warm-up time. Either excessive or insufficient use of the enrichener may cause poor performance, erratic idle, poor fuel economy, spark plug fouling and equipment damage. (00164a)
NOTE
The following starting and operating instructions for all Harley-Davidson motorcycles are recommendations. They may be modified for individual vehicles.
Cool Engine
Outside Temperature Cooler Than 60° F (16° C)
  1. Turn the fuel valve to the ON position.
  2. BE SURE THROTTLE IS CLOSED.
  3. Pull enrichener knob to full-out position.
  4. Turn the ignition/headlamp key switch ON and press starter switch to operate the electric starter.
  5. Raise jiffy stand.
  6. After initial 15-30 second warm-up, ride for 3 minutes or 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) with enrichener knob in full-out position.
  7. After 3 minutes or 2 miles (3.2 kilometers), push the enrichener knob in to the 1/2 way position. Ride 2 minutes or 2 miles (3.2 kilometers).
  8. After 2 minutes or 2 miles (3.2 kilometers), push the enrichener knob fully-in.
NOTE
If outside temperature is cooler than 20° F (7° C) it may be necessary to roll the throttle 2 or 3 times.
Outside Temperature Warmer Than 60° F (16° C)
  1. Turn the fuel valve to the ON position.
  2. BE SURE THROTTLE IS CLOSED.
  3. Pull enrichener knob to full-out position.
  4. Turn the ignition/headlamp key switch on and press starter switch to operate the electric starter.
  5. Raise jiffy stand.
  6. After initial 15-30 second warm-up, ride for 1 minute or 1/2 mile (0.8 kilometer) with enrichener knob in full-out position.
  7. After 1 minute or 1/2 mile (0.8 kilometer), push the enrichener knob in to the 1/2 way position. Ride 1 minute or a 1/2 mile (0.8 kilometer).
  8. After 1 minute or 1/2 mile (0.8 kilometer), push the enrichener knob fully-in.
Warm or Hot Engine
  1. Turn the fuel valve to the ON position.
  2. Open throttle 1/8-1/4 turn.
  3. Turn on ignition/headlamp key switch and operate electric starter. DO NOT USE ENRICHENER.
  4. Raise jiffy stand.
NOTE
If the engine does not start after a few turns or if one cylinder fires weakly but engine does not start, it is usually because of an over-rich (flooded) condition. This is especially true of a hot engine. If the engine is flooded, push enrichener knob in all the way, turn ignition on and operate starter with throttle wide open. DO NOT pump the throttle while turning the engine over.