How do you remove the ignition switch to see if it is bad?

[rocket51]

I am trying to see if my ignition switch is bad but don't see any info in my service manual about removing it. I have gas tank up but haven't figured out how to remove the switch.

 

[tdragger]

Sorry, can't help you too much as I don't have the Touring model. However, if there are some similarities, the switch is mounted with breakaway torque bolts. To remove them, you can either tap a groove into the top of it with a flat screwdriver (or dremel or hacksaw blade) then remove the bolts.

The switch body itself is two parts. You can remove the lower cover to inspect. It may look something like this:

 

[rocket51]

Thanks tdragger. I am going outside to see if I can implement your directions. I think the ignition switch is the same as touring. Will I need to get new bolts to reinstall?

 

[idk]

You will, but they are a standard metric thread and you should be able to get them quite easily from an auto parts store or even Home Depot.

 

[albertaduke]

You will, but they are a standard metric thread and you should be able to get them quite easily from an auto parts store or even Home Depot.

while you have the barrel out of the front location consider the kit for moving the ignition to the left side cover much easier location should you need to look into it in the future I have done just that and I am glad I did..

 

[rocket51]

thanks idk and duke. I will have to resume job tommorrow as I have to go to my job now.

 

[Greeny]

Hi, I have had the ignition switch go twice and have now replaced it with a after market Harley switch. No problem since. The switch does get very hot in slow traffic, so i removed the chrome plate behind the headlight to let more air through.

 

[idk]

Of course, the best solution is to go to a keyless ignition system - with a digital remote switch.

 

[HansO]

Hi, I have had the ignition switch go twice and have now replaced it with a after market Harley switch. No problem since. The switch does get very hot in slow traffic, so i removed the chrome plate behind the headlight to let more air through.

Have you considered get a headlight relay kit, it will solve the heat problem once and for all and give you brighter headlights, there is the EB kit or if you live anywhere near Evil Mitch (he has fitted a couple for a couple of QLD guys that I have made them for) I could make you one of mine, I only charge cost to me at $55 that includes postage in Aus

 

[rocket51]

Hanso I installed the EB kit at 13K. Greeny what did you have to do to get the starter switch housing off. I have what looks like two small rods that hold two thin pieces of metal that hold switch housing in place. Looks like I can drill top and that housing will lift off.