Half the time my Heritage won't start while in gear/clutch in. I have to put it in neutral to get it to light. I've seen plenty of post on the subject, but mostly from those with touring models and trikes. I'm aware that the touring/trike models have a TSB (M1468) out on this subject...

https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/20...35420-9999.pdf

See that for the touring models/trikes they replace the LHCM and the clutch lever.

What's the story on the Softails? Anybody had the problem? Any simple solutions?

 

hav had 2 replaced under warranty. ('18 Heritage 114) finally a tech told me rain gets in there, last time put some clear silicone in cracks around bars. no problem for 2yrs now. btw, I had that happen on a 2017 Roadglide M8, it is somehow connected to the ecm on the tourning models. it will drive you crazy, idling up and down and lugging.

 

Mine went out, they replaced it under warranty. Keep on your toes if you have cruise control, they were going to replace the left hand controls with a normal one, I caught it in time and they had to order a cruise-enabled lhcm.

 

So... I had a moment today to take a closer look at this. The switch appears to still be functioning fine. If I use my finger to depress the switch fully, the bike will kick over. If I use the clutch lever, nothing. I've got Avon grips on the thing. Apparently the grips have a larger circumference than stock, preventing the clutch lever from fully actuating the clutch switch.

Hmmm... I like the grips... Solutions? Shim with something or set screw...or...

 

I would try a different lever first before shimming or set screw. Maybe a lever with a slightly different angle on it to clear the grips will push the switch all the way in.
You could always get a small tab of adhesive backed metal tape and try that to shim.

 

Build up the lever face with couple/few layers of aluminum foil tape and trim to the right dimensions. Will never see it if trimmed properly.

 

I had the same issue on my 2018 Heritage Classic.

Had to have it replaced under ESP at I think around 28,000 miles.

No issues since.

 

Used a Qtip and put a drop of 3-1 oil on the plunger on 17 RK after dicking with the dealer twice over that switch they wouldn't replace. Haven't had a problem since.

 

When my 2022 Heritage 114 wont start with clutch in and in gear I let the clutch out and pull it back in while still in gear and it always starts then.