'05 FLSTN, carbureted. Battery seems to be fine, don't see any loose connections or corrosion. What happens is when I hit the starter button, I hear a faint 'click', but nothing happens - doesn't even try to turn over. All the lights come on, etc., but that's it. After I push the starter button several times, it turns over fine and starts right up - cranks good, not like if the battery was low. The button and connections must be good because I am hearing that 'click', but I know one of these days it's just not going to start....Has anybody run into this, or have any ideas? I hate to just go out & buy a new starter to see if that'll fix it - I'm not rich enough for that kind of trial and error! Thanks to anybody that might be able to help!

 

loose connection somewhere

 

Take the cables off the battery and the ground to the frame. Clean them with a wire brush,file or sand paper, then tighten them back properly.
Tom

 

sounds like battery/battery connection. Usually when you hear the click, means the starter and starter switch (giving most conditions) are operating correctly. Def. check the ground connection like "tmitchellof PG" stated.

About a month ago, my bike would randomly not start, and all I would get was clicking when I hit the start button. Battery was low and not retaining charge. New battery and starts great now.

Whats the voltage on battery? Should be 12.8 just sitting there(12.6 would be low and mine wouldnt start).

 

Definitely a connection.

 

Thanks guys for the suggestions. I cleaned the terminals, checked connections, and reseated the starter relay - seems to work fine now; it'll just take a few starts and stops before I get confidence back in it - I'll be making sure to stop on a hill for a while though just so I don't have to push start!