Hey,
Ok, here is my dilemma; 2001 xlhc sporty has been running fine. I got to start it today and as I turn the ignition on, headline and taillight turn on with the key turned to ACC. I turn the key to IGNITION. I set the switch to RUN and hit the start button and big click and then everything shurts off. Turn the key off and back on, and I have nothing.
What I have done: Battery reads 13.4volts; tightened the battery cables; replaced the 15 amp fuses, (1 was blown); replaced the starter relay; replaced the 30 amp circuit breaker, checked the continuity and both the terminals have juice. I wait 20 minutes and the circuit breaker has re-set, so I turn the key switch on and headligh and running lights are on; click the start button and big click and everything shuts down; I am thinking it is the 30 amp circuit breaker that is shutting down. I have ordered a replacment key switch which I will install on Friday. If the key switch doesn't fix the issue, I am open to any suggestions.

 

Something seems to be shorting. Have you used a multimeter and checked switches, etc? Do you have fuses, or circuit breakers?

John

 

I would check for a loose connection where the bikes negative ground cable (coming directly from the battery) is bolted to the engine block.

If this connection were to become loose it would allow enough contact for the low amperage draw of the lights to function, but when the much larger amperage draw of starting occurs there isn't enough solid contact between lug and lug meeting surface/bolt/stud to complete the circuit - and it arcs out, which may be the "big click" you're hearing just prior to everything shutting off. Look for signs of electrical arcing (splashed bright copper/black soot) at the lug and engine block, and if found, remove the connection and clean the cable lug and mating surfaces with a wire brush, then reassemble tightly, adding battery anti-corrosion spray if desired.

I hope it's that simple

 

Hey John, I agree, something is shorting. I will check the ground strap first and then let you know what I find.