there WAS a code reader that you could plug into the diagnostic port, it is an obsolete item now ( there is one sitting with my bike in FL that is useless since I run a Thundermax ECU, and there is a way to jump 2 pins on the diagnostic connector that will then flash the CEL in a kind of ancient code to tell you the stored codes....

 

https://www.hdforums.com/forum/softa...des-dtc-s.html

 

Loosening the gas cap did not do it. I would like to try the Crank Position Sensor, probably not a bad idea at 100K miles to change this before it screws me anyway. Even if it turns out to not be the problem, at least it is changed. Easy to get to and like $60. Almost a maintenance item at this many miles. Anyone know the correct part number? Google brings up to many choices, I want to stay with genuine Harley on these sensors.

 

try the 4 dollar can of starting fluid first will you!

There are mechanics who do proper diagnostics, and there are people who just keep replacing parts until something finally works.

If you want to rule out the crank sensor, and verify spark, bring a spare plug with you and when it dies pull a plug wire, put the spare plug on the lead, ground the ground strap by touching it to the engine or using a clip lead and crank it looking for spark.

Air Fuel Spark Compression, lets assume you have the first and last, fuel can be simulated with starting fluid, spark can be verified as I described above. And it does not have to cost you more than 10 bucks for a can of starting fluid and a spark plug

 

PS if your tach shows 300 rpm's or so while you spin it trying to start it after it dies, your CPS is good.

 

I will carry the starting fluid. But I am still replacing the CPS as a maintenance item. To many cars have left me sidelined over a CPS, $60 is cheap. I don't mind being a parts changer on something like this.

 

Take a can of compressed air and when it dies spray the coil to cool it down and see if it runs. Mine ended up being a bad injector.

 

Good idea on the canned air, will carry that also. I ordered the CPS, will install do the test in a couple days. Now if the breakdown would happen somewhere I can tinker with it, last time was super high traffic area, hard to avoid where I live. I hate not being to trust the bike.

 

Sorry for such a long delay in reporting back. The CPS was the issue. All is well now. Thanks everyone for the great support.