I own a 01 Harley sportster XLH 883, why does it have a "dead spot" at 70 mph on accelerate.?

Question

The condition started about a year ago. The bike runs fine right up to 70 mph to 80 mph, then has that "dead spot," sputters, then takes on off. This is very intermittent, no warning. Harley has looked at it several times and played with enricher, filter, carb gasket, gas valve... no luck. Anybody have an idea?

Answer 1

Sounds like it's lean, try a bigger main jet or move the needle up a notch (by moving the ring down)

Could also be floats or float needle causing intermittent fuel starvation.

Freak Show may be onto something ? an intake manifold O-ring leak is also a possibility.

Answer 2

You might want to consider replacing the intake seals too. They tend to dry out and leak. I think I read somewhere that they are good for about 4 years. I just replaced them in my Buell and it was an easy job.

If it is intermitent it probably isn't a jetting issue, but you never know. You can do a total carb rebuild and intake seals for just a little money and if you like to wrench it can actually be a fun project.

Go online and find a page that tells you the best base setup. Also, I don't think you can adjust the needle valve on a stock 883 without the little shims they have at the dealer. The last time I was there asking carb questions they just gave me a few free of charge to see if they helped.

Try www.sportster.org for a bunch of people who can help, or www.badweatherbikers.com has a harley section and I'm sure someone could help you even more.

Answer 3

I might be your spark advance. HDs go from idle timing to full advance instantly, not gradually like a car. It usually happens around 3K. Hope this helps.

Answer 4

the chick models have limitations.  Grow a set and buy a man's harley

Answer 5

I agree with Magz here. You need to ride that thing into a brick wall to acheive the desired result.

Answer 6

Are you running drag pipes if so try clamping a small piece of pipe (1/2 diameter, 3 inches long) see if that solves the midrange drop off....also sounds like you may have an s&s carb if so let me know then we can move to plan B...

Answer 7

didnt know an 883 could go that fast.

Answer 8

you've reached the bottom of the hill...

find a bigger hill to coast down...