Problems starting....2008 Nightster XL1200N

[gabe468]

I haven't changed the battery since I bought the bike in 2008, but I will be doing that very soon. I had the battery charging on the HD charger and when it was ready I tried to start it and only got a clicking noise, engine did not turn over. The clicking noise is that the starter? I'm thinking the battery needs to be replaced, but let me know what you all think.

 

[glider]

3 Years on a battery is about average, some get more but I would remove the battery cables and wire brush them and the terminals and reinstall them then. Neg off first and on last.

Chances are you have a poor connection at the battery cables. If that doesn't do it have the battery load tested.

 

[Hoople]

Place a voltmeter meter across the battery. Does the meter reading fall like a rock when you hear the clicking noise.

 

[gabe468]

Thank you for the advice I will do.