Hey guys,

I have a 1999 Sportster 1200 with a S&S Super E Carb on it and today it started backfiring through the carb right after startup, then the engine shut off. Tested the spark plugs and the plugs are fine. Engine now just turns over, but won't fire. Sound like a timing issue or an actual issue with the ignition? Any advice?

I'm not familiar with harley stuff but you should check for spark. pull the plugs, connect them to the plug wire/coil, and hold the ground strap of the plug up against something conductive on the engine or frame. hold the starter and watch for spark jumping from the electrode to the ground strap. If you have good, strong spark it is either timing related or a fuel issue. A clogged pilot jet in the carb could cause a no start as well as a stuck float. Will it try to light off with the choke pulled?

Fully choked and no ignition. Just turns over. I checked the plugs earlier for spark and both arc to the metal.

Sounds like a fuel issue to me. These things usually don't jump time.

its leaned out if its backfiring through the carb

never took you for a bike guy since you're a ginger headed fuck, well at least when you're not shaving your head for charity lol


wish i knew anything about these, but there are a few guys here that should at least be able to get you going in the right direction


but to me it does sound like a fuel issue, how old is the bike? when was the last time the carbs were serviced?

good luck buddy

This post was edited by KoJ on Jun 3 2016 08:38am