2001 Harley Davidson Electra Glide Problems [Easy Fixes]

The 2001 Harley Davidson Electra Glide, while an iconic symbol of the open road, has had its share of mechanical problems that have frustrated owners over the years. 

Its quintessential design and roaring engine have been overshadowed by various issues, affecting the riding experience and overall reliability. 

In this article, we will dive into the common problems associated with this specific model, potential causes and suggested solutions to alleviate these concerns.

2001 Harley Davidson Electra Glide Problems 

One of the key issues that owners faced often encounter is related to the voltage regulator. Another issue is with the cam chain tensioner, which can cause a catastrophic engine failure if it breaks. 

However, some users have reported issues with the bike’s fuel injection system, leading to inconsistent throttle response and reduced performance. 

It’s also worth noting like many heavyweight touring motorcycles, it may exhibit excessive heat in stop-and-go traffic.

1. Voltage Regulator Problem 

The voltage regulator is an integral part of the motorcycle’s charging system. It controls the voltage generated from the alternator to keep it between 13.5 and 14.5 volts to power the battery and other electrical components.

A faulty voltage regulator can lead to several issues. Excessive voltage can result in blown fuses, burnt-out bulbs, and damage to the battery and electronic components. 

On the other hand, insufficient voltage can cause the battery to drain quickly, resulting in difficulties in starting the motorcycle or keeping it running.

Owners have reported symptoms of a faulty voltage regulator, such as dim headlights, weak horns, or the ‘battery’ warning light on the dash. 

If you encounter any of these symptoms, it’s advisable to take immediate steps to diagnose the issue. You can use a multimeter to check the voltage in the battery.

If the reading exceeds 14.5 volts or falls below 13.5 volts when the engine is running, it’s likely a sign of a malfunctioning voltage regulator.

If you suspect that the voltage regulator is at fault, then you will need to replace it with a new one.

2. Overheating 

This problem often results in an excessive increase in engine temperature, especially during prolonged rides in hot weather or in heavy traffic.

The overheating can be due to an inefficient cooling system, which could be due to a malfunctioning thermostat cooling fan or a clogged radiator. 

Regular inspection and maintenance of these components can ensure the motorcycle’s cooling system operates effectively.

Another possible cause could be a low level of engine coolant, which is important to prevent the engine from overheating. 

Also, using high-quality engine oil that has excellent heat dissipation properties can aid in controlling the engine temperature.

Lastly, a poorly tuned engine can contribute to overheating. If the air and fuel mixture isn’t right or the engine timing is off, the engine may overwork and produce excessive heat. 

3. Oil Pump Issue 

This critical component is responsible for circulating oil throughout the engine to maintain optimal operating temperature and ensure smooth performance.

The oil pump issue typically results in reduced oil pressure, which may ultimately lead to severe engine damage if not addressed promptly. 

You may notice a drop in performance, increased engine heat, or unusual noises as symptoms of this problem.

Here are some basic steps to solving this issue:

• Start by checking the oil pressure gauge while the bike is in operation. If it shows a reading lower than the standard, it signals a potential oil pump issue.
• Remove and examine the oil filter for metal shavings. If present, they indicate internal engine wear, which is often due to inadequate oil circulation. 
• Also, check the oil quality. If it’s thick or contaminated, it might be hindering the oil pump’s function.
• If the above checks do not reveal any issues, it’s time to inspect the oil pump itself. 
• This process involves removing and disassembling the oil pump to check for wear or damage. 
• Depending on the condition of the oil pump, a repair or complete replacement may be necessary. 
• Always use genuine Harley Davidson parts for replacement to ensure performance and longevity.

4. Cam Chain Tensioner Issue 

The cam chain tensioner, an integral part of the motorcycle’s engine, is designed to maintain the correct tension in the chain that drives the camshafts.

However, in the Electra Glide model, these tensioners tend to wear out prematurely, creating the potential for serious engine damage.

When the cam chain tensioner wears out, it causes a variety of issues, such as unusual noise in the engine and poor performance, which leads to engine failure. 

The worn-out pieces may break off and scatter throughout the engine, causing damage to other engine components.

In order to fix the issue and inspect the cam chain tensioner, you need to remove the cam cover, which may require special tools and a new gasket. 

If replacement is necessary, it’s best to consider upgrading to a hydraulic tensioner system for better durability and reliability. 

You should also check or replace the cam chain tensioner after every 15,000 to 20,000 miles. 

5. Fuel Injection System Issue 

This model has been known to experience issues with its fuel injection system. This issue can cause the bike to run unevenly, lower its fuel mileage, and sometimes even cause the engine to stop. 

The main problem is that the fuel injectors, which give the engine the right amount of fuel, can get blocked or not work properly. 

If this happens, the engine doesn’t get the fuel it needs to run at its best, which leads to the problems mentioned.

If you’re experiencing these issues, the first step to resolving the problem is checking the fuel injectors for any signs of blockage or wear and tear.

This can be done by removing the injectors and inspecting them visually. 

If you notice any clogs, these can usually be cleared with a special fuel injector cleaner, which can be found at most automotive parts stores.

In some cases, the problem may be more serious and may require the services of a professional mechanic. 

6. Transmission Issue 

Riders have noted that the bike tends to jump out of gear, specifically when shifting from second to third gear. 

This can result in the motorcycle unexpectedly returning to neutral, presenting a safety hazard.

This issue primarily stems from the wear and tear of the transmission shifting drum and the shift forks. 

These components are responsible for moving the gears to engage or disengage them. 

Prolonged use or aggressive riding can cause these parts to wear out, leading to the aforementioned issue.

Addressing this problem would require a detailed inspection of the internal transmission components. 

This task is best left to a qualified motorcycle mechanic due to its complexity. However, it is possible to prolong the lifespan of these transmission components.

Rider Reviews on 2001 Harley Electra Glide:

By Afmoto

“It’s 2001, I didn’t want to tie up too much money for a bike that was essentially a gamble that my wife might actually start riding with me. Unless someone really knows Harleys, I don’t know that most people could tell the difference between 2001 and 2010. Not sure I want to spend the extra money for a 2010 anyway, at a mellow pace there really aren’t any handling issues and I’m being super-careful, borderline paranoid about not doing anything that might frighten my wife. I dragged the floorboards plenty of times during the Spring Fling while riding solo but there is no way I will push the bike that hard when my wife is with me. It is not a high performance motorcycle by any stretch of the imagination.”  Source: motorcyclenews.com