Greetings everyone. I recently experienced a problem with my 2015 FXDB whereby the motorbike shut down twice while on the highway. The speedometer showed “tip”, and I was forced to stop, turn off and then start up the bike again. After researching this issue, I discovered some advice regarding how to detect and even bypass the sensor by understanding the Harley tip over sensor location. Let’s dive in.
What is the Tip Over Sensor?
Harley Davidson motorcycles feature a revolutionary safety system known as the Tip Over Sensor or Bank Angle Sensor (BAS). This remarkable device is designed to shut off the engine of your motorcycle if it should ever tip over, thereby avoiding further injury and/or damage. So make sure you ride safe knowing that BAS has got your back.
Harley Tip Over Sensor Location
The TTS (turn signal module) or the TSSM on bikes with security, feature a tip-over sensor. For most models, the Harley tip over sensor location is incorporated into the BCM (Body Control Module), which can be discovered behind the left side electrical caddy cover beneath your seat. It’s a large flat piece that rests horizontally above the fuse block.
To make sure you have the correct part, carefully disconnect it from the bike while still plugged in. Once that’s done, start up your engine and turn over the module on its side – if you find yourself with a “tip” reading on your speedometer display then congratulations-you’ve identified this piece as the Body Control Module.
For older Harley models, you will find the tip over sensor connected to a bracket on the backside of the electrical panel using an adjustable screw and top coil bracket nut. It can be quite tricky to access since it is typically hidden behind and above the starter motor. To get at it, you may need to fully remove all sub-panels in addition to pulling out your entire electrical box assembly.
Troubleshooting the Tip Over Sensor
To begin, double-check that the module is in its original spot and securely seated. If you don’t find any issues upon inspection but it’s still not working properly, bringing your bike to a shop could be beneficial, particularly if it’s under warranty.
Additionally, to test the tilt sensor, you can attempt placing a magnet above the sensor so that it pulls up on the inner metal disk off of its seat – this should make your bike start and function normally again. If all goes well with testing then chances are your tilt sensor is doing just fine.
Bypassing the Tip Over Sensor
If you want to bypass the tip over sensor, first identify the Harley tip over sensor location, then disconnect the sensor and short the wires together. Note that there are three wires:
- Light green/gray, which goes to the Ignition Module
- Gray, which is switched hot from the ignition switch
- Black, which is ground
If you’re not sure how to proceed, consulting a specialist mechanic or Harley Davidson technician may be your best bet. Tampering with the wires without knowing their purpose could potentially damage the ignition module – so it pays to be on the safe side.
Disabling the Tip Over Sensor for Track Use
Are you constructing a competitive race bike and the tip over sensor is creating problems on tight turns? You can disable it by connecting the two B+ wires. This was designed as a mechanical switch, with contact made between two metal strips that are V-shaped and contain a steel ball in their center.
When the bike tilts, the ball rolls and loses touch with it. Connecting two wires enables you to disregard where exactly the ball lands; your bike will still stay in motion.
Keep in mind that disabling or circumventing the tip over sensor can void your warranty, so it’s essential to understand all potential hazards first. When tinkering with your motorcycle, always bear safety as the topmost priority.
There you have it. I hope this information was able to help you out in finding the Harley tip over sensor location on your bike. If any of your queries remain unanswered, never fear as fellow riders and Harley Davidson technicians are more than willing to come to your aid. Here’s wishing everyone a safe journey ahead.