• You're one step from joining Sportster Forum – Custom Mods, Performance Parts & Riding Tips.
    Create a free account to post, follow threads, and never miss an update.  Sign up free →

Battery cable gets loose

M4H4rley

New member
Joined
Aug 18, 2025
Messages
2
I have this recurring battery issue on my 2023 Sportster S where it seems my battery cables go loose. It happens often that when I go to start it after a quick break mid-ride, it won't start up. The lights and the screen are all flickering like crazy. I'd pop the seat, and sure enough, the negative battery cable is loose again. I've cleaned everything up and torqued the bolt down what feels like a solid amount, but I assume the vibration just seems to work it loose every time. It's left me stranded twice now, and I'm really getting tired of it, especially since my bike is fairly new. I've heard some guys mention Loctite, and I'm wondering if that's the way to go or if there's some other trick to get this to stay put once and for all. Any advice would be a lifesaver!
 
@M4H4rley Loctite blue will help, but make sure to also check if the terminal bolt is bottoming out before clamping tight. It's highly likely that a simple washer fix can make all the difference on your Sportster. I've heard others say the same... :)
 
I'm guessing this is due to the vibration? Anyway, whatever you do don't go for the red locktite, a friend of mine learned that lesion the hard way. Also, have you tried a washer or replacing the clamp?
 
Back
Top