Harley ECM Password Learn Procedure
When installing a new ignition or ECM on a security-equipped Harley there is a “Password Learn” procedure that must be performed. This applies to all Twin Cam and V-Rod models with factory security but may also apply to Twin Cam’s with EFI. The TSM/TSSM and ECM have “learned” passwords that synchronize the control module with several other components. Once you remove a component from this chain the module shuts down and won’t start. This is reported to only occur with EFI models but the new 2004 carbureted models demonstrate the same shut-down when changing the ignition module. Once you have installed the ignition module and reconnected the battery, perform the starting sequence as normal. The engine will cough once in an effort to start but will fail when the module shuts off the fuel. Special Note: During the Password Learning procedure the ignition will remain in the “On” position for an extended period of time (30+ minutes). While “On”, power is supplied to the headlight thus draining the battery. If the battery charge drops below a certain level during the Password Learn procedure the process will cease and you will have to start over. To avoid this connect a trickle charger to the battery throughout the procedure. Download the Password Learn procedure in PDF for printing.| Step | Action | Confirmation | Notes |
| 1 | Set Run switch to Run | – | – |
| 2 | Turn Ignition key On-Off-On-Off-On-Off-On and then toggle the Left Turn Signal switch twice. | – | – |
| 3 | Turn Ignition key Off-On | Verify the Check Engine lamp and Security Lamp illuminate briefly and then turn off. | Security lamp will not illuminate on non-security (TSM) Twin Cam models. |
| 4 | Attempt normal start one time. | Engine starts and stalls immediately. check engine lamp stays on. | Password has not been learned and sets trouble code P1009, thus stopping fuel flow. |
| 5 | Wait 10 seconds | Security Lamp remains lit for V-Rod and TC88 with TSSM. Lamp will not be on for TC88 TSM models. | ECM enters Password Learning mode for 10 minutes. Do Not cycle the ignition or disrupt power. |
| 6 | Wait until Security Lamp turns off or a minimum of 10 minutes has passed. | – | – |
| 7 | Quickly (within 2 seconds) turn Ignition key OFF-ON | Security Lamp remains lit for V-Rod and TC88 with TSSM. Lamp will not be on for TC88 TSM models. | – |
| 8 | Wait until Security Lamp turns off or a minimum of 10 minutes has passed. | – | Password Learning mode for 10 minutes. Do Not cycle the ignition or disrupt power. |
| 9 | Quickly (within 2 seconds) turn Ignition key OFF-ON | Security Lamp remains lit for V-Rod and TC88 with TSSM. Lamp will not be on for TC88 TSM models. | – |
| 10 | Wait until Security Lamp turns off or a minimum of 10 minutes has passed. | – | Password Learning mode for 10 minutes. Do Not cycle the ignition or disrupt power. |
| 11 | Quickly (within 2 seconds) turn Ignition key OFF-ON | Security Lamp light and then turn off. Lamp will not be on for TC88 TSM models. | – |
| 12 | Turn Ignition switch OFF . Wait 15 seconds. Turn Ignition switch ON and start engine to confirm the Password Learn Procedure is successful. | Engine will start and remain running. If engine immediately stalls and fails to restart the procedure was not successful. Start over at step 1. | – |
| The above steps must be timed and performed exactly as described. Any deviation will require you to start again from step 1. | |||
View printable copy of Password Learn procedure. Enjoy the Ride!