Indian Motorcycle Chief Vintage

Other manuals for Indian Motorcycle Chief Vintage

Service Manual325 pages

Rider's Manual176 pages

Questions and Answers

L
lisaodomAug 4, 2025
What to do if my Indian Motorcycle starter motor clicks, does not turn or turns slowly?
- A
  Ashley HicksAug 4, 2025
  If your Indian Motorcycle's starter motor clicks, doesn't turn, or turns slowly, here are a few things to check: First, ensure the engine stop/run switch is in the RUN position. A discharged battery can also cause this issue, so fully charge the battery. Inspect the battery cables for looseness or corrosion. Make sure the transmission is in neutral, or pull the clutch lever in to disengage the clutch. Ensure the key fob is within range and that the key fob battery voltage is not low. Lastly, the sidestand should be retracted fully if the transmission is in gear.
F
fsmithAug 8, 2025
Why Indian Motorcycle engine cranks but will not start?
- D
  Dawn DoughertyAug 8, 2025
  Several factors can prevent your Indian Motorcycle engine from starting even when it cranks. It could be due to low fuel, so verify the fuel level. Another cause could be an inoperative fuel pump; in this case, turn the engine STOP switch to RUN, turn the power switch on as the fuel pump should run momentarily and then stop, and check the fuel pump/ignition circuit breaker. A low battery voltage can also be the culprit, so fully charge the battery. Fouled spark plugs or disconnected/loose spark plug wires could also be the reason; inspect the spark plugs and ensure the wires are securely fastened. Finally, low compression could be the issue; please see your dealer for an engine compression test.
R
ramirezelizabethAug 12, 2025
What to do if Anti-Lock Brake light remains illuminated or illuminates intermittently on Indian Motorcycle?
- D
  David ParkerAug 13, 2025
  If the anti-lock brake light remains illuminated or illuminates intermittently on your Indian Motorcycle, it could be due to a blown fuse, so check the fuses. Another cause may be a loose or damaged pulse ring, thus inspect the pulse ring for looseness or chipped teeth. It may also be due to debris lodged in components, so inspect the wheel speed sensor and pulse ring for debris. Also, it may be damage caused by debris, thus inspect wheel speed sensor for cracked housing. For damaged components, see service manual or authorized dealer.
S
Seth WoodAug 17, 2025
Why does my Indian Motorcycle engine start but misses or runs poorly?
- D
  Deborah BurnettAug 17, 2025
  If your Indian Motorcycle engine starts but misses or runs poorly, several factors could be responsible. A discharged battery or loose/corroded battery cables can cause this, so fully charge the battery and inspect the battery cables and connections. Fouled spark plugs or loose/wet spark plug wires are also potential causes; inspect the spark plugs and ensure the spark plug wires are dry and secure. Other possibilities include contaminated fuel (inspect fuel for water/contamination), incorrect engine oil level or wrong type (inspect level and quality of oil), loose, broken, or shorted ignition coil wires (inspect coil primary wires), a restricted air intake (inspect air filter), or intake leaks (inspect air box, throttle body, and intake boot joints).
G
Gary WalkerAug 21, 2025
What causes brake noise or poor brake performance on Indian Motorcycle?
- K
  Kendra HopkinsAug 21, 2025
  Brake noise or poor brake performance on your Indian Motorcycle can stem from a few issues. Dust or dirt on the brake discs can cause noise, so clean the disc. Worn pads or disc/brake disc damage can also lead to poor performance, so inspect pads. Additionally, a low brake fluid level or contaminated fluid can be the cause, so inspect fluid level/fluid condition.
R
Ronald AndersonAug 26, 2025
Why are there shifting difficulties or hard to find neutral on my Indian Motorcycle?
- C
  Claire MaysAug 26, 2025
  Shifting difficulties or finding neutral on your Indian Motorcycle can be attributed to several factors. Dry or worn shift linkage bushings can cause this, so lubricate the shift linkage. Clutch damage could also be the problem, requiring clutch replacement. For issues related to clutch cable or shift linkage adjustments, please see your dealer for inspection and adjustment.
D
Danielle CarpenterAug 29, 2025
Why is the battery charging rate low or battery discharges on my Indian Motorcycle?
- D
  Debra HuntAug 29, 2025
  A low battery charging rate or a battery that discharges on your Indian Motorcycle may be due to a loose or corroded charging circuit connection, therefore check and clean battery cable connections and charging circuit connections. Another cause may be that the accessory load exceeds charge rate, thus limit accessory operation when the engine is off. For issues related to improperly wired accessories, please see your dealer to check charging system output and current draw.

Summary

Introduction

Identification Number Records

Record important vehicle identification numbers for future reference.

Service and Warranty Information

Information on obtaining service and understanding warranty coverage for your motorcycle.

Engine Identification Number

Locate and record the engine number for identification purposes.

Safety Guidelines

About the Riders Manual

Guidance on how to best use the rider's manual for safe operation.

Safe Riding Practices

Essential practices for safe motorcycle operation and riding.

General Riding Safety

Key safety guidelines to follow before and during motorcycle operation.

Passenger Safety and Carrying Cargo

Guidelines for safely carrying a passenger and cargo on the motorcycle.

Protective Apparel and Accessories

Recommendations for protective gear and guidelines for accessories.

Modifications, Parking, and Transport Safety

Warnings on modifications, proper parking, and safe transport procedures.

Fuel, Exhaust, and Maintenance Safety

Safety precautions for fuel, exhaust systems, and maintenance tasks.

System Safety Information

Information on electromagnetic interference and Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR).

Reporting Safety Defects

Procedures for reporting safety defects to NHTSA and Indian Motorcycle.

Safety and Information Labels

Identification and explanation of various safety and information labels on the motorcycle.

Component Identification

Console Components

Identification of components located on the motorcycle's console.

Handlebar Switch Locations

Diagrams showing the location of various switches on the handlebars.

Model-Specific Controls

Identification of controls specific to different motorcycle models.

Switch Symbols and Functions

A guide to the symbols used for various switches and their functions.

Key Switches and Ignition

Explanation of power, hazard, engine start/run switches, and keyless ignition.

Audio, Cruise Control, and Lighting Switches

Details on operating audio, cruise control, headlight, and auxiliary light switches.

Toggle, Heated Grips, and Lock Switches

Operation of toggle switches, heated grips, and saddlebag/trunk lock switches.

Seat Heater Switches

Operation of seat heater switches.

Instruments and Displays

Instrument Cluster Overview (Chief;Springfield)

Identification of speedometer, indicator lamps, and MFD on Chief/Springfield clusters.

Indicator Lamps Guide

A table detailing the function of various indicator lamps on the instrument cluster.

Multi-Function Display (MFD) Indicators

Explanation of MFD indicators, including cruise control and oil pressure.

MFD Modes and Data Displays

Details on MFD modes, odometer, engine speed, voltage, temp, fuel range, and economy.

Heated Grips and Clock Settings

How to adjust heated grips and set the motorcycle's clock.

Diagnostic Functionality and Error Codes

How the motorcycle displays diagnostic messages and engine error codes.

Misfire Detection

How the motorcycle detects and indicates misfires.

Instrument Cluster Overview (Chieftain;Roadmaster)

Identification of components on the Chieftain/Roadmaster instrument cluster.

Infotainment Display Settings

Options for customizing the infotainment display.

Trip Meters and Fuel Data

How to view and reset trip meter data and fuel economy.

Tire Pressure and Engine Oil Status

How to view current tire pressure and engine oil status.

Speed, Voltage, and Audio Information

Display of average speed, battery voltage, and expanded audio info.

Heated Grips and Diagnostic Codes

Display of heated grips settings and diagnostic trouble codes.

Retrieving Error Codes

Steps to retrieve and display error codes from the DTC menu.

Instrument Cluster Setup and Clock Setting

Overview of setup menus and procedures for setting the clock.

Setting Measurement Units

Options for setting distance, volume, temperature, and pressure units.

Set Bottom Screen Menu

Options for customizing the bottom display screen.

Gauge Information and TPMS Setup

Accessing gauge info and procedures for setting up the TPMS.

Set Brightness

Methods for adjusting the instrument cluster display brightness.

Headlights and Throttle Control

Information on headlight operation and throttle grip usage.

Clutch and Gear Shift Levers

How to operate the clutch and gear shift levers for smooth operation.

Trunk, Saddlebags, and Side Stand

Information on trunk/saddlebag systems, removal, and side stand operation.

Windshield and Brake System

Procedures for windshield operation and information on brake systems.

Brake Levers;Pedals and Fluid Checks

Information on brake levers, pedals, fluid levels, and lines.

Passenger Floorboards and Fuel Cap

Adjusting passenger floorboards and operating the fuel cap.

Pre-Ride Inspections

Pre-Ride Inspection Overview

Importance and procedure for performing pre-ride inspections.

Electrical and General Inspections

Checks related to electrical systems and general components before riding.

Engine Oil Level Check

Procedures for checking the engine oil level.

Tire Inspections and Pressure

Importance of tire condition, tread depth, and pressure for safe riding.

Brake System Checks

Checking front/rear brake fluid levels, levers, pedals, and lines.

Throttle, Sidestand, and Clutch Checks

Inspecting throttle, sidestand, and mechanical clutch for proper function.

Fasteners, Suspension, and Steering Checks

Inspecting fasteners, suspension, and steering for safety.

Rear Suspension and Drive Belt Inspection

Inspecting rear suspension and the rear drive belt condition.

Fuel Level Check

Checking the fuel level in the tank.

Operation

Operation Overview and Engine Break-In

Introduction to operation and guidelines for the initial engine break-in period.

Operating Speeds and Gears

Recommended speeds and gear shifts for break-in and normal operation.

Fueling and Starting the Engine

Safe procedures for refueling and starting the motorcycle's engine.

Shifting Gears

How to shift gears for smooth operation, stationary and driving.

Recommended Shift Points

A table detailing recommended shift points for upshifting and downshifting.

Braking, Accelerating, and Stopping

Guidelines for effective braking, accelerating, and stopping the engine.

Cruise Control Operation

How to operate the motorcycle's cruise control system and related tips.

Parking Procedures

General procedures for parking the motorcycle safely.

Maintenance Procedures

Safety During Service Procedures

Critical safety precautions to follow before and during maintenance.

Road Tests and Break-In Maintenance

Procedures for road tests and maintenance checks during break-in.

Periodic Maintenance Schedule

A table outlining maintenance tasks at different mileage intervals.

Engine Oil and Filter Change

Procedures for changing the engine oil and oil filter.

Air Filter Inspection and Replacement

Inspection and replacement of the air filter.

Rear Drive Belt Maintenance

Cleaning, condition check, and wear analysis of the rear drive belt.

Rear Shock Preload and Air Pressure Adjustment

Inspecting and adjusting rear shock preload and air pressure.

Axle, Fork, and Steering Head Inspections

Inspecting swing arm, rear axle, front fork, and steering head.

Emission Control, Fuel System, and Throttle

Inspecting emission control, fuel system, throttle, and clutch components.

Brake System Maintenance

Procedures for maintaining brake fluid, hoses, pedals, and discs.

Brake Pad and ABS System Inspection

Inspecting brake pads, ABS sensors, wheels, spokes, and alignment.

Tire Maintenance and Spark Plugs

Information on tire condition, pressure, and spark plug replacement.

Seat and Headlight Maintenance

Procedures for seat removal/installation and headlight aim adjustment.

Headlight Lamp Replacement

Procedures for replacing headlight and taillight/brake lights.

Battery and Key Fob Maintenance

Information about the battery and key fob maintenance.

Fuse Replacement and Electrical Precautions

Procedures for fuse replacement and electrical system safety.

Security System and Troubleshooting

Unlocking the security system, changing PIN, and general troubleshooting.

Engine and Brake Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting engine issues, starting problems, and brake performance.

Cleaning and Storage

Cleaning Products and Washing Procedures

Recommended products and steps for washing the motorcycle.

Windshield and Finish Care

Proper care and cleaning for windshields and matte/gloss finishes.

Leather Care and Storage Preparation

Leather care instructions and preparing the motorcycle for storage.

Battery Care and Fuel Stabilization

Procedures for battery care and using fuel stabilizer during storage.

Rodent Prevention and Motorcycle Covering

Preventing rodent damage and covering the motorcycle for storage.

Specifications

Dimensions

Specifications for overall dimensions of the motorcycle models.

Weight and Capacities

Specifications for the weight and fluid capacities of motorcycle models.

Engine and Drive System Specifications

Detailed engine and drive system specifications for the motorcycle.

Chassis, Wheels, and Tires Specifications

Specifications for chassis, wheels, and tires.

Electrical and Fluid Recommendations

Specifications for electrical components and recommended fluids.

Warranty Information

Indian Motorcycle Warranty Policy

Overview of the Indian Motorcycle warranty policy and its limitations.

Registration and Service

Procedures for registering the motorcycle and obtaining warranty service.

Coverage Limitations and Liabilities

Details on what the warranty covers, exclusions, and liabilities.

Legal Rights and Exported Vehicles

Information on legal rights, exported vehicles, and noise regulations.

Emissions Control System Warranty

Statement of warranty rights and coverage for emissions control.

Owner Responsibilities and General Coverage

Owner's responsibilities and details on warranty coverage.

Infotainment Display

Display Overview and Rider Screen

Introduction to the display system and the customizable rider screen.

Customizing Rider Screen Layouts

How to customize the left and right-hand sides of the rider screens.

Audio System Operation

How to access and operate the audio system, including source selection.

Tuner Operation and Presets

How to use the tuner to find and save radio stations.

Display On;Off and Bluetooth Pairing

Turning the display on/off and pairing Bluetooth devices.

Navigation System Usage

How to use the navigation system for searching addresses and routes.

Map Controls and POI Search

Using map controls and finding points of interest (POI).

Touchscreen Settings and Customization

Personalizing navigation system settings via the touchscreen.

System Settings: General, Time, Audio, Vehicle

General, time, audio, and vehicle settings for the infotainment system.

Software and Map Updates

Procedures for downloading and installing new software and maps.

Maintenance Log

Maintenance Logbook

A logbook for recording maintenance performed on the motorcycle.

Indian Motorcycle Chief Vintage Specifications

General

Transmission	6-speed
Fuel Capacity	5.5 gallons
Rear Tire	180/65B16 81H
Fuel System	Closed loop fuel injection / 54mm bore
Final Drive	Belt
Front Suspension	Telescopic Fork
Rear Suspension	Single Shock
Engine Type	Thunder Stroke 111
Displacement	1811 cc
Seat Height	26 in (660 mm)
Brakes	Hydraulic disc brakes
Front Tire	130/90B16
Bore x Stroke	4.449 in
Peak Torque	3000 rpm
Front Brake	Dual 300mm floating rotor with 4-piston caliper
Rear Brake	300mm floating rotor with 2-piston caliper
Wheelbase	65.7 inches