Harley Code P1356 is an error message that appears on Harley motorcycles, indicating an issue with the rear cylinder combustion. This code can be a cause for concern for many riders, but understanding what it means and how to handle it can go a long way in maintaining the performance and longevity of your bike. So what else do you need to know? Let’s get into it.

What Does Harley Code P1356 Mean?

The primary meaning of Harley Code P1356 is “Rear Cylinder No Combustion.” In simpler terms, this error code indicates that there’s an issue with the combustion process in the rear cylinder of the motorcycle. The problem could stem from various factors such as faulty spark plugs, ineffective plug wires, or a problematic fuel pump, among others.

Here’s a break down of all of the codes (including this one) in one place:
– Unlock the Power of Harley Diagnostic Codes (PDF Included) (theseasonedwrench.com)

What Can Cause This Code?

Several factors can trigger Harley Code P1356. Let’s enumerate some of the most common ones:

1. Faulty Spark Plugs: If The Spark Plugs In The Rear Cylinder Are Worn Out, Damaged, Or Improperly Installed, This Could Result In The P1356 Code.
2. Ineffective Plug Wires: Similar To Faulty Spark Plugs, Ineffective Or Damaged Plug Wires Can Also Lead To This Error Code.
3. Problematic Fuel Pump: Issues With The Fuel Pump, Such As A Faulty Fuel Flange Or A Pinhole In The In-Tank Fuel Line, Can Prevent Proper Combustion In The Rear Cylinder, Leading To The P1356 Code.
4. Bad Wiring On Injectors: Damaged Wiring On The Injectors Near The Plug Can Also Cause This Error Code.
5. Power Commander Issues: If You Have A Power Commander Installed In Your Bike, It Could Sometimes Be The Cause Of The P1356 Code, Especially If It’s Malfunctioning Or Improperly Installed.

Impact of Aftermarket Mods

Aftermarket modifications can alter the motorcycle’s air-fuel ratio, ignition timing, and overall engine performance. While these modifications are intended to enhance performance, they can sometimes introduce variables that the motorcycle’s ECM (Engine Control Module) is not programmed to handle, leading to codes like P1356.

Should You Be Concerned?

While Harley Code P1356 is not a cause for panic, it should not be ignored either. This error code indicates a problem with the combustion process in your rear cylinder, which, if left unresolved, could lead to more severe issues down the line. It’s always a good idea to address this code as soon as it appears to prevent further damage to your motorcycle.

Diagnostic Steps for Code P1356

Check and Replace Spark Plugs and Wires:

Inspect spark plugs for wear or damage. Ensure they are correctly gapped and free of excessive anti-seize compound. Check spark plug wires for any signs of wear or damage and replace if necessary.Fuel System Inspection:

Examine the fuel pump, pressure regulator, and in-tank fuel lines for leaks or damage. A pinhole leak, often overlooked, can lead to combustion issues.

Aftermarket Modifications Review:

For motorcycles with aftermarket modifications like Power Commanders or custom exhaust systems, consider temporarily removing or resetting these modifications to factory settings to diagnose the issue.

Electrical and Sensor Checks:

Inspect the motorcycle’s electrical connections, especially those related to the rear cylinder’s ignition and fuel injection systems. Corrosion or loose connections can lead to misfires and the P1356 code.

What Does The Community Say?

Many Harley riders who have encountered the P1356 code share their experiences and solutions in various online forums and communities. Some riders found that the issue was due to their power commanders, while others discovered that it was their fuel pump that was causing the problem.

One common solution suggested by the community is to check and replace the spark plugs and plug wires if necessary. Some riders have reported that simply reseating the spark plug wire solved the issue. Others have suggested checking the fuel pump and the in-tank fuel line for any issues.

Example #1

Example from Harley Davidson Forums: A rider, experiencing persistent P1356 codes, was advised to remove their Power Commander. This simple action resolved the issue, highlighting the potential impact of aftermarket modifications on the motorcycle’s electronic systems.

Example #2

HD Forums Experience: Another rider solved the elusive P1356 by discovering a pinhole in the in-tank fuel line. Despite replacing the fuel filter and pressure regulator, the issue persisted until the pinhole was found and the line replaced, immediately resolving the code.

Example #3

V-Twin Forum Insight: A user found that applying too much anti-seize on spark plug threads triggered the P1356 code. After cleaning the threads and applying anti-seize sparingly, the issue was resolved, underscoring the importance of careful maintenance practices.

Are Any Repairs Necessary To Fix The Code?

Depending on the cause of the P1356 code, some repairs might be necessary. If the issue is due to faulty spark plugs or plug wires, these components will need to be replaced. If the problem lies with the fuel pump, a more extensive repair might be necessary, which could include replacing the fuel flange or the in-tank fuel line.

How Can You Clear The Code?

Clearing the P1356 code involves addressing the underlying issue causing the error. Once the necessary repairs are made, you can clear the code using a diagnostic tool. However, it’s important to note that just clearing the code without fixing the underlying problem will likely result in the code reappearing.

The Harley trouble codes you should be familiar with:
> Most Common Harley Davidson Diagnostic Codes Get Explained
> Harley Code P0562 Gets Completely Explained
> Harley Code P1510 Gets Completely Explained
> Harley Code P1632 Gets Completely Explained
> The U0184 Harley Code Gets Completely Explained
> The P2300 Harley Code Gets Completely Explained
> Harley Code B2141 Gets Completely Explained
> The U0141H Harley Code Gets Completely Explained

How Common Is Code P1356?

While it’s hard to say exactly how common the P1356 code is among all Harley riders, it’s certainly not a rare occurrence. Many riders have reported encountering this code at some point, and it’s a well-known issue within the Harley community.

In conclusion, while the P1356 code might seem daunting at first, understanding what it means and how to handle it can help you address the issue effectively. Remember, when it comes to your bike’s health, it’s always better to be proactive rather than reactive. – and keep these technical resources handy for when you need them:

> Torque Specs for Harley Davidson: Ultimate Guide (PDF)
> Complete Harley Davidson Tire Size Chart (PDF)

Frequently Asked Questions