Motorcycle Repair: timing and battery issue., harley service, bike check

Question
Mike, I have a 1989 883, and I started it the other day to get the fluids going.  I was getting an occasional backfire through the carbs and also through the exhaust.  Is that timing related, or just the cold?  It did not do it whan I put it away, and the plugs were flakey fouled.  I also think a wire may be loose somewhere, as there was a flickering of the lights, the bike went dead, and then I started it back up after putting the charger to the battery poles (without having the charger plugged in).  It ran OK after that and warmed up fine (with occasional pop described earlier)  Also, should the bike run once the battery is taken off.  I think so, but when I took it off to see if there was an alternater problem, the bike quit.  The battery stays charged, and I replaced the regulator earlier in the fall.  Any idea?  I can't find a Clymer anywhere, and obviously need one.  Thanks for all help.

Answer
You should still be able to get a Harley service manual for your bike. Check witha  dealer.
Your poping is probably just from being cold. If you keep fouling plugs do a OHMs test on the coil and plug wires. Once your timing is set it doenst change.
If the lights are flickering then you have a short and will have to trace it out with a test light and a volt meter.
If you take the battery off the bike will not run. Its not like a car that will stay running.
Good luck and happy riding
Mike