How to Care for Harley Boots

Authentic Harley boots have a waterproofing shield and are made from genuine leather. Some Harley boots lace up, some have buckles and some have zippers. Choices of styles include the Faded Glory, Hustin and Dipstick. A well-fitting pair of boots is essential for maintaining proper motorcycle riding safety; after all, they are not just a fashion statement.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Black creme polish
• Water repellent
• Wax

1. • 1

     Polish your leather boots. Harley-Davidson.com not only has boots for sale, but cleaning accessories such as polish as well (see Resources). Use black creme polish for best results in maintaining the original color.

   • 2

     Shelter your boots from weather such as snow and rain when not out in the elements. Dry them up in natural outdoor air after they've gotten wet. Don't use too much heat, such as a dryer, as this is can dry out the leather. Make sure it's not going to rain if you put them outside.

   • 3

     Waterproof your boots with a mild detergent and let them stand dry. Once you remove the factory waterproofing, the new weatherproofing repellent will stick to your boots effectively. Use beeswax or lanolin to fill up the porous leather. This will prevent water from harming the integrity of the leather fiber. Reapply water repellent or wax weekly if you're using your boots consistently.

Tips & Warnings

• The "Faded Glory" version have a relatively large buckle and medallion. Use jewelry-cleaning liquid on the metal to maintain the shine.

Installation of a Harley Davidson Derby Cover

Replacing the round derby cover can lend a custom appearance to your motorcycle.

Harley-Davidson's motorcycles are an outlet for self-expression, allowing the machine's owner to personalize almost every facet and component to their taste. Even components as common as the clutch inspection cover, better known as the Derby cover, can be replaced with a custom piece to reflect the owner's personality. Installing a new Derby cover is a simple task that requires only a few tools. However, it is recommended that you use a stand to hold your motorcycle upright, in order to prevent fluid from leaking out of the primary while installing the new Derby cover.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Motorcycle stand or lift
• Torx drivers
• Derby cover
• Derby cover gasket
• Rags or towels

1. • 1

     Place the motorcycle into an upright position using a motorcycle stand or lift for support.

   • 2

     Use a Torx-27 driver to unscrew all five bolts that secure the original derby cover to the primary housing on the right side of the motor. Set the bolts aside. Pull the derby cover and its gasket off the primary housing.

   • 3

     Using a clean rag or towel, remove any oil from the derby cover gasket's mating surface on the primary housing.

   • 4

     Prepare the new derby cover and derby cover gasket. Flip the gasket so that the side with the words "Towards clutch" imprinted on it faces the primary housing. Align the triangular hole on the gasket with the top hole of the derby cover and place both pieces against the primary housing.

   • 5

     Insert a bolt and washer into the top hole on the derby cover to secure the cover against the primary housing, screwing it in slightly with a Torx-27 driver. Insert bolts and washers into the remaining holes on the derby cover.

   • 6

     Use a torque wrench to tighten the bolts to 84 to 108 inch-pounds, following a 5-pointed star pattern starting from the top center bolt, bottom left bolt, top right bolt, top left bolt, then the bottom right bolt.

   • 7

     Wipe away any spilled primary fluid or fingerprints from the primary housing and derby cover with a clean rag or towel. Lower the motorcycle from the stand or lift and place it onto its kickstand.

How do I Finance a Harley Davidson With No Credit?

You may be able to buy a Harley-Davidson even if you don't have an established credit history.

Financing a Harley-Davidson with no credit may be a lot easier than you think. Not having an established credit history means you don't have to worry about being rejected because of a history of late payments, charge-offs, collections and other credit blemishes. Sufficient income and stable employment could easily overcome your lack of a credit history. If that isn't enough find a co-signer with excellent credit, such as a parent.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

1. • 1

     Gather as much money as possible for a down payment. The larger the down payment, the less a credit risk you become to the bank or credit union. Without a credit history the bank will have a hard time predicting your likelihood of repaying the debt. Offering a down payment of 20 or 30 percent, for example, could improve your chances for approval.

   • 2

     Visit with a loan officer at your bank or credit union. Tell her about your plans to purchase a Harley-Davidson. Make the loan officer aware of your accounts at the bank, including any savings or retirement accounts. Describe your income and employment situation. Inquire whether the bank has any loan products to fit you.

   • 3

     Apply for financing at your bank, credit union or a Harley-Davidson dealership. Emphasize your large down payment as you apply at several banks or dealerships. The website Bankrate says the multiple inquiries on your credit report won't hurt your score as you shop around. Take the best deal and buy your new Harley-Davidson. Take some time to build your credit if you are turned down by everyone and can't find a co-signer. Establish a good credit history by applying for department store cards, gas cards and eventually full-featured MasterCard or Visa accounts. Use the cards for about a year and then reapply for a loan to buy your Harley-Davidson.

How to Look for an After-Market Motorcycle Seat for a Harley-Davidson

Buying the softest seats for your Harley isn't the answer, as eventually seats will flatten until you are sitting on metal, Just Motorcycle Seats notes.

Some Harley-Davidson owners may be happy with their stock seat, but many owners like to buy their own and customize its skin, style and -- especially -- comfort. There are several companies that offer a wide selection of after-market Harley-Davidson seats that allow you to choose the perfect seat for your ride. You just need to know what to look for.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. • 1

     Visit the websites of companies that specialize in Harley-Davidson seats, such as Le Pera, Tejas Thump Cycles, Harley Seats or Steel Thunder Custom Cycles.

   • 2

     Browse through several seats and examine the specifications for each one. Look for seats with high-density foam in the middle and bottom sections and a leaner layer of soft foam nearest your buttocks. That type of seat will provide cushioning and still spring back to its original form after you've sat on it, whereas the cheaper, seemingly softer seat will flatten under your weight over time, according to Just Motorcycle Seats.

   • 3

     Narrow it down to seats that are fairly wide and curved, and with the lowest section of the saddle as far back as possible. Pick seats that accommodate your posture; in other words, pick one with the seat well as close to the rise in the back if you tend to sit upright, and farther forward if you tend to slouch.

   • 4

     Choose a seat with a marine-grade vinyl, which has the look and breathability of leather but is cheaper and is not damaged by rain, advises Just Motorcycle Seats.

How to Install a Harley Solenoid Cover

Harley-Davidson uses the Nippon-Denso (ND) type starter units. ND combines the starter motor and solenoid to form a single unit. Starter/solenoid units usually come with the same black wrinkle paint as the engine and/or transmission cases. Purchase custom covers in chrome, frequently with embossing or engraving, through Harley-Davidson Motor Company or the aftermarket to dress up and customize the bike; install the covers with basic mechanic's tools to quickly boost the aesthetics or curb appeal of your bike.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Wrench

1. • 1

     Locate the starter unit behind the rear cylinder of the engine, on top of the transmission.

   • 2

     Remove the two acorn nuts from the end of the solenoid studs, using a wrench.

   • 3

     Slide the solenoid cover onto the solenoid studs. Use caution when handling the cover to avoid damaging the cover or contacting the electrical connections on the solenoid and starter.

   • 4

     Install the acorn nuts onto the solenoid studs. Tighten the nuts securely, using a wrench.

Tips & Warnings

• A thread-lock compound may be applied to the solenoid studs if the acorn nuts are found to be prone to loosening due to vibration.

How to Pick a Harley Exhaust

This motorcycle boasts an exhaust with a simple design that complements the clean lines of the bike.

There are numerous options for customizing a Harley-Davidson. One of the most common enhancements is changing the exhaust system. The reasons for changing the exhaust include performance, sound and appearance. New systems can cost up to $1,200 or more, but typically average around $500. There are many ways to choose an exhaust system for your Harley-Davidson, and for the price you'll pay, it's wise to do extensive research before purchasing your new system. There are several ways to learn about the different types of exhaust systems on the market.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Internet access
• Motorcycle magazines
• Motorcycle catalogs
• List of motorcycle events

1. Motorcycle Events

   • 1
     An event where motorcycles gather is a great place to start looking at exhaust system options.

     Check with local motorcycle shops, biker-friendly businesses, the local newspaper or the Internet for motorcycle events. Events to look for include charity runs, motorcycle swap meets and bike nights at bars, restaurants or coffeehouses.

   • 2

     Look at all the bikes, and if you see a system you like, ask the owner how he feels about the pipes -- the sound, performance, quality of the chrome or other finish. The owner might be able to offer other insights as well, including where to find the best price.

   • 3

     Write down the names of manufacturers and styles, and check with bike shops, online auction sites, online parts stores or manufacturer websites to find out costs of purchase and installation.

   Motorcycle Shops

   • 1
     A rear pipe that extends straigh back from the head is called a "shotgun" style exhaust.

     Utilize your local motorcycle shop to find more information on exhaust systems. In addition to learning more about the types and prices of systems available, both the parts and service departments can tell you about problems with exhaust systems that they've encountered.

   • 2

     Check with an independent motorcycle shop for a greater selection of systems. V-Twin Manufacturing is an aftermarket parts distributor that sends catalogs to their dealers to hand out to customers.

   • 3

     Buy motorcycle magazines at bike shops or newsstands.

   Internet Research

   • 1
     "2 into 1" exhaust systems are reported to increase performance.

     Ask questions in online forums to learn more about exhaust systems. Bike Talk, HD Forums and Harley Tech Talk are all good places to benefit from the experience of others.

   • 2

     Look at manufacturers such as Vance and Hines, Samson and SuperTrapp online. Some manufacturers have audio files that let you hear the sound of the exhaust. They'll also give you performance specifications.

   • 3

     Visit online parts stores such as J&P Cycles, Dennis Kirk and Cheap Cycle Parts for more ideas and more information about prices and installation.

Tips & Warnings

• Read the manufacturer's warranty before purchasing your exhaust system. Most don't warranty for bluing, so make sure your bike is tuned correctly before installing the pipes. Also, if your bike is fuel injected, you'll need to download a new map. Check with your bike shop for your options on purchasing a download or installing an aftermarket tuning system.

• Check your state and local government's regulations on motorcycle exhaust.

How to Remove Dust Covers From a Harley Fork

Harley-Davidson dust covers can be easily removed.

Harley-Davidson motorcycles come with dust covers on the fork of the front tire, which prevent dust and other unwanted materials from entering the fork. The stock dust cover is generally black rubber, but these are often replaced with fancier ones such as shiny aluminum. In order to replace the dust covers, or clean underneath them, the old ones need to be removed.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Screwdriver
• Tape
• Hammer

• 1

  Locate the small indent on the dust cover.

• 2

  Cover the indent with tape. This will help keep the dust cover from being scratched or dented.

• 3

  Insert the tip of a screwdriver into the indent and hold it in place.

• 4

  Hammer the end of the screwdriver gently. This will cause the dust cover to fall of

How to Install Harley Hard Saddlebags

Adding hard saddle bags to your Harley Davidson gives you storage space when traveling.

Harley Davidson is an American icon in motorcycles. Traveling on a motorcycle is a whole different world than in a car or vehicle where you have space to carry things, but saddlebags are the motorcycle's answer to that. Installing a set of Harley hard shelled saddle bags is not a difficult process. They are a common accessory and come in a variety of styles but have a standard installation that makes it a good do-it-yourself project for the motorcycle enthusiast.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Harley Davidson hard saddle bag set and hardware kit
• Ratchet set

1. • 1

     Unpack the saddle bag set and hardware kit and lay out the pieces. Make sure everything is there before beginning the job so you are not interrupted by missing hardware necessary to complete the installation. This is a good time to read through the instructions to familiarize yourself with any specific notes or areas of concern.

   • 2

     Check your motorcycle for clearance by holding up the saddle bag to the fender where it will be installed and making sure the exhaust or any other mechanical areas do not interfere with its location. If there is an obstruction, there are lift kits or spacers you can buy or install prior to putting the saddle bags on the bike to give adequate clearance.

   • 3

     Clean the fender bolt area to be sure all dirt and grime are removed. This will avoid scratching the paint and give you a good clean working area when installing the bags.

   • 4

     Mount the saddle bag holding bracket if one is in the hardware kit. This is a bracket designed to attach and remove saddle bags and assist with distributing the weight. Nearly all saddle bags or mounting brackets are attached at the pre-drilled factory bolt holes in the fender.

   • 5

     Place both bolts in place. Add any rubber bushings, washers or spacers required with the kit. Attach the saddle bag to the mounting bolts and align it so everything is seated correctly. Tighten the bolts. Check for good fit inside the saddle bag and out. Repeat this step for the other saddle bag.

   • 6

     Test drive the motorcycle with the new bags in place and check for any rubbing or areas that are not secured, then adjust as needed.

Harley Davidson Exhaust Pipe Removal

Use extra hands to safely remove a Harley-Davidson's large heavy exhaust pipes.

A Harley-Davidson's exhaust pipes are among of the most distinctive features on these big motorcycles. Whether your Harley-Davidson has a single or dual pipe, removing it involves a little planning and some muscle. The disassembled pipe can be heavy to move out of the machine once it's unfastened. When removing the exhaust pipes, take care not to let the pipes fall or ding against the motorcycle's frame or the ground. No need to damage that flawless chrome finish through an errant slip.

Engine Connection

• The first thing to do is disconnect the pipes from the engine manifold. This is important because you don't want the unsupported weight of the pipes pulling on the motor connection flange. Use a box end wrench to remove the hex head bolts attaching the pipe to engine. There is a flange used to secure the flared pipe end to the motor. Pull the flange away from the motor after the bolts are removed.

  While the flange is out of the way be sure to clean away any of the old gasket material used to make a tight seal. You may also want to cap or cover the engine inlet to prevent any contamination from entering.

Fasteners

• Remove the fasteners that secure the exhaust pipes to the frame from each end to the middle. Start at the rear and remove the bracket attachment then remove the fastener at the front of the pipes. Do this back and forth until only the center bracket is secure. This procedure will prevent the pipes from tilting forward or backward and possibly colliding with the frame.

  What you may wish to do at this point is wrap the pipes with a cloth shop rag at every location where the pipes can contact the frame. This will prevent any damage to the chrome finish or frame paint.

Removing the exhaust pipes

It would be best to get a friend to help with this step. With someone at each end of the pipes, lift and careful maneuver the forward pipe bends around the frame and away from the motorcycle. Once removed, place the pipes horizontally on a surface away from any foot traffic or children. No need to come this far and have the pipes scuffed or dented by an shoe or a poorly thrown baseball! Also, keep the pipe horizontal. This will prevent the weight of the pipes bending or crimping both the flared flanged end and the thin metal exhaust port at the back

How to Look Up Old Harley Muffler Parts Numbers

Find a muffler for your old Harley motorcycle.

According to the Hot Bike Baggers online motorcycle review, the top five antique Harley Davidson motorcycles are the Panheads (1948-1965), the Flatheads (1929-1974), the Knuckleheads (1936-1947), the Shovelheads (1966-1970) and the K models (1952-1956). For antique Harley Davidson enthusiasts, restoring such models is a favorite pastime and requires some knowledge of where to find and purchase compatible parts.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

1. • 1

     Go to the Dennis Corso website. View the available mufflers that fit various antique Harley motorcycles. The part numbers appear in the description.

   • 2

     Go to the Retrocycle homepage. Type "Harley muffler" in the search box. Press "Search." The results display old Harley mufflers along with the part numbers.

   • 3

     Launch the 45 Restoration website. Click "Exhaust, Mufflers and Clamps" from the "Frame Group" category. Search the results for your muffler and associated part numbers.

   • 4

     Order a Harley product catalog from the Harley Davidson website. Catalogs for new and old Harley motorcycles are available for purchase.

How to Rent a Harley in Mobile

Numerous Americans have had to rent a vehicle at one time or another, whether it's for vacation driving, because your car is in the shop, or simply to rent a fun car, like a Corvette or a BMW convertible, for a few days. For those who want something a little more fun to rent, Harley-Davidson motorcycles are available for rent in the Mobile, Alabama, area. You can rent a Harley provided your driver's license states you are licensed to drive a motorcycle.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. • 1

     Contact Mobile Bay Harley-Davidson, which is the only Harley-Davidson rental dealer in Mobile, Alabama.

   • 2

     Speak with a representative about renting a motorcycle. Provide the representative with your rental dates, pickup and drop-off times, and your personal information. He will inform you if any bikes are available on your requested dates.

   • 3

     Give your credit card and personal information to the representative at Mobile Bay Harley. This is used to hold your reservation. You'll want to make note of your reservation confirmation number to take with you when you pick up your rental.

   • 4

     Pick up your rental. To do this you'll need to provide your driver's license, which must state that you are licensed to operate a motorcycle. You need to accept or decline the insurance options provided by Harley and sign the paperwork. Rates vary based on the type of Harley and the length of your rental.

How to Check Harley VIN Numbers

Check a Harley VIN by looking it up in a database.

Every Harley-Davidson motorcycle carries a unique vehicle identification number (VIN), which insurance companies and the Department of Motor Vehicles use to keep track of the motorcycles. A VIN is also used to track maintenance schedules, warranty claims, recalls and theft. For motorcycles built between the 1930s and 1969, the engine number serves as the VIN. For motorcycles built between 1970 and 1980, the numbers are located on the frame and the engine. Only the number on the frame is considered the legal VIN after 1969; there might be a different VIN on the engine if the engine was replaced. A VIN on a Harley made until 1980 can be of varying length. From 1981 onward, Harleys have 17-digit VIN numbers.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

• 1

  Locate the VIN on the Harley and write it down on a piece of paper.

• 2

  Go to the Motoverse: Harley-Davidson VIN Decoder website (see Resources) if your Harley was built in 1981 or later. Type the 17-digit Harley VIN in the "Enter your Harley VIN number" box.

• 3

  Click on "Go." The Motoverse VIN decoding service will generate a report that describes information carried by the motorcycle VIN, including model, engine type and the year it was manufactured.

• 4

  Go to the Harley-Davidson Service Checkup website (see Resources). Type in your Harley's 17-digit VIN and its approximate mileage, and then click on "Get Checkup" to see maintenance plans for your motorcycle.

• 5

  Call Harley Davidson at 414-343-4056 if your motorcycle was built before 1981. Provide your VIN to the customer service representative so he can look up information about your motorcycle

How to Change the Oil in a 2004 Harley Road King

Proper maintenance is the key to keeping a Harley-Davidson motorcycle roadworthy at all times. As part of your regular maintenance routine, changing the lubricating fluids and oil in the motorcycle's engine, transmission and primary drive can prevent premature wear and heat buildup. Although the thought of undertaking this task may seem difficult for the less-than-mechanically-skilled Road King owner, the process is straightforward and can be done fairly quickly after the first or second attempt.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Motorcycle stand or lift
• Oil pan
• Allen wrenches
• Drain plug O-rings
• Shop towels or rags
• Strap or cap-type oil filter wrench
• Oil filter
• Engine oil, 3 quarts
• Primary fluid, 1 quart
• Transmission fluid, 1 quart

Suggest Edits

1. • 1

     Place your Road King on a stand or lift. In order for the fluids to drain properly, the motorcycle must be upright during the process. If you do not have a motorcycle stand, click on the "DIY Motorcycle Lift" link in the Resource section to learn about how to make one using easily obtainable items.

   • 2

     Place an oil pan beneath the engine oil drain plug. The plug is under the motor and just in front of the oil sump. Remove the plug, using a socket wrench, and allow the oil to drain. Remove the drain plug's O-ring and replace it with a fresh O-ring. Wipe the tip of the drain plug clean with a shop towel and reinstall it into the motor once the oil has drained completely.

   • 3

     Move your oil pan beneath the oil filter. Using a strap- or cap-style filter wrench, unscrew the oil filter from the motor and allow any remaining oil to drain into the oil pan. Fill a new oil filter with oil, and spread a coating of oil around its mating surface. Screw the new oil filter onto the motor by hand until it is seated against the motor. Tighten the filter an additional half to two-thirds of a turn, by hand, to secure it.

   • 4

     Add up to 3 quarts of fresh engine oil into the oil tank. Use a funnel to prevent the oil from spilling. Once the oil tank is filled, remove the funnel and wipe it clean with a shop towel. Replace the oil tank's filler cap.

   • 5

     Move the oil pan beneath the transmission and remove the transmission drain plug with a socket wrench. Allow the transmission fluid to drain completely. Remove the drain plug's O-ring and replace it with a new O-ring. Wipe the drain plug with a shop towel to remove any debris before reinstalling it onto the transmission.

   • 6

     Add up to 1 quart of fresh transmission fluid into the transmission. Use a funnel to prevent the fluid from spilling. Once the transmission fluid is filled, remove the funnel and wipe it clean with a shop towel. Replace the transmission's filler cap.

   • 7

     Remove the round derby cover from the outer primary cover using an Allen wrench. Set the derby cover and its gasket aside. Place your oil pan directly beneath the derby cover. The primary drain plug is located below the derby cover; remove it with an Allen wrench and allow the fluid to drain completely. Replace the drain plug's O-ring and wipe the plug clean with a shop towel before reinstalling it onto the primary.

   • 8

     Pour up to 1 quart of fresh primary fluid into the primary through the derby cover's port. Once filled, the primary fluid's level should be at the base of the clutch assembly. Reattach the derby cover and its gasket, tightening the bolts with a socket wrench.

Tips & Warnings

• Warm the motorcycle's fluids by letting the motor run for 5 minutes. Warm oil will flow smoother and will allow the fluids to drain more completely.

• Remove the filler caps from the oil tank and transmission before draining the fluids. This will vent both systems and help the fluids drain easier.

• Wipe away any oil or fluid spills with a shop towel before starting the motorcycle again to prevent smoking and oil "burn-in."

How to Kickstart a Panhead Harley

A Pan Head Harley is a classic motorcycle revered by many as the original and best of the Harley Davidson line. No matter what your view on that subject is, there is one way to kick start the Pan Head. It's the classic way to get your bike running.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Boots
• Pan head

1. • 1

     Make sure you are wearing high quality leather boots with good stiff soles, to start your Pan Head.

   • 2

     Turn the ignition key to on.

   • 3

     Open the fuel lever or petcock valve (if your bike uses one).

   • 4

     Set the bike into neutral by pressing the gear shift lever down several times until it stops, then lifting it up once until you feel the bike go out of gear. Roll the bike back softly to make sure it really is out of gear. Neutral on a motorcycle is between first and second gears.

   • 5

     Raise the kick starter to the start position, which is cocked up at nearly a 90 degree angle from the ground.

   • 6

     Grasp the throttle handle (on the right).

   • 7

     Place your foot on the kick start lever, and thrust it down in a counterclockwise arc. The lever kicks down and away from the front of the bike.

   • 8

     Adjust the Pan Head carburetor lever as needed, and repeat until the bike starts.

Tips & Warnings

• Roll the throttle only slightly to start a pan head. Older models are not fuel injected and you will flood the carburetor.

How to Change the Fork Oil in a Harley When changing the fork oil in a Harley-Davidson, it is advisable to use Harley-Davidson oil or an equivalent.

How to Change the Fork Oil in a Harley

When changing the fork oil in a Harley-Davidson, it is advisable to use Harley-Davidson oil or an equivalent. This procedure works on all but '02 through '06 models with a cartridge on the left side. These were only found on the Hogs. Replacing the oil by drawing it into the drain hole on the bottom of the fork eliminates the necessity of removing all the fairings or anything covering the upper fork nut.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Motorcycle lift
• Set of wrenches
• Vacuum source (hand-operated or electric)
• Harley drain plug adapter with which to connect a drain hose.
• Harley fork oil
• Drain hose
• Drain pan
• Schraeder valve removal tool

1. • 1

     Raise the cycle so that the front forks are fully extended. Remove the upper Schraeder valve stem on top of the fork using the Schraeder valve removal tool.

   • 2

     Take the drain plug out located on the lower end of the fork tube using a wrench. Allow all the oil to drain from the tube. Insert the adapter plug into the drain hole and attach the hose.

   • 3

     Connect the vacuum source to the Schraeder valve on top of the fork tube. Insert the hose that is attached to the drain plug in the bottle of oil. Apply the vacuum to draw the oil into the tube. Continue to apply a vacuum to keep the oil from draining out of the drain plug adapter.

   • 4

     Remove the adapter plug and install the original drain plug. Remove the vacuum source from the top Schraeder and install the Schraeder valve core.

Tips & Warnings

• On the '02 through '06 models, the cartridge must be changed.

1993 Harley Davidson Motorcycle Specs

1. • By 1993, Harley engines were in their fifth generation.

     Harley Davidsons, legendary in the motorcycling world, have an iconic look and a rumbling sound that is often heard before the bike's seen. Since the company's humble beginnings in 1903, Harleys have been ridden by die-hard bikers and sought after by avid collectors as well. By 1993, Harley engines were in their fifth generation, all of which were named after their engine's appearance: Flathead, Knucklehead, Panhead, Shovelhead and Blockhead. The Blockhead engine is also called Evolution -- or Evo, for short.

   The Harley Engine

   • All 1993 Harleys had four-stroke, air-cooled, V-twin engines. Four-stroke describes how the gasoline is converted into motion within the cylinders by the pistons, crankshaft and spark plugs. V-twin means that the two cylinders form the shape of a V, and in the case of Harley engines, they lie at 45 degrees from one another. Most V-twins are found in cruiser bikes, but Harley uses them on their Sportsters as well. V-Twin engines are light, fairly simple to work on and have high torque throughout the RPM range, meaning good access to the power. On the downside, they have less horsepower than bikes with more cylinders and they vibrate more, especially when arranged at 45 degrees, which gives Harleys their characteristic rumbling sound. Harley only used four different engines in all its 1993 bikes; an 883cc, a 1200cc and two 1340ccs.

   883 Engine

   • The 883cc was only used in three bikes: the XL 883 Sportster, XL 883 Sportster Deluxe and the XL 883 Sportster Hugger. It had 42 horsepower at 5,600 RPM and 43 pounds-feet of torque at 4,400 RPM. The cylinders had a 76.2 mm bore and a 98.82 stroke, with a 9:1 engine compression ratio. All three weighed about 470 lbs., had a power to weight ratio of .17 horsepower per kilogram and could do 0 to 60 in about eight seconds. All had single, front and rear disc brakes, twin shocks, swing arm suspension, a five-speed transmission, belt drive and an electric starter.

   1200 Engine

   • The 1200 cc engine was only used on two bikes; the XL Sportster 1200 and the XL Sportster 1200 Anniversary edition. The engine had 50 horsepower at 5,200 RPM and 55 pounds-feet of torque at 3,600 RPM. The cylinders had a bore of 88 mm and a stroke of 96 mm. They weighed about 475 pounds, had a high power to weight ratio of .21 horsepower per kilogram and could do 0 to 60 in about six seconds. They were chain-driven and had front and rear, single, disc brakes, a five-speed transmission and twin shock, swing arm suspension.

   F-Series 1340cc Engine

   • All Harley models begin with one or two letters, which describes the type of engine. F and FL were used in 1993 for 1340cc engines. These engines were used in more 1993 Harleys than either of the other two. All Dyna-series and most Softails had F-series engines. These engines had 48 horsepower at 4,900 RPM and 63 pounds-feet of torque at 2,400 RPM. The cylinders had a bore of 88.8 mm and a stroke of 108 mm, with an 8.5:1 engine compression ratio. Most weighed between 600 and 650 lbs, with a power to weight ratio of about .15 horsepower per kilogram and could do 0 to 60 in about 9 seconds. All models had a five-speed transmission and twin shock, swing arm suspension, a belt drive with single rear disc brakes and single or dual front discs.

   FL-Series 1340cc Engine

   • The second type of 1340cc engine was the FL-series. This was used in all touring bikes such as Electra and Ultra Glides. These engines had 60 horsepower at 5,000 RPM and 69 pounds-feet of torque at 3,600 RPM. The cylinders had a bore of 88.8 mm and a stroke of 108 mm, with an 8.5:1 engine compression ratio. The bikes weighed between 700 and 775 pounds and had a power to weight ratio of about .14 to .18 horsepower per kilogram and a top speed of about 95 MPH. All were belt-driven, with a five-speed transmission, single shock, swing arm suspension, single front disc brakes and dual rear discs.

How to Change a Harley Softail Oil Filter

Harley-Davidson Softail motorcycles duplicate the classic lines of a rigid frame. In keeping with this popular and dated look, the oil system resembles that of the older model motorcycles. The oil reservoir, called the oil bag, is under the seat and is visible on the right side of the bike. The oil filter is in front of the engine, in an area that was originally used for the bike's generator/alternator. The oil filter and the old generators are similarly shaped, and positioned as it is, the filter mimics the look of the old generator.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Catch pan
• Filter wrench
• Clean shop rag
• New oil filter

1. • 1

     Place the catch pan under the oil filter under the front of the frame. Wipe any road grime from the old oil filter and filter base.

   • 2

     Grasp the filter firmly by hand and spin it off counterclockwise. Stubborn or stuck filters may need to be removed with a filter wrench or Buford pliers.

   • 3

     Wipe the filter base faceplate with a clean shop rag. Remove any old oil and debris from the faceplate and ensure that the old oil filter gasket is not stuck to it. Clean up any oil that may have dripped down from the filter base.

   • 4

     Lubricate the gasket on the new oil filter with fresh oil. Fill the filter about one-third full with fresh oil. Slide the filter onto its mount and quickly spin it on until it bottoms out on the filter base. Tighten the filter another half to three-quarters of a turn by hand. Do not overtighten the oil filter.

   • 5

     Clean up any remaining oil around the filter and test run the bike. Check for leaks around the oil filter.

Tips & Warnings

• Start the bike and warm it up to operating temperature before starting an oil change. The warm oil will drain more readily and any debris in the oil will be stirred up and carried off by the draining oil.

How to Change Brake Pads on a Harley Heritage Softail

The brake pads on your Harley Heritage Softail are what allow you to stop while you're riding. Harley Davidson manufactures a specific brake pad that you'll need to buy from your Harley dealer before you can perform this job. You need to change the brake pads on a regular schedule, depending on how many miles you ride your Softail. Changing the brake pads on your Heritage Softail is not difficult to complete and will keep you safe while you are riding.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Allen wrench
• Screwdriver
• New brake pads

1. • 1

     Remove the bolts from the calipers using the allen wrench. On a Heritage Softail with fixed calipers, rotate the caliper retaining pins until the ends of the retaining clips are exposed, and then remove the clips with pliers.

   • 2

     Pull the brake calipers off of the rotors and inspect the calipers for cracks or other damages. Remove the brake pad from the caliper and squeeze the brake handle or foot pedal to force the piston out of the caliper. Clean the caliper pistons to remove any debris. Use the screwdriver to push the caliper piston all the way back into the caliper.

   • 3

     Insert the new brake pads into the caliper. Replace the caliper to the rotor. Replace the bolts that secure the caliper to the rotor using the allen wrench.

Tips & Warnings

• Not replacing the brake pads correctly may cause your brakes to fail while you are riding on the road.

How to ReFelt or Recover Pool Table

Harley Davidson Pool table Felt

Recovering your Pool Table is not difficult but can be time consuming. It will take an expert 45 min to an 1 hr to recover a pool table. An Inexperienced person will take up to 3 hrs. Get some Buddies to help you out. You can find all the specialty items you need from xtremegameroom.com. They cary a large slection of Pool table felt like Harley Davidson, NFL, NBA, MLB, Budweiser, Military and much more..

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Billiard Table Felt
• 3M Spray Adhesive #77
• Razor Knife
• Philips Screwdriver
• Socket Wrench
• 2 2x4 6 Feet Long
• Staple Gun

1. • 1
     Remove Molding

     Remove the Molding around the side of the Billiard Table. Do this by removing the Philips screws on the molding.

   • 2
     Remove Rails

     Remove the Bolts holding the Rails on. Use your Socket Driver to remove the bolts on each of the 6 Rails.

   • 3
     Raise Slate

     Now you need to raise the Slate so you can remove and install the new Felt. To raise the slate you will need 2 people and the 2 2x4's. One person to install the 2x4 and the other to lift the slate. Have one person lift the slate, do this by holding the slat at one end placing each hand in the 2 corner pockets. While one poeson is holding the slate up slide the one of 2x4's under the slate about a 1/3 of the way in and place the 2x4 all the way across the table. Then do the other side. Now you can remove the old Billiard cloth.

   • 4
     Staple side

     In the steps bellow we are using a solid slate so we can only use glue to hold the felt. if your table is slate on top and wood on the bottom then use staples instead of glue to hold the felt.

   • 5
     Layout cloth

     Lay the new Cloth on the slate and center it. If you are using a logo Felt make sure the logo is facing the way you want it. You should have about 3" of cloth hanging over each edge. Sart in one corner and spray Glue on the under side of the slate you dont need much glue and you only need to cover about 1" of the slate on the under side. Then spray the edge of the under side of the felt cover about 2.5 in from the edge. Let the Glue set for 5 min. then fold the felt under the slate it should hold firm. Make sure not to try to do to much at one time. Take it slow and make sure your felt is Strait.

   • 6
     Corner Cuts

     As you come to your first Pocket you will have to cut slits in the felt so you can fold the felt under without Wrinkles. To do the corners you will have to use 3 cuts but the side pockets will need 4 or 5 cuts depending on how good you are. Make sure not to make your cuts to long otherwise the slate will show.

   • 7
     Fold Corners

     Once you have made your cuts spray clue on the under side of the slate and felt and let glue set up for 5 min. Then fold under.

   • 8
     USAF

     Once you have the slate done then you can lower the slate back into the table.

   • 9
     Staple Rail

     Now remove the old felt from the rails but keep one of the rails with the old felt still on it so you can use it as a reference when install the new felt. Look at the folds on the old rail to get an idea of how to install the new cloth.

   • 10
     Finished Table

     Once you have finished all the rails install them back on the pool table. Install each bolt by hand and leave each bolt lose until you get all the bolts installed then tighten each bolt with your socket wrench. Now install the molding back over the bolt holes and replace the screws.

   • 11

     Now that you are done make sure the table is level and have fun.

Tips & Warnings

• Have a Friend help

• Have all your tools ready

• Take your time

• Do not Drink and Recover it will come out Crooked

• Don't cut youself

How to Install a Harley Windshield on a Fatboy

Motorcycle windshields can help protect you from the elements.

The Harley-Davidson Fatboy motorcycle does not come standard with a windshield. Adding one can decrease wind fatigue, keep projectiles out of your face and offer some protection from the elements. Through a Harley-Davidson dealer, you can find a Harley brand windshield made specifically for your Fatboy model. Harley windshields are made of Lexan, a durable distortion-resistant material, and can be quickly installed with the kit provided.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Harley windshield installation kit
• Tape measure
• Rags
• Screwdriver set

1. Preparation

   • 1

     Purchase the Harley-Davidson windshield kit designed to fit your specific Fatboy model. The exact model number and dimensions required for a windshield are available in your motorcycle's manual. You can also use a tape measure to obtain the dimensions of your Fatboy's headlight frame and front panel.

   • 2

     Place clean soft rags on the chrome and painted areas on the front panel, front headlights and fuel tank. The screwdriver and windshield kit mountings are otherwise likely to make scratches.

   • 3

     Remove the protective covering from the new windshield. Heat up the windshield by placing it above a stove or near a heating unit. This will make the Lexan more flexible and easier to install.

   Installation

   • 1

     Take the bottom windshield assembly jaws and hook them onto the grooves of the rubber bushings. The rubber bushings should be placed on the Fatboy's lower spotlamp bracket.

   • 2

     Take the top windshield assembly jaws and hook them into the grooves of the top rubber bushings.

   • 3

     Move the windshield and its connected assembly pieces onto the rubber bushing until it is seated in place. Tighten any remaining screws until the windshield is securely fastened.

Tips & Warnings

• It is important to install your Harley windshield at the right height to permit an adequate amount of driver air circulation while preventing wind turbulence for passengers. To the achieve this, the top of the windshield should be installed at mustache level while the driver is seated normally.

• With extended exposure to sunlight, the windshield's reflective curvature can cause the motorcycle instruments to become dangerously hot to touch.

Harley-Davidson Windshield Removal

When it comes to removal, Harley-Davidson windshields fall into one of two categories: quick-release and permanent. While quick-release models allow riders to select the windshield best-suited for the particular demands of the day, their stylistic possibilities are somewhat limited. If using a permanent windshield, a rider should know the proper way to remove the screws and bolts from the permanent windshields without damaging the bike's paint job or stripping the nuts.

1. Quick-Release Windshields

   • Available for all families of Harley-Davidson motorcycles, quick-release windshields come in both sport and touring sizes. These windshields have two pairs of clamps, which attach to the fork tubes on either side of the headlight. If you're not sure whether your bike's windshield is quick-release or not, start by searching for these fork tube clamps.

     Once you've located the clamps, unlock all four before trying to remove the windshield. Each clamp is held in place by a curved lever that hugs the outside of the fork tube. Gently pull back on the tip of each lever to unlock its clamp.

     Set the windshield face-down on a large, clean cloth. While the windshield is made of durable Lexan plastic, the material is sensitive to extreme temperatures and certain cleaning solvents. Therefore, store the windshield at a temperature between 50 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit and avoid using benzine, paint thinner, gasoline, powdered abrasives or alkaline cleaners on it.

   Permanent Windshields

   • Most common in older bikes and the fairings of touring models, permanent windshields require a combination of preparation and manual finesse to remove properly. The crucial part of the process is the initial loosening of the screws, nuts and bolts at the base of the windshield.

     While electric screwdrivers and pneumatic ratchets aren't absolutely required, they help prevent slippage that can twist and bend the hardware's edges. Permanent windshields in Softails, Dynas and Sportsters are attached to the bottom of the handlebars, not to the fork tubes. Here, you have two removal methods. The first method is to remove the flanged hex capped screws from the two collars that clamp around the base of the handlebar. This allows you to remove the windshield without touching the Lexan surface.

     The second method requires you to gently pull the cap from the surface of the windshield. Try using a rubber-tipped pair of pliers to help prevent scratches. Once the cap has been pulled off, use a flat-headed screwdriver to remove the 1-inch screw from the nut behind the windshield. Finally, gently pull the screw through the windshield to free the piece.

     For windshields installed in the fairings of touring motorcycles, the removal process is more straightforward. Use a Philips screwdriver to gently remove the screws along the bottom edge of the windshield. Once these are removed, the windshield easily slides up and out of the fairing.