Ive been looking at and considering the chrome hardware for my engine area, more specifically the primary, transmission, Cam cover, and lifter tappet blcok, and when I feel up to removing the tank I want to do the rocker boxes also. I have considered both the chrome and stainless steel hardware. Have any of you done this and was it just too much chrome? I like the idea but am also worried it would just be too much chrome.

What are your thoughts on this?

The little covers that go over the bolt heads are not an option. I dont like the idea of putting covers over anything and if Im gonna do it I want to go the whole way.

Thanks for your opinions.

 

I changed out all of the bolts your speaking of to chrome, including all that I could get a socket into, transmission cover, bolts around oil filter, cylinder base, fender bolts, you would be hard pressed to find an original bolt anywhere on my Fatboy. I've had alot of people comment on the sparkle factor. IMHO, I think it looks great, making sure ALL the water is out of the bolt cavities when you wash or detail is a PIA, but worth the look to me. All of the odd bolts I removed, Ace Hardware had the chrome replacements.

 

Thanks, I was looking at getting them from J&P but didnt realize ACE sold chrome plated bolts. That is definately easier going that route.

If anyone else has ideas let me know.

 

Gardner-wescott also makes "kits" for the areas you want to change over...

http://www.gardner-westcott.com/


I also did as the above poster.....Replaced them little by little from the hardware store

 

when they did the Stage II Big Bore when I bought the bike, I paid extra to get chrome bolts to replace every aluminum one on the block, tranny, heads, primary cover, etc.

the bolts blend into the chrome covers and really give the motor a very seamless look.

 

I've used chrome bolts in the past... as soon as I put a tool on them, the chrome would crack or scratch and I'd get what looks like rust underneath. I now prefer polished stainless steel. Diamond Engineering has pre-assembled kits for Harleys. They're great to talk to and very patient. They'll sell you a complete set for every bolt on the bike (around $700), or one bolt at a time.

 

Glad you mentioned them, they are the ones who made the bolts I got for the front claiper when I chromed the front end. They make good stuff and I was really pleased with the quality. It was a little pricey but not as much as the HD stuff. Ill have to check and see how much a engine kit is.

I just checked and an OE kit for a 06 Softail is $156. A 12 pt kit for the same is $241. The OE Stuff is cheaper then the HD Stuff.