Sometimes even when I've done something before, I'll Google it to see what other people are doing; you can pick up some good tips. For instance, Google "harley softtail oil change", and you'll even get youtube videos showing how to do it. Sometimes this can be more help than the manual. Just use some common sense; I've seen some weird stuff you wouldn't want to do, too, like knocking the muffler baffles out with a big crowbar...
And that plug that was so tight to get out? It's common for plugs/bolts/screws to seize up, whether it's corrosion or temperature expansion, for example. If you put a torque wrench on that plug to see what it takes to get it out, and then put it back in with the same torque, you'll probably do some damage, especially if you put oil or grease on the plug threads before installing. You'd be lucky if all you did was strip the threads on the plug. Plugs are easy to replace, the case threads might be restorable with a helicoil, but a cracked case would be...expensive - and think of the labor to remove it.

 

Dickey... thanks for your post.. okay, I screwed up.. I admit it.. please don't bash a newbie...I'm trying my best to come up to speed on this bike..

I replaced the the plug with sealant and didn't over-tighten it. Took the bike out for a 20 mile ride and no leaks.

So in the future I'll just "Forget it even exists".... why I asked the question in the first place, was to get advice from tried and true Harley drivers...so I would care for my new Harley correctly based on your extensive experience.

Again, thanks for everyone's input.

 

I believe that when removed it lets out all of the Harley Mojo. Now you will need to buy at least 3 more Harley "T" Shirts to make up for this oversight on your part!

 

This is a site with exploded parts diagrams specific for your bike. Awesome.



http://partsfinder.onlinemicrofiche....m_oem/hdmc.asp

Grbrown posted that link in a reply today to my 9/29/11 post on how service manual needs parts diagrams.
https://www.hdforums.com/forum/general-topics-tech-tips/693484-why-doesn-t-service-manual-have-parts-diagrams.html

 

that fitting is in the manual it took me quite some time to find it,i think it was under crankcase section, oil fittings ,not really sure cant remember will check when i get home.as mentioned forget its even there,the torque specs are listed,i think it was 12in pds but dont hold me to it,will check for the section in the manual later today

 

Depending on how much wrenching you plan on doing to your bike, you may want to pick up a parts manual/catalogue. I bought one when I rebuilt my engine. The exploded drawings are very helpful and the part numbers are listed which makes online purchases a breeze.

 

agreed i just get fed up with the fact u need to buy 2 books! The service manual should have better diagrams, that is just the facts. It is very poorly done with regards to that.

The manual does help a lot but it ain't what its made out to be by other members on this site that swear by it.

 

Geeeeeeeeee, its there and with 40+ years of doing it usually 3 times to get it right I'm down to two now. HA

 

Congrats on getting a new bikes and definitely get a manual book. It helps out a lot when you needed.

 

I would disagree with you. I have made mistakes with the manual but after going back and looking carefully I would kick myself for not reading it right the first time. Operator error is usually the case.