What did you clean it with? Someone mentioned Harley issued a bulletin stating that the engine paint should only be cleaned with soap and water, and that discoloration isn't covered under the warranty. Clearly, I'm not the only one having problems, and it sounds to me like they're trying to dodge responsibility by issuing a bulletin after the damage has already been done.

 

Just wondering if the air cleaner coating is the same as the gray finish of the 883 engine cases. I recently got some tar on the engine case from our road. After trial and error, I used an old can of Prestone Bug&Tar on the spot and it came right off with no damage to the gray finish. I have since used it to clean off a couple spots of oil stains below the air cleaner with great results.

 

Im getting the same staining on my primary case, around where the heel of my boot rubs. I guarantee the reason we cant clean it is the texture and the type of crappy paint used. I could care less if the stealership would cover it cause frankly I dont like the grey anymore anyway. Ive decided to get it refinished in a satin black color.

 

Although another note, small stains from say road grime and water from rain riding. Ive found that if you soak the case with Simple Green then use a scotch brite pad to scrub it, it comes out pretty clean.

 

It's a greesy oily residue not alot but just enough to see the color change on the grey after you clean it. I was thinking of having mine shot black this winter.

 

The Service Bulletin:

TT348 – October 31, 2007 - XL1200N Nightster Engine Finish Discoloration

XL1200N Nightster Engine Finish Staining/Discoloration

Recently Harley-Davidson Tech Service has received several calls on "Staining"

of the Medium Grey painted surfaces on the 1200 Nightster. The staining is the

result of various conditions related to the improper use of S100 product.

Discoloration of engine covers related to improper use of cleaning products is not

a warrantable event. There is aerosol paint available, part number 98606CPM to

remedy this situation, which has been used with success by dealer technicians.

To help aid in proper use and to avoid staining to the surfaces, Please follow the

guidelines below or the directions on the product being used.

1) Insure bike is cool. Cool with water before applying S100.

2) Spray fine mist of S100 over cycle. Avoid areas which should not be cleaned

with water (electronics etc. see owners manuals)

3) Since S100 can dry quickly, begin rinsing right away. Rinse off S100 using

highest water pressure

sharpest jet. (More water pressure= better cleaning)

4) Rinse very thoroughly until no sudsing is noticeable. Check to see that

surfaces feel "squeaky" to the touch. If slippery, continue rinsing.

IMPORTANT DO'S AND DON'TS:

Don't

Spotting can occur. Cool first with water then wash

Do

which appears like water spots indicates incomplete rinsing. Re-clean area &

rinse longer

Don't

S100

Do

Don't

Please keep in mind, ambient temps can exceed 100 degrees in some parts of

the country and you should cool off the bike with water before using the cleaner.

Additionally, if a bike is parked on a black asphalt road or driveway the heat will

rise and warm the bike, please cool with water before cleaning

 

I think the MOCO's customer service is really starting to suffer. Common if they want to blame this Nighster problem on the folks that own them then they should have known about the potential for this problem prior to selling the model. And since they offer an aerosol paint to cover this they should at least be authorizing their dealers to fix this. Don't get me wrong I love Harley's, but I just feel like this is an example of the company losing touch with it's consumers.

 

Have you ever noticed an upside down Harley sticker on a toolbox, or on a bike? It's a protest, ie. "F" the Motor Company. Been going on for over 30 years. We love their bikes out of Nationalism and heritage but feel like they screw us at every turn. Meanwhile, the stockholders have gotten rich. Remember, they're in it for the $$$$$. It's a business, nothing more.
Shoulda bought that stock back in the 80's.
Not bashing Sleepman, just my $.02.

 

i didnt have any problems there with mine but i did have corrision problems on the engine case the alum was corroding just like it was in the bare spots like in between the jugs where the vin was stamped etc.

 

I just tossed out the can of S100 can't trust it. I am not going to take a chance on a product with so many reasons to fail. The asphalt is hot don't spray onto a cool bike give me a break. There is a bunch of friendly cleaners out there which will not harm your bike. Black Hills Total bike wash I buy at walmart will keep your bike looking showroom. Trust me. The bike below 25K and never been sprayed down with a hose.