Yes, you are correct, the battery cover. OK, I just didn't remember that on my 2008 Sportster 883C.

 

Same thing was happening to me on my new '09 last week, went to the dealer was told I have the old clips, and they would order the new ones for me, they haven't come in yet, right now I have a zip tie as well.

 

Mine work fine,,I have ta take the seat off and hold the front clip from the back till I get a good latch,,,
Thats ok cause my battery tender plug just barely sticks out so
I dont hav ta remove the cover.
I shure would like to see a Picture of how you guys got em twist tied.
Redundancy keeps the Space Shuttle up,,prolly good for Us also,,,,

 

Its simple. Keep your old clip. Drill a hole through the front clip that lines up with the slot in the battery cover. Cut a zip tie to about 2 inches long, close the battery cover and then drop the zip tie straight through the hole in the clip and slot in the cover. Voila it wont every open again unless you pull the zip tie out. It also lets you do it without having to pull the seat.

You wont be able to do this with the new style clips. I tired and there just isn't room and I certainly don't trust the redesign at all.


MH

 

Stick a screw in that front clip and you won't have to remove the seat.

 

When I got my Sporty in 08, the cover came loose once. The stealer installed new clips, and I didnt give it much thought.
Last week I brought my bike to the stealer to have a diag done.
When I got it home, the cover was gone. The stealer said, "Oh well, they do fall off".
My covers are painted to match the tank & fender.
Those bastards want $110 bucks for a new black cover.
Now I find a zip tie would have saved this from happening.
I am pissed

 

Two tiny holes drilled about 3/16" apart, then cut the middle out to create a slot in the plastic clip.
Insert zip tie.

 

Don't lay down for their ineptness. Ya had no probs. with it before the service; they did not secure it properly, they are liable and responsible for the replacement. Go back, ask to see the gm, owner, whatever. Get them to take RESPONSIBILITY AND HOLD THEM ACCOUNTABLE!. My .02.