Hey all , I would like to do some pretty basic things to my ride along with the maintenance upkeep without taking it to the dealer for simple things... What would you all suggests? Thanx

 

the shop manual from HD will pay for itself the first time you open it.

It'll keep you from dumping the tranny fluid, when you meant to drain the motor oil- which is a common first time error


if you have a concern, you can read through and assess whether you have the tools, time, ability or interest in taking it on.

dealer has it or check the forum classifieds or ebay...don';t buy a "knock-off" multi-model "almost as good"...the correct manual will have info specific to you bike, wiring diagrams etc.

owners manual is here:

http://www.harley-davidson.com/en_us...ng/file-8.comp

I think the part number for the shop manual is:

99483-11

list for $60, surdyke and others $48

sometimes if you google a part number you'll find additional info too



Mike

 

Like Mike said the Service Manual will pay for it's self. I also think the Electrical Diagnostic Manual and Parts Catalog are great additions to the tool box.
Boardtracker HD sells at a discount and ships free on orders over $100.
http://www.boardtrackerharleyonline....rchsmall_4920=

Good Luck

 

Thanx guys

 

maybe not for a novice.

Mike

 

I also think the Electrical Diagnostic Manual and Parts Catalog are great additions to the tool box.
I agree and disagree. The Electrical Diagnostic Manual may be a bit advanced, but the Parts Catalog is invaluable in conjunction with the Service Manual with its parts schematics. I always have both manuals out at the same time.

 

OP many of us use an online parts microfiche ( I shoulda linked to this earlier):

https://www.hdforums.com/forum/touri...as1-2-3-a.html


mike

 

Get the Harley manual. I got mine on ebay in new condition for cheaper than the dealer wanted. The clymer and other manuals are too vague.

 

Thanx

 

I should have given a few reasons why I think the Parts Catalog and Electrical Diagnostic Manual would be helpful along with the Service Manual.

The parts catalog gives "exploded views" of the bikes components. Sometimes seeing the part at a different angle than given in the service manual helps me realize how to remove the part or just how it is put together. An example would be looking at the fuel pump page of the parts catalog while following the steps in the service manual about changing the fuel filter or pump. The parts catalog also has the Hardware List that gives dimensions, threads per inch, grade, type for nuts, screws and washers. Other sections in the back of the parts manual are: New Parts List, Numerical Index and Component Types and Introduction Dates.

The Electrical Diagnostic Manual provides system descriptions and operation explanations that will help anyone who wants to be a key part in maintaining their bike. How many times have you read or posted instructions for someone to trouble shoot a dead or weak battery? From testing the Battery, Starting System, Charging System, Instruments, Accessories and EFI the manual, in my opinion does a good job of explaining the steps to trouble shoot problems. The manual also shows the location of components and connectors.

And Jim, welcome to the forum!