I bought an '06 Ultra last fall with 40k miles. I bought it at auction, so I don't know the maintenance history. All I know is it was a one owner bike and was impeccably maintained. There isn't a single scatch or blemish on it. When I changed the 3 oils, all were crystal clear. I cut open the oil filter and didn't find anything unusual.

If necessary, I want to replace the cam chain tensioners before the riding season starts. Is there any way to check the tensioners without removing the cam cover? Can I use an engine stethoscope? Is visual inspection my only option?

 

it is easy to visually check it. lots of you tube vids. you just need a new gasket and a very small inspection mirror for the rear tensioner. I don't know if you can see it without going inside.

 

Visual. Will take you about 1 hour.

 

No. Get a new gasket, a beer, a dental mirror, and find out for certain.

 

Call HD 1 800 258 2464 and give them the vin and find out what dealership sold the bike. They can even tell you if warranty work was done and where. Then you can call those dealers and see if they know the service history of the bike.
Good Luck

 

Thanks to all for the input.