By Mark DiPietro
Lowering Kit on the Rears Shocks
2004 Heritage Classic
Looking to install a lowering kit on the rears shocks and need your advice.
You will need access to a hydraulic press in order to disassemble shocks & install lowering kit. Or remove the shocks yourself & take to a local shop. They should not change you more than 1 hour labor.
Lubing Pivot Points
I would like to know what lube you used for pivot points that’s in the spray can and also what type of anti-seize for the spark plugs. Also, what to lubricate clutch cable with please and do I need to adjust clutch pack at every service? Thank you!
We use a quality penetrating Lube and Loctite anti-seize. No, it is not necessary to adjust the clutch pack at every service. Adjust at every major service, or whenever you change your primary fluid and are already in that area.
Mikuni Carb Issue
The carb on my ’93 Fatboy is leaking from overflow. What could be the cause? I have a Mikuni carb.
Either your needle valve is stuck in its seat, or the float height is not set correctly. Both the needle and seat can be replaced on your Mikuni.
New Battery, No Radio
I replaced the battery on my wife’s 2010 Street Glide. Now the radio won’t come on. Any suggestions would be appreciated.
If you have no power to your radio, check for a blown fuse first.
No Mileage Reading and Want to Sell Harley
I’ve got a 1997 Fat Boy. The LED failed on the odometer, and I can’t read the mileage on the bike. Is there anyone who can repair this unit or somehow certify the mileage? I’m getting ready to sell the bike and need to know the mileage. What is a good source to go to in order to find a fair market price for a 1997 Fat Boy? Thanks.
You are best off looking at Kelly Blue Book or NADA to determine the motorcycle’s current value. Unfortunately, if the odometer reading is no longer displayed, the speedometer is no longer good or repairable. You may be able to order one from Harley-Davidson with the last documentation of mileage. You might be able to use the mileage documented on a registration or service invoice.
No Voltage From Charging System
I’ve got a 1996 FLSTC that’s not charging.
New Stator
New Rotor
New Voltage Regulator
5-month-old AGM battery
No matter what, I don’t receive voltage from the charging system to the battery. Testing completed. Stator/rotor putting out 22-45 volts at the plug.
Voltage regulator not bleeding power. Produces 13-8 -14.5 volts with the bike running at the circuit breaker wire. Once I connect it to the circuit breaker, the battery doesn’t receive the charging voltage. I’ve cleaned all grounds and properly tightened them all. It’s hard to suspect the circuit breaker when everything else works as it should with the bike running. It’s just not charging at all.
Make sure that the regulator is grounded, and that the regulator wire is attached to the main breaker (30 amp). Make sure the main breaker is good. Replace it if it’s original. If still nothing, you can run a 16- or 18-gauge wire from the copper post of the main breaker and run it to the starter post (with the positive cable).
Darkened Exhaust Pipe – Why?
I have installed Cobra three-inch slip-ons, Vance & Hines VO2 naked air breather kit, and the FP3 from Vance & Hines as well. I did this to help enrich the fuel and cool down the engine a little as they are super lean stock. Before doing any of this, I noticed that the pipe from the front cylinder is a little darker than the rear cylinder and has soot in the end. Even with the upgrades, it is still the same. I am concerned that the rear cylinder has an intake leak or something causing the rear cylinder to be leaner than the front. The bike has 11,000 miles. I need this bike to last for many years and just want to make sure I don’t have a problem. I do not trust the dealership any longer, as I was told five different answers about where the cat converter is on this model. I don’t think they have a clue when it comes to newer engines.
There is nothing unusual with what you describe. It is what it is. If you are not experiencing any problems, why look for one? Don’t overthink it. It’s an air-cooled motor. The 2014 Softails are excellent, and the performance upgrades you added are great choices. Service that bike regularly and it will last you a good long time.
