I have a 98 fxsts and I am having an issue with it not running right so I'm going to clean the petcock screen and change the fuel filter. I read on a thread that a carbed harley has the filter in the tank which I am assuming that means the filter on the petcock. Mine has a fuel filter also is this normal for a softail?

 

The fuel filter on a carb model is in the end of the petcock (up in the tank). It's usually a pretty good filter and if it does not look dirty....it's likely not your problem.

 

Cherokee....I was in a hurry and failed to answer all of your question. It is commonplace for people to install an in-line fuel filter between the petcock and the carb inlet. Nothing unusual about that at all, particularly on older bikes.