I have a 2014 fxdb with 49mm fork tubes. I need to replace my factory fork oil and i am going with screamin eagle heavy oil. Iv heard a few different numbers as far has how much oil is supposed to go into each fork. I ask 5 different people and get 5 different answeres and none of them match what i see in the manual which is 28.6oz i believe. Also, whats the step by step process? Remove tubes, remove cap, washer, spacer, spring, fluid, then what? Pump the tube a few times? I also heard something about adding extra washers to preload the spring and take pit the clunk that has developed. So i need a few tips from someone who has done this. I wouldnt mind making taking pic when i do this to help others in the future.

Sorry if this is a common question but i couldnt find anything with the search. If there is a writeup somewhere here please link me. Thanks guys!

 

I wrote this up for cvaria, it might help you out a bit HERE

If you're going this far I'd change out the crappy HD springs and spacers for heavy Progressive springs and 15wt fork fluid. Cost right around $100 to do the job; pick up the springs on Amazon or eBay. I use the heavy Progressive 11-1546 springs and love them. I weigh 145 pounds, but the ride isn't at all harsh; it's firm and planted.

I've found leaving the fork tubes inverted overnight is the most effective way to remove all the old fluid. When you go to add new fluid add 10 ounces or so and slowly pump the tube in the slider to remove all the air. Your fluid amount is based on level, not ounces. If you're running the OEM springs and spacer follow the level specified in the SM, if you're using Progressive springs follow their level recommendation.

The fluid level is measured with the springs, washer, and spacer removed and the tube collapsed down in to the slider; for example, with my Wide Glide the SM calls for the fluid to be 95mm from the edge of the fork tube with the tube compressed in the slider. Progressive heavy's on my Wide Glide the fluid level is 150mm due to their much larger size.

My '13 service manual says the FXDB is also a 95mm fluid level. You'll need 2 liters of fork fluid to do the job...

This is how much added fluid will drain out if you leave the forks inverted overnight...

 

Replying so I can find this thread again easily when I upgrade my springs this winter. Thanks for the info.

 

Take longer to write a step by step than to actually do the work

Here the cliff notes:


Loosen the caps while forks still in the triples - BUT DO NOT REMOVE THE CAPS YET

Remove the forks - place a towel over the caps - then remove the caps - KEEPING YOUR FACE AWAY FROM OVER THE CAPS

Spend the money for the long allen and seal driver - then do a proper rebuild (adding new oil to old..., just contaminates the new)

Disassemble - drain.., clean..., rebuild (replacing the seals, bushings.., O rings)

After cleaning prelube the inner forks before attempting to install the bushings - This is important

Do not over tighten bolts going into the bottom of the sliders

Do not use washers for adjusting preload - get PVC and cut to length = you'll see why when trying to reassemble and screw on the caps

Youtube is your friend

Service manual is your better friend - use it..., follow it..., use the recommended oil amount


Ghost

 

You guys have already given me much more information than i was able to find on you tube or google. Thanks guys, yall rock.

 

This is assuming you have "dry" tubes. If you leave tgem on the bike and just drain via the 12mm bolts on the bottom. The amount needed may be less than on the chart.


Have fun. We are here to hurt help.

 

I just put a Progressive spring kit in my 01 FXD with 20W oil and although I have only had a short test ride, I am pleased with the results. The total cost for the kit and oil was just over $100.

I also rebuilt both fork tubes and sliders and the OEM kits were $52 for both.

 

Two different harley dealers told me only needed 12 oz per side. Got the bike tore apart and dont have nearly enough fluid. Exactly why my bike never sees the dealer.

Oh well, no big deal. I got one side done so ill swing by the dealer tomorrow on the way home from work.

 

not to pour salt but, it was said more than once here that you needed atleast 26 oz per tube. can't trust dealers... 12oz is for standard 39mm dyna/sportys

 

Yea i picked up the fluid before i made this post and forgot to go back for more afterwards lol. Not a big deal im just pissy cause i have to take the cage to work tomorrow lol.

And i like salt! Thanks again for the help. I think ill pick up a service manual this time too lol.