Replacing Timing cover, Inspection Cover, and Derby Cover. Do I have to drain the oil to change these or just lean the bike to the side when removing? Do I need to replace the gaskets? Any issues with leaking after changed? Seems pretty basic however my inspection cover was blowing a little oil vapor after the dealer changed out my inner primary. Twin Cam 88 with 5000 miles on it. I want to upgrade all three.

 

I just leaned my bike over when I changed the derby cover (actually had my neighbor lean it over while I changed it). Regarding the gasket, when I bought the cover the dealer told me...if the gasket comes of with the cover replace it, if it stays on the bike go ahead and put the new cover on. I bought a gasket just in case, but didn't need it. Can use it later down the road when the fluids are changed again.

 

I changed my derby cover on my 07 with it on the jiffy stand, the primary oil is below the lowest point on the opening. I don't have a inspection plate so I can't help you there. There is nothing behind the timing cover to worry about, its just for looks. I would say yes to changing gaskets. Its a simple job, go for it.

 

Also, if you do need to change out the 'ring gasket', Harley now makes a 'solid ring gasket' that makes installation much easier.

With the new solid gasket you no longer have to position the old style ring gasket in the groove and hope it stays in the correct position.

For example, here is the newer 'solid ring gasket' for the TC Softails..

 

Yeah not crazy about that new style gasket.....I had to usethe frisby when I changed to an after market derby cover.

 

The new "Frisbee" gasket seems to do the job though, I'vepulled the derby cover twice, changed the gasket both times,and no signs of leakage.

 

Ditto that. Looks like it does the job...covers everything.

 

I dont even change the frisbe gasket, I just reuse it and havent had a leak yet.

Chris

 

+1....I have had the derby cover off three or four times on my )3', and reused that gasket each time with no sign of oil at all. I do however change the inspection cover gasket each time....I have never had any luck with reusing those over the years.

 

As long as it don't leak works for me ...