I want to change the air filter on my 2000 Sportster 883. I am having trouble removing the two large screws holding the air cleaner cover on. I tried using a #3 screwdriver normally, then I tried a impact driver using sharp raps with a small hammer. I don't want to damage anything. Does anybody have any suggestions or advice?

 

Mine is a 2009 1200L but uses a 3/16 allen wrench for the outer screws.

 

Heat gun

 

I've got the same year bike, it uses screws. I think it does have a tendency to seize up as I have taken mine off a few times this summer and I always have to give it a good twist.

 

If all else fails get a small chisel and a small hammer.Put the chisel on one edge of the points of the bolt in the direction you want to turn it.Smack it good with the hammer to break it loose.Take care in not hitting it too hard and not letting the chisel slip and hit the air box.If you do this you will prob need new bolts if it tears them up very bad.Watch using high heat there's gas and plastic inside the air box.Put a small amount of anti-seize on your new bolts before putting them back in.

 

My 02 has one of the standoffs loose and it spins with the bolt. Those can be a PITA. Keep working at it, you'll get it off.

 

If you work on your own, which it sounds like you do, a impact will become quite valuable over time.
Seems like I reach for mine all of the time working on my '02(rotors, pullys, them dang torque heads, etc.). Worth the money and I am willing to bet you will use it more than you think. If that is not a option for whatever reason......
Without putting an eyeball on mine, are these the longer ones that stand-off of the jugs? If so, should be able to drill off the head and use 2 nuts, locking them together and alight the flats of the nuts. Then use a breaker bar to get them free.
Best of luck!

 

I finally got it off and didn't damage anything. Thanks for the help and advice.

 

So how did u get it off.