I want to replace the chrome rocker covers with black ones. I want to know what I can mess with if I have no experience working on bikes. I read somewhere I will have to change the gaskets and they recommended some type of better gaskets to buy, 40 bucks or something like that.

So anyone done it before and how easy was it?

2011 48

 

I did mine on my 2000 xl1200 and didn't take any time to do. make sure you have a manuel so you torque the bolts to the right lbs. It should be 3 pieces per head and you will need to remove the rockers. that might take you a little longer.

 

The best quality rocker gaskets are OEM (Harley).
The rocker covers on 2004 and later bikes are 2 piece.
You will need an INCH lbs torque wrench, and having a Motion Pro rocker box wrench (extender) makes life easier.
And yes, you should have the Service Manual.

 

I changed the rocker covers on my 2011 Forty eight about a month ago. It was pretty easy process since I did a wire tuck prior. The bolts are locktite from the factory so I undo them when the engine was hot. Took me 30 minutes top.

 

Make sure the cylinder is at TDC before you take the cover off, you'll want the extra clearance.

It's easier with the gas tank off.

 

Just my two cents on gaskets. After having to replace the originals and two additional sets of OEM, I went with Cometic gaskets on my 07 SportyC. I haven't had a problem since and that was over 20,000 miles ago. I now have 83,00 plus on the bike and no more leaks. I subsequently did the same repair on my buddy's 08 Sporty 1200c and here hasn't had a problem since.

 

Its easy but, take your time and be gentle with all the bolts. And try not to work on a hot bike.

 

I agree, I broke two bolts trying to install upper and lower rocker covers on my forty eight. Be very gentle, get some good quality torque wrenches. Get yourself some blue and red loctite, with some new gaskets and you'll be ok. Take pictures of everything as it comes out so you can put it back the same way.

 

Harley had done a recent update on the gaskets due to leakage from prior design and the updated gaskets are working good, no leaks