This is a boring question, and I've researched the forum and can't find an answer for a 2012.

So the dealer recommended a new fuel filter at 25K, but the Service Manual says to change the fuel cartridge at 100K and doesn't refer to the filter. Do other year's manuals recommend filter over cartridge? And do I go ahead and change the filter now? Thanks for the help.

 

Change the filter now and often with the damn ethanol

 

I changed mine at 30. Do it yourself, its easy. If a dumbass like me can do it, so can you.

You'll need to remove the cam ring to get the pump module out. I suggest you buy this tool, vs other solutions that people recommend, pvc pipe, banging with a hammer and screwdriver, etc.




Here's a video that shows you how. Although you do not need to remove the 2 fuel lines from the pump module.

 

Your bike has a filter, not a cartridge! Take a look at an on-line parts website. Is your service manual an H-D one or aftermarket? I have a 6 gallon tank on my carb bike and found a car shock spring adjuster to do the same job that Keith's tool does.

 

Keith's post is right on the money.

The Lang tool makes things easy.

The guy in the video went way overboard.

Pull the fuel pump fuse under left side cover
Start bike and let it stall from lack of fuel a couple times
Take off tank trim to expose fuel pump/retaining ring
Use Lang tool to take off ring
Remove fuel pump gently without taking off the fuel lines
Pull wire clip to access fuel filter and O ring
Replace w new fuel filter and O ring
Replace clip
Wiggle fuel pump back into tank
Replace fuel pump retaining ring with Lang tool
Install tank trim
Replace fuel pump fuse
Cycle ignition on let fuel pump prime
Start motorcycle
Ride motorcycle

15 minutes tops and that's if you take time to put a towel over the tank. All that said, the filter will give signs of clogging at WOT before failing to the point that the bike won't start and run.

 

The above info is spot on.
Here is a pic, just before installing the new filter. It is a little cramped in there, take your time , a wiggle here , and a wiggle there , and all will be good. The retaining clip , ( that holds the filter shell together), may be difficult to push through . Just squeeze components together, and it will eventually push through ..

 

A couple points - do this with 1/4 tank of gas or less.

Also, I think the hardest part of this was getting the U-clip back in, you really have to squeeze the module and the canister that holds the filter so that you have clearance for the U-clip. Took me a few minutes to wrestle that puppy in.

 

Excellent! Thanks for the feedback and links. My manual is HD for 2012 Touring Models. I wonder why it doesn't recommend the filter replacement. Those U-clips can be a booger.