Lower fairing screws
Cruiser
Joined: Feb 2009
Posts: 189
Likes: 4
From: Kansas
I had the same problem. Tried lots of ideas with no success. I finally just drilled the brass side out. Just used a progressively larger bit until the flange was weakened enough to break off. Now the good part. HD does not sell the nut. Must buy the lower fairing part. Well BS to that. I will nut & bolt it in. Anyone know what those parts are actually called? Probably could get something similar at a good hardware store.
Stellar HDF Member
Joined: Feb 2010
Posts: 3,396
Likes: 266
From: Southern California
I've used RivNuts with excellent success in other applications.
I might even put a very (and I DO mean VERY) lite coating of epoxy on the outside of the RivNut before installing it . . . . just to add an extra level of security, if I ever have to take the screws out again.
Cruiser
Joined: Feb 2009
Posts: 189
Likes: 4
From: Kansas
Yep, that's it. That installation tool is nice, too. A little pricey to install one piece though. Surely I can find someone locally that has one. I can't believe the H-D shop wouldn't have one of those and do that repair. Less than a dime for the part and 5 minutes to install. Thanks for the info.
Tourer
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 439
Likes: 5
From: Austin Texas
I used rivet (nut) inserts extensively but I can't believe the ones I used would work as intended in plastic.
I do see the possibility of adapting (to create a female thread) anchoring with epoxy though.
I do see the possibility of adapting (to create a female thread) anchoring with epoxy though.
Cruiser
Joined: Feb 2009
Posts: 189
Likes: 4
From: Kansas
HD Forum Stories
The Best of Harley-Davidson for Lifelong Riders
7 Surprising Harley-Davidson Products that Are Not Motorcycles
Verdad Gallardo
8 Best Harley-Davidson Motorcycles Ever
Pouria Savadkouei
10 Worst Harley-Davidson Motorcycles Ever
Pouria Savadkouei
Killer Custom's Jail Break Is The Breakout That Refused to Blend In
Verdad Gallardo
Crazy Bunderbike Build Looks Amazing, But Is It Impossible to Ride?
Verdad Gallardo
Harley-Davidson Reveals Super Cool Cafe Racer Concept
Verdad Gallardo
Engraved Rebellion: Inside Bundnerbike's Glam Rock II
Verdad Gallardo
10 Motorcycles You Should Never Buy
Joe Kucinski
10 Things Harley-Davidson Needs to Fix in 2026
Verdad Gallardo
Road Warrior
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 1,403
Likes: 72
From: North Dakota
Just for future knowledge, the parts containing the captive brass inserts are known as "Duct, Radiator Right (or Left) and are under $15 each. If you must destroy them to get them out, it is not catastrophic cost wise but will just take extra time. I will be upgrading my coolant pump in the spring and will probably experience this also.