Battery replace, disconnect main fuse is needed?

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Dec 23, 2021 | 05:46 PM

Ed Ford

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Joined: May 2019

Posts: 52

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From: panama

Battery replace, disconnect main fuse is needed?

Got a 19 fatbob.
Battery is dead and needs replacement.

i’m switching the OEM to lithium.

one question, do you need to disconnect the main fuse before replacing the battery??

thanks

Dec 23, 2021 | 05:54 PM

justcruising

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Joined: Dec 2017

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From: Brisbane, Australia

It is highly recommended. Avoids unnecessary voltage spikes to the electrical system and reduces the risk of short circuits. 👍🍻

Dec 23, 2021 | 05:57 PM

TriGeezer

Seasoned HDF Member

Joined: May 2012

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From: Carlsbad, CA

Yes. It’s an easy safety measure. And disconnect the ground wire first, and then connect the positive wire first.

Dec 24, 2021 | 05:36 PM

Las Vegas Jim

Road Captain

Joined: Nov 2018

Posts: 614

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From: Hendeson, NV

YES. But be ware of HD LiFe Battery.

I switched to a lithium battery two-years ago. BUT don't buy the HD LiFe battery; it is a piece or garbage with too low of amperage and doesn't even last two years. Read reviews on HD parts site. Any of the highly rated after-market lithium batteries are much higher performing lithium batteries. I went with the Amazon NOCO battery this time because of availability problems with other brands. My bike now cranks with much higher response, even when the ambient temp is around 40 degrees. I turn on the master switch for about 20 seconds to warm up the battery when it gets below 50 degrees, and no problem with cranking power.

Dec 25, 2021 | 07:47 AM

sandrooney

Road Master

Joined: Nov 2011

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From: Timnath, CO.

I get 5 to 6 years out of the OEM batteries, and they crank my bikes just fine. Just curious as to why you would switch to a lithium battery?
PS: I always use a tender.

Dec 25, 2021 | 12:52 PM

Tampa Fatboy

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Joined: Feb 2012

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From: Sunshine State

Batteries plus, forget the stealer/dealer. I always upgrade to one with more cranking amps, same size just more umph.
I've always gotten 4-5 years battery life on the replacements, only a couple years on that first stock battery.
Pulling the fuse is recommended especially where the battery location is with the newer M8's.

Dec 25, 2021 | 01:15 PM

smitty901

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Joined: Feb 2008

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Yes and you may want to do some more home work on those batteries also. The lithium ones have issues. Some dealers will not even sell them ,they have to many returns.
No reason to buy a battery from an HD dealer