I have a 2012 softail deluxe with a bad voltage regulator. Harley says I need a part #74540-11. Other sources say the #74540-08 will fit and may even be an upgrade from the 74540-11 (which was recalled in 2012). The specs look the same, but the 74540-08 is a lot cheaper and appears to be much easier to find from multiple sources. Can anyone help me out? Thanks

 

The 74540-11 is the correct part for your bike. The 74540-08 is an earlier version. It probably was for an 08 or later model. The 08 may work, but it may not.

Drag Specialties makes an aftermarket item for your bike, but they look almost as expensive as the OEM, and who knows where or how well it is made. Ebay has some used ones on there for considerably less than new.

 

Those 'other sources' are not right! Personally I would buy the correct part. Have you confirmed it is actually defective? We have a couple of Stickies at the head of this section with instructions on how to trouble-shoot your charging system.

 

one important aspect to look at is the system capacity. you can not install say a 20 amp regulator on a 30 amp system, the reverse will not hurt. who says it has to be hd, two ac lines in and one dc out, even a B&S regulator could work.

 

2012's had a lot of bad voltage regulators from the factory.

 

www.cycleelectricinc.com

This is the company you need to be purchasing the VR from.