I got the application guide from Loctite. There are a few things that they don't specify.

What should I use on the Base Nuts?

edit: 1983 Shovel-head

 

You can use a little blue Loctite, but don't use red. Personally I just use a little engine assembly lube so I can torque the base nuts to spec. Ditto with head bolts.

 

Where are you putting the loctite ? One experience I had was with the previous bike. Heading to Hot Springs, AR. Following a couple of guys in the twisties, went to downshift and got nothing.. looked down and the shift peg was gone ! Managed to pull over and get the lever in N. Walked back a block or two and the peg and bolt are sitting in the middle of the road ! Put loctite on and away we went. I never leave home without it.. And I put it (blue) on most all screws.

 

The Loctite guide specifies anti-seize for the head bolts.

I've heard, when in doubt, use blue. I was going to go that route on the base nuts if I didn't get a more experienced opinion.

Thanks for the input.

 

Woa!! Big difference between antisieze and any of the thread locking Locktites.

But, unless red or anti-seize is specified, I put blue on nearly everything.

 

A local mechanic told me that Loctite shouldn't be used on the base nuts because I'll need to re-torque them later.

 

Youtube on OEM Harley bolts and nuts