2003 Fork Oil Change Blues

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Feb 14, 2008 | 08:29 PM

cocoaroadking

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2nd Gear

Joined: Feb 2008

Posts: 6

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2003 Fork Oil Change Blues

I recently drained the fork oil out of both shocks and refilled with harley brand type E fluid, the forks were removed during this procedure and filled them to within 4.21 inches from the top of the fork. I then very gently compressed the shocks about ten times each to get any air out. The forks were reinstalled on the bike and test road. The shocks feel like there is no shock at all, have i done something wrong, i read that there is a difference between regular shocks and ones with the cartidge inside. any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Feb 14, 2008 | 08:51 PM

HGM

Road Warrior

Joined: Apr 2007

Posts: 1,952

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From: Senoia, Ga., by way of Miami, Fl..

RE: 2003 Fork Oil Change Blues

Does your manual say to fill to a certain level?? Mine says to add 10.2oz if dry and 9.2oz wet. Period..

Feb 15, 2008 | 04:53 PM

cocoaroadking

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2nd Gear

Joined: Feb 2008

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RE: 2003 Fork Oil Change Blues

Yes, the manual says fill till 4.21 inches from top of fork.

Feb 15, 2008 | 06:07 PM

03dragonRK

Road Master

Joined: Nov 2007

Posts: 771

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From: St. Bonifacius, MN

RE: 2003 Fork Oil Change Blues

Frist - Road Kings did not come with the cartridge in the left leg so unless it was added you have the conventional type. I think you over filled your forks. The 03 service manual calls out pouring 11.1 ounces of type E and then adust to 5.24 inchs from the top of the fork tube "With The Fork Comprressed" If did not open theforks up, butadded the oil through the fork tube plugthe springs would keep the forks extended. I would drain the forks again and then add only 10 ounces to each side as one of my HD instructions states 10.9 ozs per side and you will still have some oil left in the forks.

Feb 15, 2008 | 07:23 PM

cocoaroadking

Thread Starter

2nd Gear

Joined: Feb 2008

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RE: 2003 Fork Oil Change Blues

I will try that,I tried the 4.21 inches from the top of the tube and ended using almost 24 oz.s of fluid to get up to 4.21 inches.

Feb 16, 2008 | 11:07 AM

lecomte38

Tourer

Joined: Nov 2007

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From:

RE: 2003 Fork Oil Change Blues

For the Road King - drain them on the bike thru the bottom drain screw in the forks. Add 11 ozs of screamin eagle fork oil thru the top caps. go riding and enjoy.