My Heritage is one week old. I dropped a wrench on the tank and chipped the paint. Fortunately, I had the right color touch up paint but in the past the brush was too big and sloppy. I used a toothpick with just enough paint to fill the chip mark. I dabbed it on and it looks so good I'm thinking I don't need the clear coat. Now, to the fender ....

 

If it blends in and looks good, leave it. It wont hurt anything. You can always put a dab of clear on it later if you feel the need.

 

I'm sorry to Hijack this thread, but, where is a good source for touch up paint for the 96 softails?

 

Color rite might have something for you. Also, a ton of paints on ebay. Good luck, bro.

 

Another tip is to cover the exposed paint areas when wrenching on the bike.
I used to just use an old towel but got a tank and fender covers as a gift.
I general put them on if I'm going to do any wrenching.

Sure it takes some extra time but as the OP can confirm the time and effort to touch up a paint chip or perhaps a scratch is longer.

http://search.harley-davidson.com/?q=94640-08
http://search.harley-davidson.com/?q=94641-08

 

I NEVER use the "brush in the cap". From my other hobby-model making, I have a selection of very tiny artist brushes. I select the proper size and dip that brush in the touch-up bottle.

 

I usually do this but failed to do this time. Murphy's law.

 

I actually like the HD touch up paint. It's a bit thinner than the other touch up paint I've bought and doesn't glob like others. AND, go to Harbor Freight and buy2 or three of their quilted moving blankets to cover those tins when wrenching!!!!!!

 

Tiny artist brushes are a must for touchup.

 

I use to use paper matches ( tear end ) to touch up paint chips on appliances, works great.