valve stem cap
Elite HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 4,933
Likes: 11
From: Kentucky
OK, seriously, here's a warning about something I just learned about HD valve caps.
I was trying to put air in my rear tire and nothing would go in or come out. People here suggested a bad valve, so I was going by the dealer anyhow to start a group ride and they put in a new one, no charge (not much, but nice since it's an old bike I bought elsewhere).
BUT, when we took it out a little O-ring fell out and it turns out the fancy HD valve stems have little O-rings that will fit right inside the valve stem and jam it up. Anyhow, I took the O-rings out of the other caps and they're fine. So if you get some of those $29.95 HD chrome valve stem caps (or $5 or whatever), you might want to stick a nail in and pull out the O-rings before you use them.
I was trying to put air in my rear tire and nothing would go in or come out. People here suggested a bad valve, so I was going by the dealer anyhow to start a group ride and they put in a new one, no charge (not much, but nice since it's an old bike I bought elsewhere).
BUT, when we took it out a little O-ring fell out and it turns out the fancy HD valve stems have little O-rings that will fit right inside the valve stem and jam it up. Anyhow, I took the O-rings out of the other caps and they're fine. So if you get some of those $29.95 HD chrome valve stem caps (or $5 or whatever), you might want to stick a nail in and pull out the O-rings before you use them.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 21,718
Likes: 17,555
From: Driftless Area
Let's see, should I multiply X12 if I only have a Lb. torque wrench?
This is really getting complicated.
12-15 Lbs torque if using air.
14-18 Lbs torque if using nitrogen.
I put Propane in my back tire, so I got mine torqued at 23-23 (Man....you should see it when I do a burnout).
And I put Helium in the front tire. Makes it easier to do a wheelie.
This is really getting complicated.
12-15 Lbs torque if using air.
14-18 Lbs torque if using nitrogen.
I put Propane in my back tire, so I got mine torqued at 23-23 (Man....you should see it when I do a burnout).
And I put Helium in the front tire. Makes it easier to do a wheelie.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 39,683
Likes: 2,118
From: Central, Ca.
Propane won't do it, I put Amsoil in mine and when it blew the valve cap off cause of improper torque it came out like black water, damndest thing I've ever seen, lost all viscosity, changing back to Dino air and going to red locktite.
Elite HDF Member
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 3,968
Likes: 34
From: Lockport Township, IL
I can't believe how many people took that question seriously! WTF. Anyway, do what I do. Put the cap on with some JB WELD, and you'll never need to worry about it again.
Regarding those little o-rings is some of the caps HD sells - toss 'em in the trash! the schrader valve should prevent leaks from the stem. The o-rings only cause problems. No need for them.
Regarding those little o-rings is some of the caps HD sells - toss 'em in the trash! the schrader valve should prevent leaks from the stem. The o-rings only cause problems. No need for them.
Road Master
Joined: May 2010
Posts: 932
Likes: 3
From: Tuscaloosa Alabama
just use common sense
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Tourer
Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 265
Likes: 0
From: Georgia
Now what kind of smart-aleck response is that? The poor guy asks a legitimate question about the precise torque values for his valve stem cap and you want him to use common sense? What the heck does common sense have to do with owning and maintaining a Harley?
