Other than the usual hand tools, shop manual and a lift to save my back, are there any specific tools I should get to facilitate doing my own fluid changes on my 17 RK? I recall seeing something about a special tool to make filter changes less of a mess. Any help would be appreciated. My first HD and I figure it's easier to ask.

 

That's it, torque wrench, HD filter wrench, and a allen head socket set.

 

a must...http://www.harley-davidson.com/store...12-62700199--1
and ignore the only Review that is a 1 out of 5 Star from an idiot that says he spent 15 minutes of cursing trying to install it properly..some people shouldn't be allowed to handle anything sharper than a Twinkie..been using mine and it works great...and as mentioned above, the filter wrench with the cutaway...spin filter on until gasket contacts, then position the cutaway opening of the wrench on the filter at 9 oclock, turn to 3 maybe 4 o'clock is all you need..if you ever have trouble removing the filter use a 1/2" drive with 3/8 ths adapter and it'll spin right off

 

Sounds like you have it all worked out, besides the items listed by Afishinado above there is a drip tray that helps catch the oil when removing the filter. Here it is from HD but a similar one can be found from many online retailers

http://www.harley-davidson.com/store...ain-oil-funnel


You can also fabricate something similar out of a large softdrink bottle cut in half, tin foil or other items. Its purpose is just to keep the oil from leaking down on the bike when removing the old filter.

 

3/8 drive 5/8" and or 16mm Socket and ratchet 3 hole drain.. I use semi-deep sockets
T27 Torx for derby cover
3/8 Allen socket for Tans fill plug .. I use a 3" long allen w ratchet
Oil Filter cup/wrench 76x14 flute can get at auto parts store, new ones do not need notch out on cup. 8" 3/8" extension works best w ratchet.
There is Form-a-Funnel that can be used to direct the spillage from oil filter removal, and can be used as a funnel.. I use brake clean to clean up the aftermath.
I use an old 1 gallon jug (antifreeze/oil jug) and cut opening in side w cap on as my drain pan, thin pan and easy to inspect oil.


Bike will take just over 4 quarts in crank, 1 quart in trans, 1 quart in primary


You didn't ask but just for kicks haha I use HD Syn 3 in Engine, Syn 3 in primary, and Bel-ray in trans.

 

Exactly what He said!

 

Thanks guys.. Much appreciated !

 

Take a one liter pop bottle and cut about 1" off the bottom off of it. Then make a "scoop" out of about 1/3 of one side of it so it'll slide under the oil filter. It will allow the old oil to drain right into the catch pan without making a mess on the motor and primary.

 

Other's have it covered. I'd just like to reiterate a T27 for the derby cover screws. A T25 will appear to fit, but will strip the screw heads.