Seems there is a real inconsistency. I called two Harley dealerships and asked to talk to service. One said they put 3 quarts in, the other said 3.5 quarts. So far, everyone I have talked to outside the dealerships says 2.5 to 2 3/4 quarts.

 

My 2003 FatBoy takes 3.5 quarts.....I do a bit less than that.

 

This is very educational because, like I said, most of my experience is with touring bikes. I've only done 2 oil changes on my Softail so far. I'm guessing it really isn't all that critical since the remote tank is not under pressure. Maybe someone else with more knowledge can weigh in on this. Seems to me as long as there's sufficient air space in the tank for recirculation and expansion it wouldn't really matter if it was above the full mark. The dip stick is mostly helpful in making sure you don't run it low on oil. Touring bike oil levels are more critical since the oil in the tank is under pressure. Too much oil in a touring bike will cause it to puke out through the breather.

 

A tech I talked to at one of the service departments told me that the tank was under pressure and it was not uncommon for an over-filled tank to blow the dipstick right off while going down the road. He also said that it would puke out the breather. Obviously with the contrasting advice the two Harley dealerships are giving means they cant both be right! It is like when I asked if I put an aftermarket Vance and Hines exhaust on, one dealership said the bike had to be re-tuned or it would cause problems. The other said with exhaust alone they would not recommend a tune.

 

That's good to know. Not that I plan to overfill mine on purpose but I didn't think there was that much pressure in that tank. Live an learn I guess.