2018 Softail Gasoline Leaking Problem
Thread Starter
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Tourer
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 439
Likes: 5
From: Austin Texas
2018 Softail Gasoline Leaking Problem
2018 - 800 mile old Softail Deluxe started leaking gasoline from the the fuel vapor tube that is terminates over the rear drive belt.
The steady dripping occurs during idle or cruising with the filler cap on but does not leak with the tank filler cap removed.
There is only one gallon of fuel in the tank. It's my wifes Deluxe and I don't know how long it's been leaking this way.
I noticed this for the first time after I took the down off the lift after a handlebar swap during a test ride.
Since this is a warranty item, I'll be dropping the bike off at the dealer Monday. However, I don't know if I'd considerable the bike exactly safe to ride at this point.
At any rate I'd like too diagnose the cause of the leak myself and solve if it's a simple fix or accept any any tips.
The steady dripping occurs during idle or cruising with the filler cap on but does not leak with the tank filler cap removed.
There is only one gallon of fuel in the tank. It's my wifes Deluxe and I don't know how long it's been leaking this way.
I noticed this for the first time after I took the down off the lift after a handlebar swap during a test ride.
Since this is a warranty item, I'll be dropping the bike off at the dealer Monday. However, I don't know if I'd considerable the bike exactly safe to ride at this point.
At any rate I'd like too diagnose the cause of the leak myself and solve if it's a simple fix or accept any any tips.
Intermediate
Joined: Dec 2010
Posts: 38
Likes: 5
From: So. Austin
(2018 FLDE)
After 1000 miles, I started to smell unused gasoline. HD is replacing my fuel pump right now. I did not notice a puddle, but it just smelled rich. I wonder if my issue is related to yours.
After 1000 miles, I started to smell unused gasoline. HD is replacing my fuel pump right now. I did not notice a puddle, but it just smelled rich. I wonder if my issue is related to yours.
Thread Starter
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Tourer
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 439
Likes: 5
From: Austin Texas
HaHa, the service desk stated the fuel pump measured near 70 psi and is replacing like yours.
Unfortunately HD terminated the vapor tube over the the rear drive belt & unless I'm wrong above the swing arm bushing.
I'll see about lengthening the vapor tube as long as it doesn't interfere with anything.
Unfortunately HD terminated the vapor tube over the the rear drive belt & unless I'm wrong above the swing arm bushing.
I'll see about lengthening the vapor tube as long as it doesn't interfere with anything.
Advanced
Joined: Dec 2017
Posts: 96
Likes: 27
From: Brisbane, Australia
I found a rigid black plastic breather pipe virtually worn through from the top of the belt dive on my new 2017 Deluxe MY18. Over the phone the HD Tech advised it was the fuel tank breather. Very odd for it to terminate right between the belt drive, let alone free floating!
So I could ride it, I cut the damaged 2’’ off and fit an extension with some rubber fuel pipe which fitted tightly over the breather, then clamped the extension tautly with an insulated hose clamp at the rear of the sump. Local HD agent agreed to inspect it at my first service ... which they consequently confirmed my fix was good and have left it as is.
While in for the1st service I had a detailed look at another new 2018 Deluxe on the floor for comparison. Could not find any evidence of the fuel tank breather at the rear LHS of the battery near the drive belt, as per mine. HD must have rerouted the breather on later ones, so hopefully this is not an issue going forward.
So I could ride it, I cut the damaged 2’’ off and fit an extension with some rubber fuel pipe which fitted tightly over the breather, then clamped the extension tautly with an insulated hose clamp at the rear of the sump. Local HD agent agreed to inspect it at my first service ... which they consequently confirmed my fix was good and have left it as is.
While in for the1st service I had a detailed look at another new 2018 Deluxe on the floor for comparison. Could not find any evidence of the fuel tank breather at the rear LHS of the battery near the drive belt, as per mine. HD must have rerouted the breather on later ones, so hopefully this is not an issue going forward.
Road Warrior
Joined: Jul 2012
Posts: 1,307
Likes: 195
From: Ohio
HaHa, the service desk stated the fuel pump measured near 70 psi and is replacing like yours.
Unfortunately HD terminated the vapor tube over the the rear drive belt & unless I'm wrong above the swing arm bushing.
I'll see about lengthening the vapor tube as long as it doesn't interfere with anything.
Unfortunately HD terminated the vapor tube over the the rear drive belt & unless I'm wrong above the swing arm bushing.
I'll see about lengthening the vapor tube as long as it doesn't interfere with anything.
Last edited by P51Driver; Jul 7, 2018 at 11:40 PM.
Thread Starter
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Tourer
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 439
Likes: 5
From: Austin Texas
I ask them to over-night the FP for $20 but it took two days, they credited me the twenty back.
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Novice
Joined: Dec 2018
Posts: 19
Likes: 3
From: Alabama
Fuel leak from the vent tube...
My 2018 Sport Glide started leaking fuel at idle, through the vent tube which terminates pretty much under the left side passenger foot peg, it's just a matter of replacing the gas cap, I had dropped it during a pit stop. Was fine for months but looks like it's responsible for the leak. The tech is ninety percent sure that's the issue. Common issue with an easy fix. Posting to help any other noobs like myself, Happy Holidays y'all! New parts being installed, new pics soon!!!!
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Stellar HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 2,149
Likes: 404
From: Hurdle Mills NC
I have the 18 Deluxe .. so far I havent notice any leaks. I suppose it would be easy to spot on the garage floor. Still can one of you guys that do have the leak take a pic showing where you spotted the trouble. I will of course check when I get home. Knowledge is power !
Thanks !
Thanks !