You had the awareness to notice something was wrong and ask. That's what makes a good mechanic. Nice work and good use of the forum. Glad it all worked out.

 

Davisrf, glad you got the help you needed. The only time I've seen dealers give out that flat gasket is when someone buys one of HDs add on derby covers with the logos. I've always gotten the orange rubber one for my stock derby.

If I understand you correctly that screw you removed is what I called a casting nut and its never to be taken out. From what I've read the danger is that when it's reinstalled the casing could be cracked or threads stripped. But there are no warnings or other info in the manual about it. Whatever the case is, I've never removed mine.

 

I think the gasket spin is compatibility. Even my 04 came with an red o-ring type of gasket. However is does not fit with the many different covers Harley sells. So to make them all work interchangeable throughout all the different motors thay make the flat gasket with this side out stamped on it. Unlike the o-ring style it rarely seals more then once. My dealer only stocks the flat one. Guess you can order the ring.

 

The 'new' gasket was already on my '02 when I bought it last year. I've had it off twice and it's sealed back up fine. I just make sure I wipe it and both surfaces it'll be touching down good first.