the air filter steel plate (where the cover bolts into) keeps cracking.

 

Show a picture, so we can see where it might be stressing.

Also, is it stock?

 

Do you have some large / ridiculous / heavy cover attached to it ?

 

se stage 1 intake

 

the cracks do not show up in photos but the form around the nuts that are welded on the filter center plate that the w cover bolts bolt into. The dealership techs say they have never seen it before yet it has happened to my last 3 filters.
1 se filter
1 stock
1 k&n

 

Is the SE rubber spacer installed between the filter and the ham can? If not they are available separately...

 

yes put it turns out the old bracket was left on

 

I have the same setup on my bike. It has been installed for 14,000 miles and has not cracked or broken.

What old bracket was left on?

Were these instructions not followed?

https://serviceinfo.harley-davidson....5?locale=en_US

The cover screws are literally finger tight. Have they been over-tightened? 30 to 60 in-lbs 5 ft-lbs max.

 

this bracket it was a parts manger that realized it due to not hearing or the cracking before and know the kit and installing them

 

I don't recognise that on that side of the bike.