Do you do your own servicing?
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Jul 2011
Posts: 27,096
Likes: 4,673
From: Frozelandia, Minnysota
New or used, the same tools work on both. I can only remember 10 new bikes over the years, most of mine have been used. The only time I ever took one in for a dealer service was a Suzuki that had shimmed valves; I didn't have the tool or the shim set to do that, hoped it would be a one time thing and risked a dealer. I probably invalidated the warranty on some of mine anyway with mods and engine tweaks, never worried about it.
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 2,858
Likes: 217
From: Puyallup Wa.
It was my understanding that they check a bunch of other things and re tighten down key bolts, replace o rings, etc etc. Everyone I've asked who works on their own bikes recommended going to the dealer for the first service (this is the most important) and then they service it themselves after that. Honestly it is expensive, but isn't it worth the extra money to protect your investment?
First service is still easy even if going by the book. It may well pay off for some to have it done not everyone is capable. But if your someone who works with your hands its really not that special.
Cruiser
Joined: Mar 2013
Posts: 228
Likes: 4
From: Cincinnati
I let the dealership do the first and I do the rest........although on the first the tightened my belt way to tight and I ended up having a squeaking noise two up until I figured it out and adjusted it properly.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 38,292
Likes: 6,322
From: Honah Lee
Unless you are very familiar with a Harley, get the 1000K since it more an inspection for Harley to cover their butt. It should have been free and most dealer throw it in free if you remembered to do it up front. If not, it's too late.
Then, if you like to do that type of thing and have a place, get the Harley service and diagnostic manuals. Also the aftermarket one since it has a lot of down to earth tips. Do the Youtube stuff and name brand tools. (especially the torx). Keep your receipts and document what you did just in case something does come up. PS..be sure you read what you are doing. Harleys are different and stuff is loctited, screws are tight and some plugs under the bike are not what you think! People on here screw up a lot of stuff.
I do all my maintenance and service. I was glad the warranty expired since I was never satisfied in what the dealer did under warranty. He either did not fix it or screwed up something else I had to mess with later.
Then, if you like to do that type of thing and have a place, get the Harley service and diagnostic manuals. Also the aftermarket one since it has a lot of down to earth tips. Do the Youtube stuff and name brand tools. (especially the torx). Keep your receipts and document what you did just in case something does come up. PS..be sure you read what you are doing. Harleys are different and stuff is loctited, screws are tight and some plugs under the bike are not what you think! People on here screw up a lot of stuff.
I do all my maintenance and service. I was glad the warranty expired since I was never satisfied in what the dealer did under warranty. He either did not fix it or screwed up something else I had to mess with later.
Last edited by Jackie Paper; Sep 2, 2015 at 06:52 AM.
Stellar HDF Member
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 2,920
Likes: 232
From: Kentucky
I've always serviced my bikes. Use motorcycle specific lubricants and keep reciets and records. This is also a good thing to have if you do a private resale.
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Road Warrior
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 1,614
Likes: 27
From: Toms River, NJ
I do all my own services on the last 3 new Harley's I have owned. Really not a big deal if you take you time and ask questions here, YouTube and O'course have the HD Service and Parts manuals (a must). Don't cheap out on tools. I always keep a log and the receipts, funny when I had major problem the dealership didn't care.... they just checked I had the coverage and fixed the bike.... no questions asked. I have read stories that dealership ask about what type of oil, who did the service, are you pulling a trailer, what mods are on the bike ( I had a PC V ) but I had no questions at all. Guess I was lucky.....
Be Safe JIM
Be Safe JIM
Tourer
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 256
Likes: 7
From: Western NC
I do my own services, and I don't buy beaters and drive them into the ground!! If you want something done right, learn to do it yourself. You learn so much about your bike by doing your own wrenching on it. Of course I understand that there are some people without the ability and/or time. And there are also those that are afraid to get their hands dirty and mess up that manicure.