Does the fuel tank have to come completely off
to change plug wires ? I can't find it in the service
manual .

 

Yes. The stock ones have two push in zip ties that hold the front one to the frame, only way you are gonna get if off. You can get the new zip ties at the HD shop for next to nothing.

 

Yes, and I believe there is also one push in zip tie for the rear as well, but you can access that. They are .99 cents each. You can remove the two bolts on the front of tank, loosen the rear, and lift the tank enough to remove/replace. Use a towel underneath, rolled to brace it.

 

So I don't have to completely remove the tank .
I just have to take it completely loose & raise it .
I had it loose last night but was having trouble
getting my fat hand under the tank to feel just
exactly where the front wire ran . I'll look again .

 

08 and later tanks are simple to remove. The good thing about removing the tank is that it allows you to see/clean the filth under the fuel tank dash after removal. I'd just pull the tank and replace the wires. Easy-peasy.

 

I didn't have to remove mine, just in so the bolt and lift back of tank. Kind of sucks to do that and try to clip in wire at same time. But it can be done.

 

If you can't get your hand in there, then remove the tank. And like Dawg said, you can clean everything up while you have it off. My advice, have a sturdy table with a towel laid out to protect the paint, and you'll also need a rolled towel to place under left side so as to not crush the electrical wire coming from front left side of tank. Also the less fuel the better, means less weight, it will be heavy.

 

Harley part number 10177, cable strap, plug in. Good luck!!