Question for those running a vented dipstick or have considered one. For background, I have read several threads here and elsewhere, along with watching a slew of Youtube videos on the topic. I also don't believe I have a current issue but I am considering this as a preventive measure and to avoid potential carbon buildup on the pistons as a result of blowback.

The ride, 2018 Road King with a Stage 1. I bought this bike used with 175 miles on the clock from the dealer who installed the stage 1 with SE Heavy Breather for the previous "owner". Currently has 19k miles.

I have seen the DIY versions posted here, as well as two 3rd party providers in A1Cycles and Fueling but my general question is the location of the filter at the end. A1 runs it up over the rear cylinder and it rests over the throttle body, Fueling runs theirs up and back down and zip ties it to the bottom of the frame by the floorboard (exposing it to road grime and water). Some DIYers here run it back and tuck it behind the saddlebag and one other ran a short hose straight up behind the side cover (near ABS module).

My question is, how important is the location? I like the clean look of hiding it behind the side cover but wouldn't that leave the potential for getting oil spray on the ABS module? I'm not sure how likely it is for that much oil to run through that system but the shorter hose leads me to believe it is possible. I also like the clean look of the A1Cycles version (they seem to be on sale right now) but the location just seems odd to me.

I'm not even sure I am going to do this but wanted to get some feedback in the event I do. And the big question, is pre-emptively doing this worth it?

Also, I'm assuming should I need to bring my bike in for service (I do most of my own service and I am out of warranty), I would need to remove this setup and put the OEM dipstick back in due to EPA regulations.

TIA for any input and Happy New Year!

 

I’m wondering about vented dipsticks as well. Right now, I have hose on my breather bolts that runs down to the frame and vents to the air without any filter. A little oil does drip out of it but not enough to leave any on my shop floor. I figure it’s better to run it down hill so any oil that gets past the umbrella valves will run out of the hose and not be an obstruction.

With a vented dipstick, I would think the oil in the line will run back down into the oil tank. So I’m wondering how much, if any, oil actually gets into and dips out of the filter on the end of the hose. It would be nice to hear from those that are using one.

 

Sounds like you overthought this very well.
take your best guess, I would think a good up/down would stop anything from being sucked up in the hose, I don't think bugs would crawl in a stinky hose. If you have a lot of discharge out the hose you could reroute.

 

We drill/tap the OE dipstick in one of our lathes(could be configured in a drill press also) to 1/8-27 NPT, install a fitting and plumb the hose/filter up under the seat.
Very clean set up.
About $15.00.
Same set up on my 131".
We have seen 1-1 1/2 hp increase on occasion, but the way we have found to virtually eliminate unwanted oil mist in the intake tract is to drill the rocker support drains to .125-.130", and that is done on each, and every build here.
Scott

 

Thanks Scott. How much oil actually makes it to the filter? Is it negligible? I'm assuming since you place it under the seat that it is never excessive.

 

I recently installed the A1 Cycles vented dipstick (cap only...no dipstick rod) in powder coated black. I looped the line over and into my side cover, placing the pod filter just to the left of the ABS unit. I also installed some quick connectors (Mcmaster Carr) in the line just above the cap. This allows easy disconnect of the line, enabling easy removal of the cap without turning the entire line to remove it. I placed my OEM dipstick in the saddle bag so I can check my oil when needed. I'm of the same thought...remove the vented cap and put the OEM dipstick in for service visits. This way no worries with EPA crap.

Today I rode the bike into work for the first time after the install...about 50 miles one way. My ride in was kinda cool, so I'm not sure if that has any effect on the oil misting. Regardless, after the bike cooled down, I went out and checked the pod filter. Very pleased to find it completely dry and free of any oil. I'll check it again when I get home, but so far I'm very pleased with the results. More to come when I have more saddle time in.

 

I now have 800+ miles on mine and no oil misting at all. I have even removed the hose from the dipstick and put a q-tip in that end and shows no oil residue. I am going to move mine behind the side cover eventually. Right now it's installed as recommended.

 

The instructions from A1 Cycles recommends placing it in an area that prevents any wind which may create a vacuum and suck oil into the pod filter. Placing it behind the side cover next to the ABS unit provides it that protection. The one thing recommended that I have not done is lowering the oil level. Something about that doesn't sound right to me. As long as the misting doesn't create an oily leaky mess on the pod filter, I'm leaving the oil level alone!

 

I lowered my oil level as A1 recommended, it's halfway between full and add when hot so it's still well within recommended range. I used to keep the oil level up to the full line when hot. So far the level has stayed spot-on. There are a few threads here where guys mentioned running their oil at the low end of the dipstick without issue.

 

You have a pic of those Mcmaster fittings?