2021 FLHT front suspension?
Stellar HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2020
Posts: 3,184
Likes: 2,226
From: College Station, TX
I don't believe the 2016 Touring models have drain plugs in the lower forks, or fill plugs in the top cap like the 41 mm (13 and earlier) front end had. Working on the 49 mm lower legs on later model touring bikes is different from the previous models if you haven't had one apart yet. You might consult your HD manual on the steps involved.
Draining and refilling involves removing the lower legs, replacing the seals and any worn parts (bushings) and them refill with oil to the peoper level. And it does require some special tools to measure the oil level when refilling, and to compress the fork springs when putting things back together. I made a tool out of allthread and large washers and the longer nuts while holding the tube in the lower tree to dissasemble and them reassemble than after rebuilding the units. It was slow going but worked fine otherwise.
It's a good time to chrome or go black as desired. But pick your oil carefully because there is no simple drain and refill with a heavier or lighter oil if you aren't happy with what you tried. Personally, The Type E works well for me.. But I can see trying a mix of SE racing and Type E if you are concerned about front end dive during braking. And to achieve less dive, you may need to accept a slightly more harsh ride.
With the (older) lighter sport bikes, HD FXE etc, I used dextron auto trans oil and was happy with that at the time. Not sure how that would work for a heavier touring bike.
Paul
Draining and refilling involves removing the lower legs, replacing the seals and any worn parts (bushings) and them refill with oil to the peoper level. And it does require some special tools to measure the oil level when refilling, and to compress the fork springs when putting things back together. I made a tool out of allthread and large washers and the longer nuts while holding the tube in the lower tree to dissasemble and them reassemble than after rebuilding the units. It was slow going but worked fine otherwise.
It's a good time to chrome or go black as desired. But pick your oil carefully because there is no simple drain and refill with a heavier or lighter oil if you aren't happy with what you tried. Personally, The Type E works well for me.. But I can see trying a mix of SE racing and Type E if you are concerned about front end dive during braking. And to achieve less dive, you may need to accept a slightly more harsh ride.
With the (older) lighter sport bikes, HD FXE etc, I used dextron auto trans oil and was happy with that at the time. Not sure how that would work for a heavier touring bike.
Paul
Last edited by pgreer; Mar 5, 2022 at 04:29 PM.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 20,616
Likes: 4,440
From: anacoco, la
^ what he said. it's a lot of 'trial and error' to get the perfect mix, and with the 49mm forks, it isn't as easy as it used to be. so, you're gonna have to make an educated guess. figure out what is more important to you? a plush ride, or a firmer, more planted ride? if you want something in the middle, 1/2 and 1/2 it and go with it. i guarantee in 10,000 miles, you'll think it's perfect (you'll have gotten used to it by then ;D)
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