I want to start to do my own maintenance on my bike and will need to acquire a few tools. What would be a better torque wrench to buy - ft lbs or inch lbs. If you buy a torque wrench in inch lbs can you convert to ft lbs (i.e. 12 inch lbs = 1 ft lb) ? What would be a good range for a torque wrench, I see one rated for 30-250 in.-lbs ?

 

Buy both.

 

Dave is right...should have both...but if funds are an issue at the moment, get the Ft Lbs one first. For some reason I use that one more than the other. I am sure you probably have a list for the rest, and a good set of sockets is a solid investment. To go with that I bought a set of Allen head sockets...which is a lot easier to use than the allen wrenches. Ditto on Torx head sockets.

 

Get both (actually get three). Harbor Freight runs them on sale for $10 each, usually not at the same time. Their regular price isn't bad either and you can usually find a 20% off coupon on the net. Not all their stuff is junk, the torque wrenches have rated as good or better (for accuracy) compared to more expensive brands in every test report I've seen. I've been using them for years.
While your there pick up an impact driver (the kind you hit with a hammer). It'll probably cost about $5, great tool for loosening stubborn screws and bolts.
Also get a T-27 torx bit that will fit it (you may want to buy that somewhere else).

 

If you can only afford one, get the ft-lb torque wrench first. Inch-pounds usually can be estimated by applying torque relative to the size of the screw or bolt that you are tightening.

While you're shopping, pick up a tube of Locktite Blue.

 

You might also consider the tool for checking your drive belt tension and another tool, I can't remember the name of, but it keeps you rear axel in place while you tighten it down to 105 ft lbs.

 

Just as an interesting note, for weak old folks like me, the wrench in the tool kit supplied with H-D touring models, intended to remove and tighten the nut on the rear axel is too short. I bought the adapter than has a square hole in it for 1/2 inch breaker bars just to loosen the nut. I did not tighten the nuts up as much as the factory, so that, on the road, the wrench in the tool kit will work - if necessary.

Regarding Harbor-Freight tools, although they are cheap, for occasional use, they are fine. If you intend to go into business, avoid them - they will not last in daily use.

 

Everyone, thanks for the input and advice.

 

If you don't already have them, the H-D service manual and parts manual for your bike are indispensable. A must have.

As stated already, hex key sockets (SAE) and Torx sockets, short and long reach are almost required. You can (maybe) get by with the "L" wrenches and T-handles but for loosening bolts you need sockets.

A vote for both ft-lb and in-lb torque wrenches. The click or electronic are best because the bar-type can be a bit hard to see for certain applications, like drain plugs.

While H-D recommends a strap-type oil filter wrench, I prefer the end cap type with a 3/8 in drive, for loosening the filter. DON'T USE TO TIGHTEN.

 

And, don't forget to include a 10mm wrench, for the battery. I've been told that there might be a few other metric fasteners on the bike, but I'm not aware of them.