Want to run the open element look on my Road King, went to the dealer to get the kit for it and first of all the dealer told me that HD doesn't make a kit (total BS, I found on on HD's website, part 28728-10). Dealer then told me if I went aftermarket for the open look I'd have to get my bike re-tuned. I already have the Stage 1 air filter kit and true duals and the matching tune. Anyone running the open set up rather than the OEM filter cover and have to get re-tuned?

 

There are many variables with what causes a "required" re-tune, and what doesnt. Also lots of opinions on the best way to "re-tune" but there are a range of options at many price points.

If you go to the SE AC with the football cover, its no different than any other open filter, the football itself without the plastic backing doesnt cause any air flow restrictions.

If you are only doing an open AC (no new head pipes or mufflers), your ECM will adjust fine.

In fact even if you do replace head pipes and mufflers and open AC, your ECM and sensors will adjust, but you'll be back to EPA standards which most think is too lean.

Cheap solution is XIEDs they plug in between your sensors and ECM to fool the ECM into adding more fuel. About $120 http://sales.nightrider.com/Harley-Davidson_c_12.html.

Beyond that, there are a whole range of aftermarket tuners you can get, ranging from $450 to $800, some of which require Dyno time, others that you can get a canned map for your setup which will give you 95% of where you'd be with a dyno.

 

I have local dealer that sounds about like yours, they argued that i couldnt get a bulb for my light bar on my fat boy because it didnt come stock

 

good luck, hope you get it figured out. Hard to say what will cause a re-tune to be necessary. Every bike is different, depends on your altitude etc etc. Most dealers don't like to encourage changing ANYTHING from how the bike came off the showroom anymore

 

Thanks Keithhu. Not changing anything else, just want to toss the football cover and run the open element with my Willie G skull insert because I like the look.

 

Well then I'd say you are good to go, put that thing on, and put your middle finger in the air when you pass your dealer.

 

Time for a new dealer.

 

I did the same thing last year and it made no difference. I since added power duals and cams and then I had it dyno'd! You should have no issues just removing the football cover.

 

My thoughts exactly! Open element is all I have ever ran on my touring bikes and if you already have a tune for a stage 1 kit then you are good to go! H-D does also sell a rain sock/cover for the round open filter that looks pretty cool and it will help if you get caught in some rain.