Just picked up a set of DimpleŽ drain plugs including the fourth plug, a 1/4" N.P.T. plug for the dry sump.

No one I've talked to can tell me where the dry sump plug is. No mention of a dry sump plug in the service manual either.

Anybody know where the mysterious 1/4" N.P.T. dry sump plug is on a 2011 FLHX 103'???

 

Do not--I repeat--DO NOT EVER mess with that plug. There is no reason to EVER remove that plug...it is for factory use ONLY. It has a tapered thread, and it is extremely easy to crack the case if you overtighten it!

Not enough oil remains in the sump during an oil change to be of any consequence.

 

It does exist, look under the bike and you will find it. I agree and disagree with "dickey", it is very criticle. I replaced mine because I bought a set of high powered magnets for all 4 plugs when I had my engine redone, if you rplace it be very careful, and do not over do it. If you bought a set with high powered magnets like me, the directions should be with the kit.

 

Some people don't like the idea of that much residual oil left. I have read a few horror stories about cracking the case, but my guess would be it be due to not following torque specs (especially for a tapered thread). Since there is no mention in the service manual that it is necessary to drain the sump, I just leave it alone for simplicity.

I mistakenly removed this plug on the first oil change I ever did on my previous Softail by assuming this was the main drain plug. I thought maybe the plug had galled or cross-thread, only to find the red thread locker on there when it finally busted loose . After confirming this was the sump plug, I reinstalled it per torque spec from the service manual, no problem.

To the OP, the plug is on the bottom of the case more towards the front of the bike. To be conservative, just stay on the lower side of the torque spec when reinstalling.

 

Obviously NOT that silly of a question! Thanks for bringing it up and thanks to those in the know that answered - good to know!