2013 FLHX
1800 Miles
CFR Slip ONs
Big Sucker
De-Cat
Fl-VIeds
Did first service at 1100 Miles. Changed all 3 holes.

I got caught in a rainstorm 2 days ago and decided to meticulously clean up the bike. Upon cleaning i noticed the following see pictures -

Is this normal? It looks like oil is seeping out of the bolts - should I clean up real good and take back to dealer? IF So - do i put back on stock air cleaner, pipes and remove vieds? I had a fatboy and never seen this happen - if I am over-reacting just tell me please!!

 

Is that rust on the heads or just the lighting?

I would use a toothbrush and some cleaner and scrub the head bolts clean. Then ride the bike for awhile and check it again.

If the coating on the bolt(s) comes back, back to the dealer if it's under warranty or buy a torque wrench and a service manual (for the torque values ++++) and see if the bolt(s) are torqued correctly.

 

In my opinion I think you're over reacting just a bit. Keep an eye on it and if it gets worse then take it in to the dealer.

 

It is not rust, just bad lighting.

The substance on the headbolt seems oily and tacky. From looking at pics again I can see a shadow around the bolt hole where it appears it meay have been seeping for a while.

 

Like I said, clean them up and ride it. If it returns, deal with it then....Oil doesn't get tacky, what do you use to clean and/or brighten your heads up with? It may also be some tread sealer HD used when they installed the heads.

 

Rust on aluminum? Hmmmm...

Torque em, clean'em, watch'em.

 

What color is rust and what color is visible in the pictures????

I haven't lost my mind yet!!!!!

 

Honestly i haev never cleaned the bike except cleaning/polishing the chrome and hand/spray washing the smooth painted parts.

The gritty/matte paint finish on the engine and heads is a PITA to try and clean, what are your suggestions for that finish>?

I am goin go clean and polish up those bolts and see if it returns after another round of rides!!! Thanks for the heads up

 

How many miles on the bike...?

 

the cylinder head bolts are tightened with a special method, not just by a torque number.


for many, many years- this is not something to guess about.


I don't think the OP has any concern, on assembly the bolt threads and the under side of the bolt head are coated with 20w50. I think that is what we are seeing

if you are using any cleaner- carefully read the bottle- s100 ( for instance) can damage certain surface finishes, and should only be applied to a cool motor.
other products may have certain limitations

mike