02/08/2022
I wanted to explain a little about a service and what your technician should be doing during a service based on mileage.
The pic is a maintenance chart for a 09 softail. And the info below is based on this year and model.
The big services are your 10/20/30,000 mile service.
The 5/15/25/35,000 mile services are just as important IF you keep up with the big services.
Services include:
Engine oil and filter- should be changed regularly at most every 5k miles (synthetic or conventional) I recommend every 3k miles until the oil changed is clean.
Oil lines and brake system-not just checking leaks but functionality. Brake pads should be inspected every oil change. Oil lines will need to be cleaned First if a leak is suspected. Then normal riding and reinspected.
Air cleaner- Harley's are designed to recirculate oil spray from engine into intake. This means your air filter gets nasty quick. This should be inspected regularly and cleaned every oil change.
Tires- NEED inspected every time you ride. I will inspect them every time I see your bike service or not. Cupping, under inflation, worn tires are common.
Wheel spokes- this needs to be checked by someone that knows what they are doing. However you can tap on each spoke and listen for sound changes if loose spokes are suspect.
Primary fluid and transmission fluid- should be changed every 10k miles. Service manual says 20k for transmission but recommend just change ALL fluids at services.
Clutch- FULL clutch adjustment should be done with every service. Check freeplay yourself there should be 1/8" play in lever. If you have troubles finding NEUTRAL you may need an adjustment.
Rear belt and sprockets- should be inspected every time you ride. Also BOTH sprockets. Tension should be set at every service.
Throttle brake and clutch controls- already mentioned clutch adjustment. Lubricate both cables. Throttle adjustment is always over looked. Should snap back and have less than 1/8" play. Check for brake lever position and for spongy brakes.
Jiffy stand- aka kickstand. Should not squeek. Replace your spring if it is loose.
Fuel lines-if you smell gas it probably leaks.
Fuel filter- this is IN your tank. Replace at 25k miles. Replace your lines and regulator while your in there.
Brake fluid- replace every 2 years or check for % of water in it. Spongy brakes are bad.
Brake disk- if your lever moves when you apply front brakes have them inspected for run-out.
Spark plugs- every dealer will change them every 10k miles. It's only $10 but they are designed to last longer.
Electrical- should be checked before you ride.
Idle speed- NO potato potato
Fork oil- replace oil at 50k miles. Suggest a full fork service at that time tho.
Steering head bearing- this is checked with fallaway procedure. If you have a wobble in the bars at 40mph get this adjusted.
Springer front end need lubed alot. Rocker bearings should be done by someone that knows what they are doing.
Critical fasteners- reference your manual for critical fasteners. You will need a torque wrench for this.
Battery- do a full battery test recommended. Use a trickle charger always.
Exhaust- check fasteners. Check gaskets for damage and leaks.
Road test- the most important part of a service. Make sure someone qualified does this.
This is a VERY SIMPLIFIED list. For the average rider that doesn't know what a service is. If you have questions please ask!
