Harley Davidson Softail 2021 MAINTENANCE AND LUBRICATION User Manual

MAINTENANCE AND LUBRICATION

MAINTENANCE

WARNING
Perform the service and maintenance operations as indicated in the regular service interval table. Lack of regular maintenance at the recommended intervals can affect the safe operation of your motorcycle, which could result in death or serious injury. (00010a)

WARNING
If you operate your motorcycle under adverse conditions (severe cold, extreme heat, very dusty environment, very bad roads, through standing water, etc.), you should perform the regular maintenance intervals more frequently to ensure the safe operation of your motorcycle. Failure to maintain your motorcycle could result in death or serious injury. (00094a) Service your motorcycle at the regular service intervals. Road conditions like dust, rain or riding styles can require servicing the motorcycle at more frequent intervals. See Service Intervals and Records (Page 211). Though some of these procedures can be performed with a minimum of tools, always consult your Harley-Davidson dealer for updates. Remember, your authorized Harley-Davidson dealer always services your motorcycle with the latest factory approved methods and equipment.

Record each service to maintain the new motorcycle warranty. See Service Records (Page 211).

BREAK-IN MAINTENANCE

NOTE
The performance of new motorcycle initial service is required to keep your new motorcycle warranty in force and for proper emissions system operation.
After a new motorcycle has been ridden 1000 mi (1,600 km), visit an authorized Harley-Davidson dealer for initial service. Refer to Service Records (Page 211).

PREPARING THE MOTORCYCLE FOR MAINTENANCE

WARNING
Be sure to check capacity rating and condition of hoists, slings, chains and cables before use. Exceeding capacity ratings or using lifting devices that are in poor condition can lead to an accident, which could result in death or serious injury. (00466c)

NOTE
Always support a motorcycle that is being serviced with blocks or stands.

Setting Motorcycle Upright

1. Place motorcycle upright on a level surface or suitable lift, if available.
2. Verify that the motorcycle is level.
3. Secure with tie-downs.

DISPOSAL AND RECYCLING

Help protect our environment! Many communities maintain facilities for recycling used fluids, plastics and metals. Dispose of or recycle used oil, lubricants, fuel, coolant, brake fluid and batteries in accordance with local regulations. Many Harley-Davidson parts and accessories are made of plastics and metals which can also be recycled.

ENGINE LUBRICATION

Engine Lubrication

CAUTION
Prolonged or repeated contact with used motor oil may be harmful to skin and could cause skin cancer. Promptly wash affected areas with soap and water. (00358b)

CAUTION
If engine oil is swallowed, do not induce vomiting. Contact a physician immediately. In case of contact with eyes, immediately flush with water. Contact a physician if irritation persists. (00357d)

NOTICE

Do not switch lubricant brands indiscriminately because some lubricants interact chemically when mixed. Use of inferior lubricants can damage the engine. (00184a) Always use the proper grade of oil for the lowest temperature expected before the next scheduled oil change. Refer to Table 41.
This motorcycle was originally equipped with GENUINE HARLEY-DAVIDSON H-D 360 MOTORCYCLE OIL 20W50. H-D 360 is the preferred oil under normal operating conditions. If operation under extreme cold or heat are expected, refer to Table 41 for alternative choices.
If necessary and H-D 360 is not available, add oil certified for diesel engines. Acceptable designations include: CH-4, CI-4 and CJ-4. The preferred viscosities, in descending order are: 20W50, 15W40 and 10W40. At the first opportunity, see an authorized dealer to change back to 100 percent Harley-Davidson oil.

Table 41. Recommended Engine Oils

TYPE	VISCOSITY	LOWEST AMBIENT TEMPERATURE	COLD-WEATHER STARTS BELOW 50 °F (10 °C)
Screamin’ Eagle SYN3 Full Synthetic Motor- cycle Lubricant	SAE 20W50	Above 30.2 °F (-1 °C)	Excellent
Genuine Harley-Davidson H-D 360 Motorcycle Oil	SAE 20W50	Above 39.2 °F (4 °C)	Good
Genuine Harley-Davidson H-D 360 Motorcycle Oil	SAE 50	Above 60.8 °F (16 °C)	Poor
Genuine Harley-Davidson H-D 360 Motorcycle Oil	SAE 60	Above 80.6 °F (27 °C)	Poor

Low Temperature Lubrication

Change engine oil often in colder climates. If motorcycle is frequently ridden less than 15 mi (24 km), in ambient temperatures below 60 °F (16 °C), reduce oil change intervals to 1500 mi (2,400 km).

NOTE
Lower ambient temperatures require more frequent oil changes. Water vapor is a normal by-product of combustion. During cold-weather operation, some water vapor condenses to liquid form on the cool surfaces inside the engine. In freezing weather, this water becomes slush or ice. If the engine is not warmed to operating temperature, accumulated slush or ice blocks the oil lines and causes engine damage. Over time, water will accumulate, mix with the engine oil and form a sludge that is harmful to the engine. If the engine is allowed to warm to normal operating temperature, most of the water evaporates and exits through the crankcase breather.

CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL

CAUTION
Prolonged or repeated contact with used motor oil may be harmful to skin and could cause skin cancer. Promptly wash affected areas with soap and water. (00358b)

NOTICE
Do not overfill oil. Doing so can result in oil carryover to the air cleaner leading to equipment damage and/or equipment malfunction. (00190b)

NOTE
Check engine oil level at each complete fuel refill.

Oil Level Cold Check

1. Place vehicle on level ground resting on the jiffy stand.
   NOTE
   Oil level on a cold engine should never be above the midway point.
2. See Figure 51. Check engine oil level.
   •  Remove filler plug/dipstick.
   • Wipe off the dipstick.
   • Insert the dipstick and tighten into the fill spout.
   • Remove filler plug/dipstick.
   • See Figure 52. Check oil level. The correct cold oil level is midway (2) between the ADD QT (1) and FULL HOT (3) marks on the dipstick.
3. If oil level is at or below the ADD QT mark, add only enough oil to bring the level to the ADD QT mark.
4. Start and idle engine on jiffy stand for two minutes. Turn off engine.
5.  Check oil level. Add only enough to bring level midway between the ADD QT (1) and FULL HOT (3).

Oil Level Hot Check

Do not allow hot oil level to fall below Add/Fill mark on dipstick. Doing so can result in equipment damage and/or equipment malfunction. (00189a)
NOTE
Perform engine oil level hot check only with engine oil at normal operating temperature.

1. Ride motorcycle until engine oil reaches at least 200 °F (93 °C) or higher.
2. Allow engine to idle for 1-2 minutes on jiffy stand. Turn off engine.
3. See Figure 51.
4. Check oil level.
   • Remove filler plug/dipstick.
   • Wipe off the dipstick.
   • Insert the dipstick and tighten into the fill spout.
   • Remove filler plug/dipstick.
   • See Figure 52. Check oil level. Oil level must register between the ADD QT and FULL HOT marks on the dipstick.
5. If oil level is at or below the ADD QT mark, add only enough oil to bring the level to the FULL HOT mark. Do not overfill.

Figure 51. Engine Oil Filler Plug

Figure 52. Engine Oil Dipstick

CHANGE OIL AND OIL FILTER

WARNING
Be sure that no lubricants or fluids get on tires, wheels or brakes when changing fluid. Traction can be adversely affected, which could result in loss of control of the motorcycle and death or serious injury. (00047d)

NOTICE
Do not switch lubricant brands indiscriminately because some lubricants interact chemically when mixed. Use of inferior lubricants can damage the engine. (00184a)

• Change engine oil at the first 1000 mi (1,600 km) for a new engine. After the initial service, change oil at regular intervals in normal service at warm or moderate temperatures. Refer to Service Records (Page 211).
• Change oil at more frequent intervals in cold weather or severe operating conditions. See Winter Lubrication in Engine Lubrication (Page 132).

1. Run motorcycle until engine is at normal operating temperature. Turn off engine.
2. Remove filler plug/dipstick.
   NOTE
   Replace drain plug O-ring.
3. See Figure 53. Remove the oil drain plug (2) and O-ring Allow oil to drain completely.
   NOTE
   Use P&A Oil Catcher (Part No. 62700199) or equivalent to keep drain oil off crankcase when removing oil filter. Residual drain oil could falsely appear as a crankcase oil leak at a later time.
4.  Remove the oil filter using oil filter wrench and hand tools. Do not use with air tools.
   Special Tool: OIL FILTER WRENCH (94863-10) Special Tool: OIL FILTER WRENCH (94686-00)
5. Clean the oil filter mount flange.
6. Clean any residual oil for crankcase and transmission housing.
7. See Figure 54. Install new oil filter.
   • Lubricate gasket with a thin film of clean engine oil.
   • Install new oil filter.
   • Hand-tighten oil filter one-half to three-quarters of a turn after gasket first contacts filter mounting surface. Do NOT use oil filter wrench for installation.
8.  Install engine oil drain plug and new O-ring Torque: 14–21 ft-lbs (19–28.5 N·m) Engine oil drain plug.
   NOTE
   Use the proper grade of oil for the lowest temperature expected before the next oil change. Refer to Table 41 for recommended oil.
9. Add an initial volume of engine oil. Refer to Table 42.

Table 42. Initial Oil Fill

ITEM	QUANTITY
Engine oil initial fill	4.0 qt (3.8 L)

1. •  Verify proper oil level. See Check Engine Oil Level (Page 134).
   • Perform engine oil level cold check.
   • Start engine and carefully check for oil leaks around drain plug and oil filter.
   • Perform engine oil level hot check.

Figure 53. Engine Oil Drain Plug

Figure 54. Lubricating New Oil Filter Gasket

OIL COOLER

Vehicle is equipped with an oil cooler. Keep the cooler clean and free from dirt and debris to maintain maximum cooling efficiency.

Figure 55. Oil Cooler

CHECK TRANSMISSION LUBRICANT

NOTE
Check transmission fluid with the motorcycle at ambient temperature. Inspect transmission dipstick O-ring. Replace if necessary.

1. Park motorcycle on a level surface on jiffy stand.
2. Remove right side cover. See Side Covers (Page 168).
3. See Figure 56. Remove transmission filler plug/dipstick. Wipe dipstick clean.
4. Install filler plug/dipstick until O-ring contacts the case. Do not tighten.
5.  See Figure 57. Remove filler plug/dipstick. Check lubricant level on dipstick. Proper oil level is between the Add (A) (1) and Full (F) (2) marks.
   NOTICE
   Mixing mineral-based lubricants with SYN-3 in the transmission can damage the transmission. (00452b)
6. If lubricant level is low, add recommended Harley-Davidson lubricant to bring level to between the A mark and the F marks. Refer to Table 43.
7. Install filler plug/dipstick. Tighten.
   Torque: 25–75 in-lbs. (2.8–8.5 N· m) Transmission filler plug/dipstick
8.  Install right side cover. See Side Covers (Page 168).

Figure 56. Transmission Filler Plug/Dipstick Location

Figure 57. Transmission Lubricant Level

Table 43. Recommended Transmission Lubricants

LUBRICANT	QUANTITY *
	fl oz	L
FORMULA+ TRANSMISSION AND PRIMARY CHAINCASE LUBRICANT	28	0.83
SCREAMIN’ EAGLE SYN3 FULL SYNTHET- IC MOTORCYCLE LUBRICANT 20W50	28	0.83
* Fill quantity for a transmission lubricant change.

CHANGE TRANSMISSION LUBRICANT

1. See Figure 56. Remove transmission filler plug/dipstick.
   WARNING
   Be sure that no lubricants or fluids get on tires, wheels or brakes when changing fluid. Traction can be adversely affected, which could result in loss of control of the motorcycle and death or serious injury. (00047d)
2. See Figure 58. Remove transmission drain plug. Drain transmission.
3.  Clean and inspect drain plug and O-ring.
   NOTICE
   Do not over-tighten filler or drain plug. Doing so could result in a lubricant leak. (00200b)
4. Install drain plug with new O-ring. Tighten. Do not over-tighten. Torque: 14–21 ft-lbs (19–28.5 N·m) Transmission drain plug.
5. Fill the transmission with recommended Harley-Davidson lubricant. Refer to Table 43.
   Volume: 28 fl oz (0.83 L)
6. Check lubricant level. Add enough lubricant to bring the level between the add (A) and full (F) marks. See Figure 57.
7. Install filler plug/dipstick. Tighten Torque: 25–75 in-lbs (2.8–8.5 N·m) Transmission filler plug/dipstick

Figure 58. Transmission Drain Plug

CHANGE PRIMARY CHAINCASE LUBRICANT

1. Run motorcycle until engine is at normal operating temperature. Turn off engine.
   WARNING
   Be sure that no lubricants or fluids get on tires, wheels or brakes when changing fluid. Traction can be adversely affected, which could result in loss of control of the motorcycle and death or serious injury. (00047d)
2. Secure motorcycle upright (not leaning on jiffy stand) on a level surface.
3. See Figure 59. Drain primary chain case.
4.  Clean drain plug magnet. If plug has excessive debris, inspect the condition of chain case components.
5.  Install drain plug and new O-ring. Tighten.
   
   

Figure 59. Removal/Installation of Chain case Drain Plug

• See Figure 61. Remove screws (3) and clutch inspection cover (2).
• Remove seal (1). Wipe oil from primary cover and groove in inspection cover.

NOTE
Seal installed in groove in primary cover.

NOTICE
Do not overfill the primary chain case with lubricant. Overfilling can cause rough clutch engagement, incomplete disengagement, clutch drag and/or difficulty in finding neutral at engine idle. (00199b)

•  Add lubricant.
  • Pour specified amount of FORMULA+ TRANSMISSION AND PRIMARY CHAINCASE LUBRICANT through clutch inspection cover opening. Refer to Table 44.
  •  See Figure 60. Proper level is approximately at bottom of pressure plate OD.

Table 44. Primary Chain case Lubricant

ITEM	DRY FILL(2)		WET FILL(3)
	Oz	L	Oz	L
Amount(1)	40	1.18	36	1.06
(1) Amount is approximate. Fill to bottom of pressure plate OD with vehicle upright. (2) Cover was removed and installed. (3) Lubricant was drained through the drain plug only.

Figure 60. Primary Chaincase Lubricant Level

• Install clutch inspection cover and new seal:
  • See Figure 61. Install new seal (1) in groove in cover.
  • Secure clutch inspection cover with screws with captive washers (3).
  • See Figure 62. Tighten in sequence shown. Torque: 25–35 in-lbs (2.8–3.9 N·m) Clutch inspection cover screws

Figure 61. Clutch Cover (Typical)

Figure 62. Clutch Cover Tightening Sequence

INSPECTING BRAKE PADS AND DISCS

Brake Pads
Harley-Davidson has provided your new motorcycle with the optimum brake pad friction material available. It is selected to give the best performance possible under dry, wet and high operating temperature conditions. It exceeds all regulatory requirements currently in effect. However, during some braking conditions you may experience noise. This is normal for this friction material.

WARNING
Always replace brake pads in complete sets for correct and safe brake operation. Improper brake operation could result in death or serious injury. (00111a)

1. Check the brake disc as it spins. The disc should run true in the brake caliper.
2. See Figure 63. Measure the thickness of the brake pad friction material.
   NOTE
   The pads do not necessarily wear evenly. The grooves on the brake pads are no longer visible when the pads are near the end of service life. See Figure 64.
3. Refer to Table 45. If the brake pad friction material is at the minimum thickness or less, replace the pads. Always replace brake pads in pairs. See a Harley-Davidson dealer.

Figure 63. Brake Friction Material

Figure 64. Brake Pad Wear Grooves

Table 45. Minimum Brake Pad Friction Material Thickness

MODEL : in : mm
All:  0.040:  1.0

CHECKING SYSTEMS FOR LEAKS OR ABRASIONS

Check all lines and hoses for leaks, damage or abrasions. Refer to Service Records (Page 211) for the appropriate intervals.

• Fuel system and fuel lines
• Oil cooling system and oil lines
• Brake system and brake lines

CHECKING BRAKE FLUID LEVEL AND CHANGING BRAKE FLUID

NOTE

• At every service, check moisture content of fluid using DOT 4 BRAKE FLUID MOISTURE TESTER (PART NUMBER: HD-48497-A). Follow the instructions included with tool.
• Flush brake system and replace DOT 4 fluid every two years or sooner if brake fluid test shows moisture content is 3% or greater.
• Do not add or remove fluid from the brake system to compensate for normal wear. Reservoir volume is adequate to provide fluid to the wear limits of the pads and discs.
• Fluid level in reservoir will decrease with brake wear. If fluid level is low, check brake pads and discs for wear. See Inspecting Brake Pads and Discs (Page145).
• Checking Brake Fluid Level

1.  Set motorcycle upright. Verify that the fluid in the reservoir is level. See Preparing the Motorcycle for Maintenance (Page 131).
2. Front: See Figure 65. Check level in front reservoir sight glass. Level must be above minimum mark on side of reservoir.
3. Rear: See Figure 65. Check level on side of rear brake reservoir. Level must be above minimum mark on side of reservoir.

Figure 65. Brake Fluid Reservoirs

Changing Brake Fluid

WARNING
Contact with DOT 4 brake fluid can have serious health effects. Failure to wear proper skin and eye protection could result in death or serious injury.

• If inhaled: Keep calm, remove to fresh air, seek medical attention.
• If on skin: Remove contaminated clothing. Rinse skin immediately with plenty of water for 15-20 minutes. If irritation develops, seek medical attention.
• If in eyes: Wash affected eyes for at least 15 minutes under running water with eye lids held open. If irritation develops, seek medical attention.
• If swallowed: Rinse mouth and then drink plenty of water. Do not induce vomiting. Contact Poison Control. Immediate medical attention required.
• See Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for more details available at sds.harley-davidson.com
• WARNING
  DOT 4 brake fluid absorbs moisture from the atmosphere over time, changing the properties of the fluid. Check brake fluid moisture content at every service interval or annually (whichever comes first). Flush and replace the brake fluid every two years, or sooner if moisture content is 3% or greater. Failure to flush and replace fluid can adversely affect braking, which could result in death or serious injury. (06304b)

NOTICE
DOT 4 brake fluid will damage painted and body panel surfaces it comes in contact with. Always use caution and protect surfaces from spills whenever brake work is performed. Failure to comply can result in cosmetic damage. (00239c) To ensure the brake system is performing to design, check the moisture content of the brake fluid at every service interval or at least annually using a DOT 4 brake fluid moisture tester (part number HD-48497-A or equivalent) following the instructions included with the tool. Flush DOT 4 fluid every 2 years or sooner if the brake system fluid test shows moisture content is 3% or greater.

Harley-Davidson recommends using Harley-Davidson Platinum Label DOT 4 Brake Fluid because of its superior moisture and corrosion inhibiting properties.

CHECKING CLUTCH AND BRAKE CONTROLS

Clutch Hand Lever
The clutch hand lever should move smoothly through its full range See a Harley-Davidson dealer for service.

Brake Hand Lever

• The brake hand lever should move smoothly through its full range.
• Verify the brake hand lever has a firm feel when applied.

See a Harley-Davidson dealer for service.

MISCELLANEOUS LUBRICATION

Refer to Service Records (Page 211) for all maintenance schedules.

NOTE
Use recommended SPECIAL PURPOSE GREASE for steering head bearings. Use a multipurpose chassis grease for other applications.

1. Lubricate clutch control cable with HARLEY LUBE.
2. Lubricate front brake hand lever and clutch control hand lever only if necessary.
3. Inspect rear fork pivot shaft bearings.
4. Pack the steering head bearings with SPECIAL PURPOSE GREASE at recommended service intervals.
5. Lubricate the jiffy stand mechanism with SILVER GRADE ANTI-SEIZE.

NOTE
For model specific information regarding the chassis lubrication, see the service manual or a Harley-Davidson dealer.

CHECK DRIVE BELT DEFLECTION

NOTE
Always use BELT TENSION GAUGE (PART NUMBER: HD-35381-A) to measure belt deflection. Failure to use tension gauge may cause under-tensioned belts. Loose belts can fail due to “ratcheting” (jumping a tooth) which causes tensile cord crimping and breakage.

Check deflection:

• With transmission in neutral.
• With motorcycle at ambient temperature.
• With motorcycle upright or on jiffy stand with rear wheel on the ground.
• With the vehicle unladen: no rider, no luggage and empty saddlebags.

WARNING
To prevent accidental vehicle start-up, which could cause death or serious injury, remove main fuse before proceeding. (00251b)

1. Disarm security system. Remove main fuse. See FUSES (Page 180).
2. Shift transmission to neutral.
   NOTE
   When adjusting a new belt, rotate rear wheel a few revolutions prior to setting the tension.
3. See Figure 66. Measure belt deflection using BELT TENSION GAUGE (PART NUMBER: HD-35381-A):
   •  Slide O-ring (4) to zero mark (3).
   • Models equipped with belt deflection window: Fit belt cradle (2) against bottom of drive belt in line with belt deflection window.
   • All other models: Fit belt cradle (2) against bottom of drive belt halfway between drive pulleys.
   • Press upward on knob (6) until O-ring slides down to 10 lb (4.54 kg) mark (5) and hold steady.
4. Measure belt deflection:
   • Models equipped with belt deflection window: See Figure 67. Measure belt deflection as viewed through belt deflection viewing window while holding gauge steady. Each deflection graduation is approximately 1/16 in (1.6 mm).
   •  All other models: See Figure 68. Measure amount of deflection (4) while holding gauge steady.
     NOTE
     Service belt tension specification is for belts with more than 1000 mi (1,600 km). Set belt to new belt tension specification if the belt has less than 1000 mi (1,600 km).
   • Compare with specifications. Refer to Table 46. If not within specifications, see a Harley-Davidson dealer.
   •  Install main fuse.

Download this and other documents free of charge at https://serviceinfo.harley-davidson.com.

Table 46. Drive Belt Deflection

MODEL	DEFLECTION (1)
	in	mm
Service belt tension	1/2-9/16	12.7-14.2
New belt tension	3/16-1/2	4.7-12.7
(1) Deflection measured at 10 lb (4.5 kg) tension.

Figure 66. Belt Tension Gauge

1. Belt tension gauge
2.  Belt cradle
3. 0 lb (0 kg) mark
4. O-ring
5. 10 lb (4.5 kg) mark
6.  Knob

Figure 67. Belt Deflection Window

1. Drive belt
2. Deflection graduations (Approx: 1.5 mm (1/16-in)

Figure 68. Checking Belt Deflection

1. Transmission sprocket
2.  Rear wheel sprocket
3. 10 lb (4.5 kg) of force
4.  Amount of deflection

MECHANICAL CLUTCH

NOTICE
The clutch control cable must be oiled and adjusted periodically to compensate for lining wear. Failure to oil and adjust the clutch control cable can result in equipment damage. (00203c)

Adjust the clutch control cable at specified intervals. Refer to Service Records (Page 211). If the clutch slips under load or drags when released, the control cable may need to be adjusted or clutch service may need to be performed. See a Harley-Davidson dealer for service.

HYDRAULIC LIFTERS

The hydraulic lifters are self-adjusting. They automatically adjust length to compensate for engine expansion and valve mechanism wear. This keeps the valve mechanism free of lash when the engine is running. When starting an engine which has been turned off even for a few minutes, the valve mechanism may be slightly noisy until the hydraulic units completely refill with oil. If at any time the valve mechanism becomes abnormally noisy, other than for a short period immediately after engine is started, it is an indication that one or more of the hydraulic units may not be functioning properly. Always check the engine oil level first since normal circulation of oil through the engine is necessary for proper operation of the hydraulic lifters. If engine oil is at the proper level, the lifters may not be functioning properly because of dirt in the oil supply passages leading to the lifter units. See a Harley-Davidson dealer for service.

MAINTAINING FRONT FORK

WARNING
Regularly inspect shock absorbers and front forks. Replace leaking, damaged or worn parts that can adversely affect stability and handling, which could result in death or serious injury. (00012a) Have a Harley-Davidson dealer drain the front fork oil and refill at proper intervals. Rebound action of the fork will be impaired if the fork oil level is low. If fork does not appear to be working properly or a significant oil leak should develop, see a Harley-Davidson dealer. Refer to Service Records (Page 211) for all maintenance schedules.

ADJUSTING STEERING HEAD BEARINGS

WARNING
Adjustments to steering head bearings should be performed by a Harley-Davidson dealer. Improperly adjusted bearings can adversely affect handling and stability, which could result in death or serious injury.(00051b)

Refer to Service Records (Page 211) for all maintenance schedules.
See a Harley-Davidson dealer to adjust the steering head bearings.

CHECKING FOR EXHAUST LEAKS

Refer to Service Records (Page 211) for all maintenance schedules.

1. Allow exhaust components to cool.
2. Check exhaust system for obvious signs of leakage such as carbon marks or marks at pipe joints.
   • Check for loose or missing fasteners.
   • Check for fractured pipe clamps or brackets.
   • Check for loose or fractured exhaust shields.
3. Correct any detected leaks. See a Harley-Davidson dealer.

SHOCK ABSORBERS
Inspect shock absorbers and rubber bushings for leaks and bushing deterioration at proper intervals.

WARNING
Shock absorber cannot be serviced. Attempting service can cause an explosion, which could result in death or serious injury. (00602d)

• Do not refill, disassemble, puncture or expose shock to flames.
• Replacement and disposal should only be done by an authorized Harley-Davidson dealer.

INSPECTING AIR FILTER

Removal
Round air cleaner

1. See Figure 69 or Figure 70. Remove air cleaner cover.
   • Remove screws (1).
   • Remove cover (2).
2. Remove filter element.
   • Remove screws (6).
   • Remove filter element (4) while pulling breather tube
3.  from element.
4. Remove breather tube (5) from breather bolts.
5. Inspect the breather tube and fittings for damage. Replace if necessary.
6.  Clean and inspect the filter element. Replace if necessary.

Oval air cleaner

1.  See Figure 71. Remove air cleaner trim insert.
   • Remove trim insert screws (1).
   • Remove trim insert (2).
   • Remove cover and filter element.
   •  Remove screws (3).
   • Remove cover (4).
   • Remove filter element (5).
2. Clean and inspect the filter element. Replace if necessary.

Cleaning Filter Element

NOTE

• Do not strike filter element on a hard surface to dislodge dirt.
• Do not use air cleaner filter oil on the Harley-Davidson paper/wire mesh or synthetic air filter element.

WARNING
Do not use gasoline or solvents to clean filter element. Flammable cleaning agents can cause an intake system fire, which could result in death or serious injury. (00101a)

1.  Clean filter element.
   • Wash the filter element and breather tubes in lukewarm water with a mild detergent.
   • Synthetic element: Rinse filter element with clean water. The filter element is sufficiently clean when water running from the filter element appears clear.
   • Allow filter element to air dry or use low-pressure compressed air from the inside.
   •  Paper/wire mesh element: Hold the filter element up to a strong light source. The element is sufficiently clean when light is uniformly visible through the media.
   • Replace the filter element if damaged or if filter media cannot be adequately cleaned.

Rain Sock

If equipped with oval air cleaner: See Figure 71. In wet or rainy conditions, because the filter element is exposed, water can enter the engine. When parked, water can cause internal engine corrosion or damage. When running, water can cause the engine to misfire. In wet or rainy conditions, install the rain sock over the air cleaner assembly to minimize water intrusion.

Installation
Round air cleaner

1. See Figure 69 or Figure 70. Install filter element.
   • Install breather tube (5) onto breather bolts.
   • Install filter element (4) while pushing breather tube into element.
   • Install screws (6). Tighten. 48–72 in-lbs (5.4–8.1 N·m)
2. Verify that rubber seal (3) is properly seated and not damaged. Replace if necessary.
   • Install air cleaner cover.
   •  Apply LOCTITE 243 MEDIUM STRENGTH THREADLOCKER AND SEALANT (BLUE) (99642-97) to threads of screw (1).
   •  Install cover (2).
3.  Install screw (1).
   • Single-screw cover: Tighten. 50–65 in-lbs (5.6–7.3 N·m)
   • Five-screw cover: Install screws (1).
   • Tighten in a star pattern. 48–72 in-lbs (5.4–8.1 N·m)

Oval air cleaner

1. See Figure 71. Install cover and filter element.
   • Install filter element (5).
   • Install cover (4).
   • Install screws (3). Tighten. 50–60 in-lbs (5.7–6.75 N·m)
2.  Install air cleaner trim insert.
   •  Install trim insert (2).
   •  Install trim insert screws (1). Tighten. 27–32 in-lbs (3–3.6 N·m)

Figure 69. Air Cleaner: Single Screw

1.  Cover screw
2.  Cover
3. Seal
4.  Filter element
5.  Breather tube
6.  Filter screws (3)

Figure 70. Air Cleaner: Five Screw

1. Cover screw (5)
2. Cover
3.  Seal
4. Filter element
5. Breather tube
6. Filter screws (3)

Figure 71. Air Cleaner: Oval

1. Screw (2)
2. Trim insert
3. Screw (2)
4. Cover
5. Filter element
6. Rain sock

LUBRICATING FUEL CAP LOCK

Lubricate fuel cap lock with HARLEY LUBE.

CLEANING BATTERY

See Battery Maintenance (Page 162) for cleaning instructions.

REPLACING SPARK PLUGS

WARNING
Disconnecting spark plug cable with engine running can result in electric shock and death or serious injury.(00464b)

CAUTION
Do NOT pull on any electrical wires. Pulling on electrical wires may damage the internal conductor causing high resistance, which may result in minor or moderate injury.(00168a)

NOTE
Fuel tank removal improves access to the center spark plug. Refer to the service manual or see a Harley-Davidson dealer for service.
Check the spark plugs at proper intervals. Refer to Service Records (Page 211).

1. Disconnect spark plug cables from plugs by pulling up on the molded connector caps.
2. Check spark plug type. Only use spark plugs specified for your model motorcycle.
3. Check spark plug gap against specifications. Refer to Table 18.
4. Always tighten to the proper torque. Spark plugs must be tightened to the torque specified for proper heat transfer. Refer to Table 18.
5. Connect each molded connector cap until the cap snaps firmly into place over the spark plug.

CHECKING ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT AND SWITCHES

WARNING
Be sure headlamp, tail and stop lamp and turn signals are operating properly before riding. Poor visibility of rider to other motorists can result in death or serious injury. (00478b) Check all electrical equipment and switches including the tail lamps, turn signals, headlamp and horn for proper operation.

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Reference Links

View Full User Guide: Harley Davidson Softail 2021 User Manual

Download link: https://www.harley-davidson.com/be/nl/index.html