Harley Davidson Motorcycles and Used Parts

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We give a hearty welcome to Geoff Brown. Geoff is restoring two Harley Davidson's and has agreed to share his experiences with the Used Hog Parts members.

Check out his BLOG where he has begun posting his trials and tribulations along with some great pictures of his pet projects.

The inaugural ride of the year is a very energizing time. It can even be more thrilling if you make the effort to set up your Harley the right way prior to that ride. In colder areas, it is crucial to "dethaw" your bike. The following hints are matters you need to take into consideration once you set out to prepare your bike for the first ride of the season. Your bike's owner's manual should include a list for a regular service also.

Valves: It is commonly standard operating procedure to adjust the valves when the motor is cold. Likewise, give the cam lobes a shot of oil when you are finished since the old oil has probably run off. Last but not least, be certain to torque the cylinder head.

Battery: If your bike was ridden during the winter, you should be good to go. If your bike was in storage during the winter, be sure to check it closely. Either way, it's always a good idea to give it a regular check-up. Check the fluid level and slow charge. Make sure the vent tube is connected and routed. If it doesn't look like it's in good shape, replace it before it causes problems.

Oil: Whether your bike was in storage or not, this is a good time to change your filter and oil.

Fuel: Filling your tank prior to storage during the winter is an acceptable way to avert corrosion, but the fuel will in all likelihood be stratified. To prevent this, you can use a fuel stabilizer. Before turning on your petcock and allowing fuel into the carb, be sure to unplug the fuel line and empty the fuel tank entirely. Clean your fuel filter and check the tank for rust. If your carb float bowl(s) were not drained prior to storage, pull them off now and check them out. Varnished cottage cheese is a sign that you in all likelihood have clogged jets. Try using carb cleaner, but you might need to replace your jets and get a professional de-clogging done also.

Engine: In order to protect the cylinder walls and rings on those first couple of revolutions put a shot of oil in each spark plug hole followed by a few spins of the engine with the plugs. Check the gaps when you pull the plugs. Be sure to service additional engine items such as the air filter, carb synch, drive-line fluids, etc.

Brakes: Check the brake shoes and pads. Replace if necessary. Install fresh brake fluid.

Then - get out there and enjoy your ride.