I'm on my 3rd Harley, and have never changed a fuel filter to date on any of them in probably 100K of combined road miles. It is a maintenance item, and if either I have a reason they need to get into the fuel system at the local shop or I start having fuel issues, I'll get it done.

 

That is the response I hoped for, bless you......from another, "retired old fart".

VR

 

I changed mine at 25k and it looked bad.
Pretty simple to change, you need to buy a tool to remove a ring on the tank.
Get the service manual.

 

this was mine at 60k



I think it was due.........

 

I suggest changing the filter, no special tool needed. I use a brass punch with a blunt end. Tape around the fuel canopy to prevent scratches then tap the punch with a hammer on the lock ring ears (like unscrewing a jar lid) to unlock the ring. Reverse the procedure to reinstall.

 

Okay, I'm convinced. Thanks to all and thanks SCHMIDTY for the tool tip.

 

It seems to me that the tool for the removal of the tank ring is reasonably priced and should be part of a tool kit for anyone who plans to own a bike for an extended period of time. Thank you SCHMIDTYS for the tool tip in the interim!

 

That special tool is dangerous, seen a few dinged tanks in the shop from it. The dang thing is so heavy it falls off the 1/2" ratchet. It's a two handed tool !

 

IMHO, I have the tool, used it as per my comment above. ;-) You could scratch the tank if your not careful, but I'd say that its more dangerous to use the alternative way without. It's pricey but cheaper than a paint job

 

How much time is required to change this? If not long, why not just have the dealer do it and let them have the responsibility of effin it up?

 

Dealer would charge about 1 hr labor.

 

How long would it take a weekend mechanic?

 

That used filter would suggest a lot of crap in the premium gas we buy. . . . or the tank is rusting and flaking.

Keep your tanks full. . . less likely to rust

 

About 2hrs for the DIY at home. Ya gotta be careful getting the filter seated correctly in the spring clamp or the filter will leak pressure and the engine won't run. The engine will run for a minute or 2 until the throttle body fuel log is empty then the engine won't restart ! Then ya gotta take everything all back apart again !!!
Best to reference the factory service manual for this type of work.

 

Thanks Schmidty

 

Buckshot...when it gets nice enough...if it ever does, ride your scooter around Lake Winnebago and we can change your filter out and learn...then once we've got it figured out, when can do mine...just a thought...
:rollin:thumb:banana:cheers

 

Gotcha. I've got a ways to go. Maybe by fall. We'll see how ambitious I am. Thanks HD.

 

Subscribed.

 

In did mine in less than 1 hour with a plastic tool I bought on EBAY for about $20.00 .

 

Plastic being the advantage to not scratch your tank as much? Just trying the follow this carefully, Changing mine out this weekend. Thanks everyone

 

Does it look sort of like this?

OTC 6760 Fuel Filter Wrench | eBay

 

No....I will try and find a link or pic.
It has a handle, you don't use a ratchet.

 

Found a pic of the Jim's retaining ring tool. It does look awkward. I'd drill a bunch of holes in it to lighten it up a ton. They are pretty proud of it at Dennis Kirk. $132.

 

This is it.
https://www.denniskirk.com/lang-tools/fuel-tank-lock-ring-tool.p283501.prd/283501.sku

 

Does it seem durable enough to last several uses?

 

I think it would last several uses.

 

Premium gas would be the my choice & don't buy it when the truck is dumping it in the ground could save you alot of grief

 

Wow that's a lot of ching for that little tool !

 

You said, "little tool."

 

Lol I knew I was going to get it as soon as I hit post quick reply ! Did not think it would be that quick though. Thanks Chief !

 

I'm focussed.

 

Thought I'd add the " How to" video to the thread. The "HD tool" looks eager to dent sh!t.... Pretty straight forward job though.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SYOsc7NBhBo