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)
Check the spark plugs at proper intervals. Refer to Maintenance Scheduling → Regular Service Intervals → Regular Service Intervals: 2011 Sportster Models.
  1. Disconnect spark plug cables from plugs by pulling up on the molded connector caps.
  2. Check spark plug type. Only use those spark plugs specified for your model motorcycle.
  3. Check spark plug gap against specifications table.
    4. NOTE
    If a torque wrench is not available, tighten new spark plugs finger-tight and then tighten an additional one-quarter turn with a spark plug wrench.
  4. Always tighten to the proper torque. Spark plugs must be tightened to the torque specified for proper heat transfer. Refer to Specifications → Specifications → Electrical: XL Models or Specifications → Specifications → Electrical: XR 1200X.
  5. Connect each molded connector cap until the cap snaps firmly into place over the spark plug.