Removal
NOTICE
Install air filter before running engine. Failure to do so can draw debris into the engine and could result in engine damage. (00207a)
NOTE
At regular intervals, inspect the air filter element. Under dusty conditions, inspect more often. Refer to Maintenance Scheduling → Regular Service Intervals → Regular Service Intervals: 2014 Sportster Models.
  1. See Figure 1. Remove the cover screw(s), trim (except XL 1200V) and the air cleaner cover.
  2. Inspect the filter element.
  3. Remove and clean the air filter element if necessary.
1Cover screw (2)
2Trim
3Cover
4Seal
5Element screw (3)
6Filter element
7Gasket
8O-ring (2)
Figure 1. Air Cleaner
Cleaning 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)
NOTE
  • Do not tap the filter on a hard surface to dislodge dirt.
  • Replace the filter element if damaged or if the element cannot be cleaned.
1. Wash the filter in warm soapy water.
NOTE
The filter is clean if light is visible through it.
2. Hold the filter up to a light.
NOTE
Do NOT use air cleaner filter oil on the paper/wire mesh element.
WARNING
Compressed air can pierce the skin and flying debris from compressed air could cause serious eye injury. Wear safety glasses when working with compressed air. Never use your hand to check for air leaks or to determine air flow rates. (00061a)
3. Air dry or blow dry the filter from the inside with low pressure air.
Installation
NOTE
Check that the O-rings on the breather tubes are in place.
  1. If removed, install the air filter element:
    1. Install the baseplate gasket.
    2. Install the air filter element.
    3. Apply a drop of LOCTITE THREADLOCKER 243 (blue) to the threads of the element screws.
    4. Install the element screws.
    5. Tighten to specification. Refer to Table 1.
  2. Install the air cleaner cover:
    1. Verify the air cleaner seal is in place.
    2. Install the cover.
    3. Install the trim (except XL 1200V) and the screw(s).
    4. Tighten to specification. Refer to Table 1.
Table 1. Air Cleaner Fastener Torque
FASTENER
TORQUE
Air filter element screws
4.5–6.8 N·m (40–60 in-lbs)
Air filter cover screw(s)
4.1–6.8 N·m (36–60 in-lbs)