Harley Air Cleaner - A Guide to Choosing the Right Kit and Parts
Harley-Davidson motorcycles can be modified to suit owners’ needs. Everything from the wheels to the paint can be customized for self-expression. Keeping this in mind will help you in your search for the right air cleaner and cover. While getting recommendations from other motorcycle enthusiasts is certainly helpful, your choice should ultimately reflect your own personality and preferences.
A Harley air cleaner kit comes with a case, element (or filter), and cover. The element, which could be disposable or reusable, filters out the dirt and decreases emissions and fuel consumption. You need to choose a high quality kit in order to maximize performance and to increase horsepower and torque. A good air cleaner will automatically adjust as you ride so that your Harley will run fast without using up too much fuel.
Performance and appearance are two things you need to consider when looking for a Harley air cleaner. Chrome is always a great choice since it is very durable and aesthetically pleasing. Chrome looks great on any Harley and will last a very long time. There are numerous designs available, and an increasing number of shops are offering to make custom designs.
When searching for parts, you need to decide whether you want a simple or extreme upgrade. If you want to change the stock air cleaner, but keep the current cover, you can save a lot of money. However, if you want to upgrade everything, you need to look for some full kits. Extreme upgrades are more costly, so make sure you invest wisely in the parts. Buy only from manufacturers that test products to ensure engine protection. The testing should not only be done in-house, but in independent labs as well.
Manufacturers also sell cleaners and oils specially designed for each individual kit. As mentioned above, you can choose between reusable and disposable filters. If you buy the former, you will need the right kind of cleaner and oil for maintenance. A well designed filter will last for thousands of miles before it has to be taken out and cleaned and re-oiled. While disposable filters are much cheaper, reusable ones will save you more money in the long run.
Whether you decide to buy all the parts separately, order a kit, or pay for special customization, you will need to install the Harley air cleaner and supplies. This is something with which you need to be careful, since making one mistake can be problematic. In order to replace the filter, you need to remove the cover, remove the air filter, and clean the housing thoroughly with a clean cloth. After ensuring that everything is clean, you will have to add oil to the new filter. Look around and make sure none of the parts are damaged before finally installing the new filter.
The last step before placing the cover back on is to ensure that the element is securely connected and positioned properly. If you want to order a new cover, it needs to be the right size and fit. There are plenty of how-to guides and videos on the internet that will explain everything in detail if you need help.