Harley-Davidson Street Glide: Replacing Fuel Filter, Step-By-Step Guide

Harley-Davidson recommends changing the fuel filter on your Street Glide every 25,000 miles. However, some owners opt to do so more frequently, especially if they're unsure of the last time it was changed. While modern gasoline is highly refined and clean, contaminants can still get into the tank and be stopped by the fuel filter element, causing it to become clogged over time. This can hinder engine performance and, in some cases, cause the bike to become unrideable.

The fuel filter should be changed every 25,000 miles

The fuel filter on a Street Glide motorcycle should be changed every 25,000 miles. This is a recommendation from Harley Davidson, the manufacturer of Street Glide motorcycles, and is based on their service manual for the 2007 model.

Changing the fuel filter is an important part of maintaining your motorcycle. Fuel filters ensure that the fuel entering your engine is free of contaminants, such as dirt or rust, which can cause engine problems. A clogged fuel filter can lead to poor engine performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and even engine damage.

Some Street Glide owners have reported changing their fuel filters at different intervals, such as every 10,000 or 30,000 miles, or not changing them at all. However, it is generally recommended to follow the manufacturer's guidelines to ensure optimal performance and prevent potential issues.

Changing your fuel filter can be a relatively easy task, but it is important to be careful and follow the correct procedure to avoid spills and other issues. It is also a good idea to refer to your motorcycle's service manual or seek advice from a qualified mechanic if you are unsure about the process.

In addition to fuel filter changes, there are other maintenance tasks that should be performed on your Street Glide at regular intervals, such as checking for fuel leaks and changing the fuel hose, to ensure the fuel system is in good working condition.

A clogged filter can hinder engine performance

A clogged fuel filter can hinder the performance of your Street Glide engine to the point that your bike may become unrideable. While modern gasoline is highly refined and quite clean, contaminants can still get into the tank and be stopped by the fuel filter element. When this happens, the pump has to work harder, which can cause it to fail prematurely. Many rideability issues and a general lack of engine performance can be linked back to a dirty fuel filter.

Harley-Davidson recommends replacing the fuel filter at 25,000-mile intervals. However, some owners have reported changing their fuel filter at 10,000, 25,000, 30,000, or 50,000 miles. One owner reported that their service manual for a 2016 RGU stated to change the filter every 100,000 miles, but they felt that this was "not a good plan" after seeing how dirty their filter was after 40,000 miles.

If you have not changed your fuel filter in a while, you may want to inspect it for dirt and clogs. This can be done by removing the fuel pump and fuel filter assembly, which is located under the fuel tank console. The process for doing so varies depending on the model year of your Street Glide, but it generally involves disconnecting the battery and fuel pump assembly, removing the fuel tank console, and then removing the fuel pump and filter assembly.

Once you have access to the fuel filter, you can inspect it for dirt and clogs. If the filter is dirty or clogged, you should replace it with a new one. You can purchase a replacement fuel filter online or from a Harley-Davidson dealer. Be sure to refer to your Street Glide's service manual or a reputable repair guide for detailed instructions on removing and replacing the fuel filter.

Disconnect the battery before changing the filter

Disconnecting the battery is an important safety step when changing the fuel filter on a Street Glide. It's always a good idea to disconnect the battery when working with fuel system components, as it prevents the possibility of an electrical short and potential fire hazard.

To disconnect the battery, first, remove the fastener at the rear of the seat and slide the seat unit rearward to free it from the bike. Then, remove the ECM plate, which is located under the seat, by taking out the T40 torx fastener. If your bike has a security system, remember to slide the antennae off the plate before removing it. With the battery now accessible, disconnect the negative (-) cable.

It is important to note that some bikes may require the removal of the seat strap before the seat unit can be taken out. Additionally, make sure to re-connect the battery cable(s) before reinstalling the ECM plate and antennae, if applicable.

By following these steps, you can safely disconnect the battery and proceed with changing the fuel filter on your Street Glide.

You will need a 1/4 drive ratchet and extension

To change the fuel filter on a Harley-Davidson Touring model, you will need a 1/4 drive ratchet and extension. This is because the fuel pump assembly is located in the fuel tank and you will need to remove several fasteners to access and remove the pump.

The 1/4 drive ratchet and extension will be used to remove the hex (Allen) fasteners that hold the tank console in place. For pre-2008 models, there are two additional fasteners located under the fuel filler door that will also need to be removed. Once the console has been removed, you can then access the fuel pump assembly and begin the process of replacing the fuel filter.

It is important to note that Harley-Davidson recommends replacing the fuel filter at 25,000-mile intervals as a clogged filter can cause rideability issues and affect engine performance. Additionally, the in-tank fuel lines should also be inspected and replaced if necessary, as they are prone to cracking and leaking.

When removing the fuel pump assembly, be sure to place a soft towel on the rear fender and carefully lay the console on it. This will allow you to remove the pump assembly without having to disassemble the console. For pre-2008 models, you will also need to disconnect the fuel pump harness plug and fuel vapor vent line, as well as remove the screws securing the canopy assembly to the fuel tank.

By following these steps and using the appropriate tools, such as the 1/4 drive ratchet and extension, you can successfully replace the fuel filter on a Harley-Davidson Touring model.

The fuel filter is located in the fuel tank

To change the fuel filter on a Street Glide, you'll first need to locate it in the fuel tank. The fuel filter is responsible for straining any unwanted contaminants from the fuel before it reaches the fuel injection system. While modern gasoline is highly refined, contaminants can still get into the tank and cause issues.

Step 1: Locate the Fuel Filter

Before beginning any work, it is important to consult your Street Glide's service manual for specific instructions and safety precautions. The fuel filter on a Street Glide is located inside the fuel tank. To access it, you will need to remove the fuel tank console, which is held in place with hex fasteners. Remove the front and rear fasteners to free the console from the tank. For pre-2008 models, there are an additional two fasteners located under the fuel filler door. Place a soft towel on the rear fender and carefully lay the console onto it.

Step 2: Disconnect the Fuel Pump Assembly

The next step is to disconnect the fuel pump assembly, which sits inside the fuel tank. For pre-2008 models, disconnect the fuel pump harness plug and fuel vapor vent line. Using a T20 torx driver, remove the screws securing the canopy assembly to the fuel tank. Lift the canopy/fuel pump assembly slightly and cut the hose clamp securing the corrugated tube. Be careful not to let the cut clamp fall into the tank.

Step 3: Remove the Fuel Pump Assembly

The fuel pump assembly sits in an "L" position inside the tank and needs to be unlocked and unfolded to remove it. Use a screwdriver or similar tool to depress the black locking tab, allowing the pump to swing open. You can now lift the pump assembly out of the tank.

Step 4: Replace the Fuel Filter

With the pump assembly out of the tank, you can now access the fuel filter. On pre-2008 models, swing the wireform securing strap off of the filter body and remove the hold-down tab. Cut the hose clamp connecting the corrugated fuel line to the filter and separate the filter from the pump assembly. Install a new o-ring onto the fuel filter, then attach the corrugated fuel hose and secure it with a new hose clamp. Ensure that the filter hold-down tab is engaged, and slide the wireform securing strap back into place.

Step 5: Reassemble

Finally, carefully reassemble all the components in the reverse order, making sure to use a new canopy gasket (pre-2008 models) or locking ring gasket (2008+ models). Torque the fasteners to the specified values and reconnect the battery and fuel pump fuse.

By regularly replacing your Street Glide's fuel filter and following these steps, you can help ensure optimal engine performance and avoid issues caused by contaminated fuel.

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