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[rheiner]

I completely agree that the more information you have the better, especially if you are going to be working on your bike, which for cvo models includes buying the main and supplemental service manuals, parts manual, and electrical diagnosis manual. I lol and shake my head when I see a post from someone asking a question on here when they admit they don't have the manuals but don't really need them because they are quite "mechanically inclined". I feel bad for the person who buys that used or traded in bike.

[kiro]

I lol and shake my head when I see a post from someone asking a question on here when they admit they don't have the manuals but don't really need them because they are quite "mechanically inclined".

I suspect you'd have to be a little better than 'mechanically inclined' to do much without a service manual to support the effort. A lot of experience & knowledgeable friends would prove useful for certain, but the various manuals are a key component. As Jerry has pointed out several times, there's much to be learned just reading through the manuals even if you don't wrench.

[rheiner]

A number of years ago I was in California and needed some service work done. Because of his reputation on this site I made an appointment with hd-dude. I don't remember a whole lot about what he did to my motorcycle but one thing sticks out in my mind. He was constantly referring to the service manual to check torque specs. That was a good lesson for me. When I read on this site about stripped crankcase bolts, broken exhaust studs, etc. it makes me wonder if it's more than likely that the bolts were over torqued and the manuel was not used in the repair.

[Fired00d]

I completely agree that the more information you have the better, especially if you are going to be working on your bike, which for cvo models includes buying the main and supplemental service manuals, parts manual, and electrical diagnosis manual. I lol and shake my head when I see a post from someone asking a question on here when they admit they don't have the manuals but don't really need them because they are quite "mechanically inclined". I feel bad for the person who buys that used or traded in bike.

They are a "must have" even if you don't IMO. I don't work on mine but have all the manuals. I've found them helpful in trouble shooting and diagnosing a problem before taking it to my indie to fix. IMO I think it helps develop a (positive) relationship w/the person (if not you) that is fixing your bike and you if you display some knowledge when bringing the bike in for service. And as was stated earlier the parts breakdown with P/N are extremely valuable when replacing parts if needed.

 
Ride Safe,
Fired00d