Service Department Frequently Asked Questions

Service Department Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in a Harley-Davidson service?

‐ The mileage of the bike dictates what is done at each particular service, but all services include the following:
  • Engine oil and filter change
  • Transmission fluid change
  • Primary fluid change
  • Air filter inspection and replacement (parts additional) if needed
  • Spark plug inspection and replacement (parts additional) if needed
  • Brake pads and system inspection (parts additional) if needed
  • Tires inspected (parts and labor additional)
  • Suspension inspected
  • Cables: throttle, idle, and clutch cables adjusted (if applicable)
  • Full clutch adjustment (if applicable), no adjustment req'd on hydraulic clutch
  • Critical fasteners tightened
  • Axle nuts checked
  • Spoke wheels adjusted (additional labor)
  • Battery inspection: condition and fasteners tightened
  • Electrical components inspection, condition and operation
This is why it is important to have your bike services at the factory's specified intervals. These services are much more than an oil change

How long does a service take?

‐ Depending upon the model of the bike and the mileage, services take anywhere from 2 ‐ 6 hours. Most services can be completed in the same day by appointment.

When/How can I make an appointment?

‐ Call the Service Department @ 915‐592‐5804 or 915‐504‐6102.

Can I go longer between oil change if I use H-D Syn3 lubricant?

‐ NO, the service interval does not change for engine oil with Syn3. H-D recommends that the engine oil be changed at least every five thousand miles, depending upon rider, rider style, and conditions. Sometimes more frequent oil changes are warranted.

How long should my battery last?

‐ Typically battery life is approximately three years, but can be much better or much worse depending on usage of the motorcycle. Battery tenders are always recommended to keep batteries at their optimum charge level when not riding. Battery tenders do not bring batteries back from the dead. Once the battery has been discharged for any length of time, a load tester for CCA's (cold cranking amps) is necessary to see if the battery can be brought back to operating level.

How long is my H-D battery warranty?

‐ Two years with the factory warranty on a new motorcycle. One year if the battery is purchases from the parts department.

Why are my pipes turning yellow and blue?

‐ High performance motorcycle engines develop large amounts of heat, causing bluing and discoloration to chromed pipes, especially at the header.
Motorcycle exhaust pipes are usually chrome plated. The chrome serves as a protection against rust, abrasion, and the occasional oil spray. While chrome is a uniquely inert coating, even the best plating job will turn yellow, gold, and then blue when subjected to the extreme temperatures that can be generated in a high-performance engine. An out-of-tune engine can cause bluing far down the motorcycle pipe where the exhaust is supposed to be cooler. Almost every new bike will blue the header pipe for a few inches from the head in the first several hundred miles.

So what is the answer? Purchase high quality products that have excellent shielding, and keep your bike serviced and tuned. In the end, remember, all pipes will discolor because of high heat. On a well-tuned bike, the discoloration dissipates the further the distance from the exhaust header. Great manufacturers know that heat shields keep pipes looking great.

What are your service hours?

‐ Monday ‐ Saturday 9:00 – 6:00 pm.

How often should I check my tire pressure?

‐ A daily rider should check the tire pressure once every week. For the weekend warriors every time you saddle up.

I want my bike to be loud. Can you cut the baffles out of my exhaust for me?

‐ No, we will not cut baffles out of the exhausts of motorcycles. Barnett Harley-Davidson encourages riders to use responsible sound levels when operating their motorcycle. Every city has their own ordinances on noise levels; some will even issue tickets. Check with your local city offices for further details.

Can I request a specific technician?

‐ Yes you can. Just let us know if you prefer a specific technician when you schedule your appointment and we will do our best to accommodate your request.

Why do my brakes squeak or rub?

‐ Brake dust causes squeaking, keep rotors clean and calipers free of debris. The rubbing is normal, brakes require minimal pad to rotor clearance.

Do you work on anything other than Harley-Davidson and Buells?

‐ No, our technicians are trained in Harley-Davidson and Buell product lines only.

Can I drop my bike off after hours?

‐ We currently do not offer that service

Do I need an appointment for a Texas State Safety Inspection?

‐ No, we do not take appointments for inspections. We inspect from 9:30 AM until 45 minutes before closing. Inspections are done first come, first serve and you may wait up to 30 mins. But, there is always hot coffee and a good conservation to help pass the time.

How can I increase my motorcycle's performance?

‐ By using the best settings exactly matched to the equipment on your motorcycle, you will get the best possible performance. Note that "performance" includes not only the maximum power, but also good drivability, smooth running engine, and good fuel economy.