Panhead Battery and Lubrication Points

In Part 1, Kevin takes us through the Panhead service intervals. To access the Panhead battery, Kevin raises the seat. He removes one decorative cover along with the Panhead battery securing cover and a dampening pad. Maintenance-free batteries are now available for most Harley-Davidson motorcycles. However, your Panhead may still have a conventional, acid filled battery. When this is the case, it is important that the battery electrolyte level is checked.

Kevin shows us how to properly inspect electrolyte level with a separate Panhead battery on the bench. There are minimum and maximum level marks on the battery shell. If the level is incorrect on one or more battery cells, remove the corresponding battery caps and correct the fluid level. Always inspect battery cables and battery securing hardware when addressing the Panhead battery.

The remaining service points are per the 1948 to 1957 Panhead lubrication chart found in the factory service manual. Kevin notes that the lubrication chart covers all models. If there is a grease fitting that you can not locate, don’t make yourself crazy. Your model may simply not have a grease fitting in that location.
Kevin locates fittings at the seat post and at the seat. Both fittings receive a small pump of grease.

As previously mentioned, the Panheads brake systems are not hydraulic. The brakes are fully mechanical, consisting of levers, shafts, and linkages. Every moving and pivoting point needs to be inspected and/or lubricated. Kevin pumps grease into a Zerk fitting at the rear brake lever and at another fitting at the crossover shaft. There is also a fitting at the rear brake arm.

Four of the most important grease fittings are on the wheels. Two fittings on the front wheel hub and two on the rear hub. These fittings feed grease to the wheel bearings. Kevin lubricates the front brake cable. He inspects the shift assembly and rocker clutch for free movement.

Learn more about Kevin Baas in this interview.

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