Ever find yourself shivering on a chilly ride, wishing you had a little extra warmth? You’re not alone. Many Harley riders face the same struggle when the temperature drops, making those long rides less enjoyable.
Key Takeaways
- Essential Tools: Gather necessary tools including screwdrivers, wrenches, wire strippers, and a heat gun for a smooth installation process.
- Preparation: Prepare your Harley by ensuring it’s stable, disconnecting the battery, and using safety gear to prevent accidents.
- Grip Removal: Use warmth from a heat gun to assist in removing existing grips, ensuring to clean the handlebar surface afterward.
- Wiring Connections: Connect heated grips following proper wiring color codes, securing all connections with electrical tape for safety.
- Installation Verification: After securing the grips, test their functionality by activating the heating element and checking for even heat distribution.
- Enjoy Rides: With successful installation, enjoy enhanced comfort and warmth during chilly rides on your Harley Davidson.
Tools Required For Installation
Gathering the right tools is essential before starting the installation of heated grips on your Harley Davidson. Ensure you have the following items readily available:
- Screwdriver Set: A flathead and Philips screwdriver for removing and securing grip components.
- Wrench Set: A combination of metric and SAE wrenches to disconnect and reconnect battery terminals.
- Wire Strippers: Use wire strippers for preparing electrical connections effectively.
- Heat Gun or Hair Dryer: A heat gun helps to loosen adhesive on old grips, making removal easier.
- Electrical Tape: Utilize electrical tape for securing wire connections.
- Zip Ties: Zip ties help organize wiring under the handlebars for a clean installation.
- Protective Gloves: Wearing gloves keeps your hands safe and clean during the process.
Check your tools before starting. Having everything you need on hand simplifies the installation and reduces frustration. Prepare your workspace to ensure safety and efficiency while you work on your bike.
Preparing Your Harley Davidson
Before starting the installation of heated grips on your Harley Davidson, ensure your bike is ready. Preparing your motorcycle properly can streamline the process and enhance safety.
Safety Precautions
Safety is crucial during any installation. First, park your motorcycle on a stable surface and turn off the ignition. Disconnect the battery to avoid any electrical mishaps. Wear gloves to protect your hands, and if you’re using tools, ensure they’re in good condition. Using safety glasses prevents any debris from causing eye injuries during the installation.
Removing Existing Grips
Removing existing grips is the first step in installing heated grips. Start by gently twisting and pulling the grips off the handlebars. If they’re stuck, a heat gun or hairdryer can soften the adhesive. Be cautious; excessive heat may damage the handlebar covers. Once the grips come off, clean the handlebar surface to remove any residue that might interfere with the installation of the new grips.
Installing Heated Grips
Installing heated grips on your Harley Davidson enhances comfort during chilly rides. Follow the steps below to ensure proper installation.
Wiring and Electrical Connections
- Disconnect the battery. Start by removing the negative terminal to avoid any electrical shorts.
- Identify the wiring harness. Locate the wires that connect to the handlebar controls.
- Connect the heated grips. Attach the grips’ wires to the corresponding wires in the harness, following the manufacturer’s color codes.
- Secure connections. Use electrical tape or heat shrink tubing to protect and secure each connection. This helps prevent corrosion and ensures a stable connection.
- Reconnect the battery. After wiring, connect the negative terminal back to the battery. Test the grips to make sure they function correctly.
- Prepare the handlebars. Clean the handlebar surface again to ensure a good grip.
- Align the grips. Slide the heated grips onto the handlebars, ensuring they fit snugly without twisting.
- Adjust for comfort. Position the grips so that the control buttons are easily accessible.
- Secure the grips. Use grip glue or double-sided tape to hold the grips in place firmly. Allow any adhesive to cure as recommended by the supplier, if applicable.
- Test functionality. Start your motorcycle and make sure the heated grips operate well. Check all temperature settings to ensure they’re in working order.
Following these steps ensures a successful heated grip installation on your Harley Davidson.
Testing The Heated Grips
After the installation is complete, testing the heated grips ensures they function correctly. Follow these steps for an effective test.
Check the Connections
- Inspect the wiring connections for any loose or exposed wires.
- Ensure all connectors snap into place securely.
- Verify that the grips are properly positioned on the handlebars.
Power Up the System
- Reconnect the battery. Make sure the battery terminals are tight and secure.
- Turn the ignition key to the “On” position without starting the engine.
Test the Heated Grips
- Activate the heated grips by pressing the switch. Some models feature multiple heat settings—select your preferred level.
- After a few minutes, feel the grips to confirm they are warming up.
- If the grips don’t heat, check the fuse linked to the heated grip circuit.
- Ride for a short distance while testing the grips in different temperature settings.
- Adjust the heat level if necessary, based on your comfort.
- Ensure both grips heat evenly without hotspots.
By following these steps, you’ll confirm that both grips work properly. Enjoy your rides with the added comfort of heated grips, making cold weather rides far more enjoyable.
Conclusion
Installing heated grips on your Harley Davidson can transform your riding experience during chilly weather. With the right tools and a bit of patience you can enjoy those long rides without the discomfort of cold hands.
Make sure to follow each step carefully for a successful installation. Once you’re done don’t forget to test them out to ensure everything’s working perfectly.
Riding in comfort is what it’s all about so get those heated grips installed and hit the road with confidence. Enjoy your rides no matter the temperature!
Frequently Asked Questions
What tools do I need to install heated grips on a Harley?
To install heated grips on a Harley, you will need a set of basic tools including a screwdriver, wrench, wire strippers, electrical tape, and possibly a heat gun for securing the grips. Having the right tools on hand ensures a smoother installation process.
How do I prepare my motorcycle before installing heated grips?
Before installing heated grips, ensure your motorcycle is on a stable surface and the battery is disconnected. Wearing protective gear is also essential to safeguard against any accidental injuries during the installation.
What are the steps for wiring heated grips?
To wire heated grips, first disconnect the battery and identify the wiring harness specific to your heated grips. Connect the grips according to the manufacturer’s instructions, ensuring all connections are secure to avoid electrical issues.
How do I prepare the handlebars for heated grips?
To prepare the handlebars, clean the surface thoroughly to remove any dirt or old adhesive. Align the grips properly for comfort before securing them with glue or tape according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
How can I test the heated grips after installation?
To test the heated grips, reconnect the battery and power on the system. Make sure both grips heat evenly by riding under different temperature settings and checking for any hotspots to ensure they function correctly.
