HARLEY-DAVIDSON V-Rod Muscle User Manual

Maintenance and Lubrication

Safe Operating Maintenance

Perform the service and maintenance operations as indicated in the regular service interval table. Lack of regular maintenance at the recommended intervals can affect the safe operation of your motorcycle, which could result in death or serious injury. (00010a)

Good maintenance leads to a safe operating machine. A careful check of certain equipment must be made after periods of storage and frequently between the regular service intervals to determine if additional maintenance is necessary.

Check the following items:

1. Tires for correct pressure, excessive wear or any signs of tire damage.

2. Drive belt for proper tension.

3. Brakes, steering and throttle for responsiveness.

4. Brake fluid level and condition. Hydraulic lines and fittings for leaks. Also, check brake pads and discs for wear.

5. Throttle cables for fraying or crimping and free operation.

6. Engine oil level.

7. Engine coolant level.

8. Clutch fluid level.

9. Headlamp, tail lamp, brake lamp and directional lamp operation.

Break-in Maintenance

NOTE:

The performance of new motorcycle initial service is required to keep your new motorcycle warranty in force and for proper emissions system operation.

After a new motorcycle has been ridden its first 1000 mi 1600 km , it should be taken to an authorized HarleyDavidson dealer for initial service operations. Refer to Regular Service Intervals: 2012 VRSC Models.

Engine Lubrication

Prolonged or repeated contact with used motor oil may be harmful to skin and could cause skin cancer. Promptly wash affected areas with soap and water. (00358b)

If swallowed, do not induce vomiting. Contact a physician immediately. In case of contact with eyes, immediately flush with water. Contact a physician if irritation persists. (00357c)

Do not switch lubricant brands indiscriminately because some lubricants interact chemically when mixed. Use of inferior lubricants can damage the engine. (00184a)

Engine oil is a major factor in the performance and service life of the engine. Always use the proper grade of oil for the lowest temperature expected before the next scheduled oil change. Your authorized dealer has the proper oil to suit your requirements. Refer to Recommended Engine Oils.

This motorcycle was originally equipped with Genuine H-D 360 Multi-Grade 20W50 engine oil, and is the preferred oil under normal operating conditions. If operation under extreme cold or heat are expected, refer to Recommended Engine Oils for alternative choices.

If it is necessary to add oil and Harley-Davidson oil is not available, use an oil certified for diesel engines. Acceptable diesel engine oil designations include: SH, CH-4, CI-4 and CJ-4.

The preferred viscosities for the diesel engine oils in descending order are: 20W50, 15W40 and 10W40.

At the first opportunity, see an authorized dealer to change back to 100 percent Harley-Davidson oil.

Recommended Engine Oils

TYPE VISCOSITY RATING LOWEST AMBIENT

TEMPERATURE

COLD WEATHER STARTS BELOW

50 °F 10 °C

Screamin' Eagle SYN3 Synthetic Motorcycle Lubricant

SAE 20W50

HD 360 Above 40 °F 4 °C Excellent

Screamin' Eagle Synthetic Blend Motorcycle Lubricant

SAE 20W50

HD 360 Above 40 °F 4 °C Good

Genuine H-D 360 Multi-grade SAE

20W50

HD 360 Above 40 °F 4 °C Good

Multi-grade (oil certified for use in diesel engines)

SAE 10W40

SH, CH4,

CI-4, CJ4

Below 40 °F 4 °C Excellent

Checking Oil Level

NOTE:

This engine has a wet sump, an integral transmission, gear driven primary drive and wet clutch. This design allows engine oil in the sump to be used to lubricate the engine, transmission and primary drive. The clutch and primary drive are housed on the right side of the engine.

Oil level cannot be accurately measured on a cold engine. For pre-ride inspection with the motorcycle upright (not leaning on jiffy stand) on level ground, the oil should register approximately at the midpoint of the cross-hatch area on the dipstick when the engine is cold. Do not add oil to bring the level to the full mark on a cold engine. (00186b)

Check engine oil level at each complete fuel refill. See Dipstick Location: VRSCF Model (VRSCF) and Dipstick Location: VRSCDX/VRSCDX ANV (other models). On VRSCF model, the dipstick is located on the right side in the

clutch cover. On other models, the dipstick is located on left side at front of engine.

Cold Engine Oil Level Check

Check the oil level with the engine COLD as follows:

1. Stand the motorcycle upright (not leaning on the jiffy stand) on a level surface.

2. See Dipstick Location: VRSCDX/VRSCDX ANV. Unscrew the oil filler cap (with attached dipstick) by turning the filler cap counterclockwise. Remove the filler cap and dipstick and wipe the dipstick clean.

3. Screw the filler cap into the engine. Make sure the cap is fully seated on the crankcase.

4. See Engine Oil Level: VRSC Models. Remove the filler cap again and check the oil level on the dipstick.

5. If the oil level is below the midpoint of the cross-hatch area on the dipstick, add enough Harley-Davidson oil to bring the level up to the midpoint of the cross-hatch area shown.

Do NOT operate the engine when the oil level is below the add mark on the dipstick at operating temperature. Engine damage could result. (00493b)

To avoid over-filling the oil sump, wait approximately three minutes after adding oil before checking the oil level with the dipstick. An over-filled sump can cause engine damage. (00188a)

Dipstick Location: VRSCF Model

Dipstick Location: VRSCDX/VRSCDX ANV

1. Full mark

2. Add mark. Do NOT operate the engine when the oil level is below the add mark at operating temperature.

Engine Oil Level: VRSC Models

Hot Engine Oil Level Check

Check the oil level with the engine at normal operating temperature as follows:

1. Stop the engine and allow the oil to drain into the sump for about two minutes.

2. Stand the motorcycle upright (not leaning on the jiffy stand) on a level surface.

3. See Dipstick Location: VRSCDX/VRSCDX ANV. Unscrew the oil filler cap (with attached dipstick) by turning the filler cap counterclockwise. Remove the filler cap and dipstick and wipe the dipstick clean.

4. Screw the filler cap into the engine. Make sure the cap is fully seated on the crankcase.

5. See Engine Oil Level: VRSC Models. Remove the filler cap again and check the oil level on the dipstick.

6. If the oil level is below the FULL mark on the dipstick, add enough Harley-Davidson oil to bring the level up to the FULL mark shown in Engine Oil Level: VRSC Models.

NOTE:

The engine will require a longer warm-up period in colder weather.

Do not allow hot oil level to fall below Add/Fill mark on dipstick. Doing so can result in equipment damage and/or equipment malfunction. (00189a)

Do not overfill oil sump. Doing so can result in oil carryover to the air cleaner leading to equipment damage and/or equipment malfunction. (00191a)

Check the engine oil supply at each complete fuel refill. Refer to Regular Service Intervals: 2012 VRSC Models. The oil should be changed according to the Regular Service Intervals in the Maintenance Schedule in normal service at warm or moderate temperatures. Oil change intervals should be shorter in cold weather. See Winter Lubrication. The oil ADD mark is 1/2 quart (0.473 liters) to full.

Refer to the vehicle's service manual or see a Harley-Davidson dealer for proper procedures on draining the oil.

NOTE:

Dispose of oil in accordance with local regulations.

Changing Oil and Oil Filter

See Applying Thin Oil Film. The oil filter is located on an oil filter mount in front of the engine.

Be sure that no lubricants or fluids get on tires, wheels or brakes when changing fluid. Traction can be adversely affected, which could result in loss of control of the motorcycle and death or serious injury. (00047d)

Do not switch lubricant brands indiscriminately because some lubricants interact chemically when mixed. Use of inferior lubricants can damage the engine. (00184a)

VRSC vehicles require a premium oil filter (Part No. 63793-01K).

1. See Oil Drain Plug: VRSC Model. Loosen the oil drain plug and completely drain the oil.

2. Remove the oil filter using an OIL FILTER WRENCH HD-42311 .

NOTES:

Removal of lower radiator support may make oil filter access easier. Dispose of oil and oil filter in accordance with local regulations.

3. Clean the filter gasket contact surface on the mounting plate (the surface should be smooth and free of any debris or old gasket material).

4. See Applying Thin Oil Film. Apply a thin film of oil to the gasket contact surface on the mounting plate, gasket and new oil filter.

5. Screw the filter onto the adapter until the gasket contacts the plate surface, then apply another 2/3-1 full turn.

6. See Oil Drain Plug: VRSC Model. Install the engine oil drain plug. Tighten the drain plug to 22-30 ft-lbs (3040 Nm).

7. Install lower radiator support if removed. Tighten fasteners to 15-19 ft-lbs 20-26 Nm .

8. Refer to Capacities. Fill the engine with the recommended amount of oil.

1. Thin film of oil ONLY

2. Oil filter

3. Mounting plate

Applying Thin Oil Film

Oil Drain Plug: VRSC Model

Winter Lubrication

In colder climates, the engine oil should be changed often. If motorcycle is frequently used for trips less than 15 mi 24 km , in ambient temperatures below 60 °F 16 °C , reduce oil change intervals to 1500 mi 2400 km .

NOTE:

The further below freezing the temperature drops, the shorter the oil change interval should be.

Water vapor is a normal by-product of combustion in any engine. During cold weather operation, some of the water vapor condenses to liquid form on the cool metal surfaces inside the engine. In freezing weather this water will become slush or ice and, if allowed to accumulate too long, may block the oil lines and cause damage to the engine.

If the engine is run frequently and allowed to thoroughly warm up, most of this water will become vapor again and will be blown out through the crankcase breather.

If the engine is not run frequently and allowed to thoroughly warm up, this water will accumulate, mix with the engine oil and form a sludge that is harmful to the engine.

Coolant Level

GENUINE HARLEY-DAVIDSON EXTENDED LIFE ANTIFREEZE & COOLANT (Part No. 99822-02) provides protection to -34° F -36.7° C . In climates where the temperature falls below -34° F -36.7° C , consult a local Harley-Davidson dealer for the proper mixture.

Use only Genuine Harley-Davidson Extended Life Antifreeze and Coolant. Use of other coolants/mixtures may lead to engine damage. (00179b)

If you find yourself in a location where Genuine Harley-Davidson Extended Life Antifreeze & Coolant is not available, you may use a 50-50 mixture of de-ionized water and Ethylene Glycol-based Antifreeze.

De-ionized water must be used with the antifreeze in the cooling system. Hard water can cause scale accumulation in water passages which reduces cooling system efficiency, leading to overheating and engine damage. (00195a)

Checking Coolant Level in Expansion Tank

1. Open the seat.

2. On VRSCF model, remove front side covers. See Front Side Covers: VRSCF Model.

3. See Airbox Cover. Remove the airbox cover by turning the bailhead fastener 1/4 turn counterclockwise. Pull the airbox cover away from the front locating holes.

Do not remove radiator filler cap when engine is hot. The cooling system is under pressure and hot coolant and steam can escape, which could cause severe burns. Allow engine to cool before servicing the cooling system. (00091a)

At operating temperature, the radiator and oil cooler contain hot fluids. Contact with the radiator or oil cooler can result in minor or moderate burns. (00141a)

4. See Coolant Expansion Tank: VRSC Models. Check coolant level in expansion tank with coolant cold and motorcycle on jiffy stand.

Coolant mixture contains toxic chemicals, which may be fatal if swallowed. If swallowed, do not induce vomiting; call a physician immediately. Use in a well ventilated area. Irritation to skin or eyes can occur from vapors or direct contact. In case of skin or eye contact, flush thoroughly with water and go to hospital, if necessary. Dispose of used coolant according to federal, state and local regulations. (00092a)

5. If level is below "COLD FULL" line on tank, remove cap from expansion tank by using pull tab and add Harley-Davidson Extended Life Antifreeze & Coolant until fluid level reaches the "COLD FULL" line.

NOTE:

Genuine Harley-Davidson Extended Life Antifreeze & Coolant is pre-diluted and ready to use full-strength. Do NOT add water.

6. Replace the cap on the expansion tank.

7. Install the airbox cover. Secure the cover by turning the bailhead fastener 1/4 turn clockwise.

8. On VRSCF model, install front side covers. See Front Side Covers: VRSCF Model.

NOTE:

If the coolant expansion tank is empty when the engine is cold, it is possible that air has been drawn into the cooling system. The system must be purged of any trapped air and refilled with coolant. See the VRSC service manual for instructions on the correct procedure.

Clean the inlet surface of the radiator regularly. Leaves and other debris can collect on the radiator surface and degrade radiator performance which could lead to engine overheating and engine damage. (00197c)

1. Airbox cover

2. Bailhead fastener

Airbox Cover

1. Cold full line

2. Expansion tank cap

Coolant Expansion Tank: VRSC Models

Drive Belt

The inner tooth surface of the secondary belt has a thin coating of polyethylene lubricant. During initial operation, this coating will wear off as it is burnished into the belt fabric. This is a normal condition and not an indication of belt wear.

Refer to Regular Service Intervals: 2012 VRSC Models. Belt tension is set at the factory and should be checked after the first 1000 miles 1600 kilometers and at regular intervals thereafter.

NOTE:

See Belt Deflection Window: VRSC Models. Belt deflection window on the debris deflector is graduated in 2.0 mm increments.

See Check Belt Deflection: VRSC Models. Check belt tension with motorcycle cold, standing upright, transmission in neutral and no rider on the motorcycle. Use the BELT TENSION GAUGE HD-35381 to apply 10 lbs. 4.5 kg of force at the midpoint of the bottom belt strand.

Belt deflection should be within specification as shown in Belt Deflection. If belt tension adjustment is necessary, see a Harley-Davidson dealer or follow the instructions given in the applicable Service Manual.

Check rear brake caliper position on rear brake disc. Disc should run true within brake caliper.

Be sure wheel and brake caliper are aligned. Riding with a misaligned wheel or brake caliper can cause the brake disc to bind and lead to loss of control, which could result in death or serious injury. (00050a)

Belt Deflection

MODELS IN MM

All Models 15/64-13/32 6.0-10.0

1. Transmission sprocket

2. Rear wheel sprocket

3. Force of 10 lbs (4.5 kg)

4. Belt deflection

Check Belt Deflection: VRSC Models

1. Rear drive belt

2. Deflection graduations in 2.0 mm increments

Belt Deflection Window: VRSC Models

Chassis Lubrication

Refer to Regular Service Intervals: 2012 VRSC Models for all maintenance schedules.

NOTE:

Use recommended SPECIAL PURPOSE GREASE for steering head bearings. Use a multipurpose chassis grease for other applications.

1. Remove and lubricate handlebar throttle control grip sleeve with fresh graphite.

2. Lubricate throttle control cables and clutch control cable with HARLEY LUBE.

3. Lubricate front brake hand lever and clutch control hand lever only if necessary.

4. Inspect rear fork pivot shaft bearings.

5. Pack the steering head bearings with SPECIAL PURPOSE GREASE at recommended service intervals.

6. Lubricate the jiffy stand mechanism with SILVER GRADE ANTI-SEIZE.

NOTE:

For model specific information regarding the chassis lubrication, refer to the appropriate Service Manual or see a Harley-Davidson dealer.

Oil Applications

Refer to Regular Service Intervals: 2012 VRSC Models for all control connections and parts. Vehicle should be oiled at regular intervals, particularly after washing motorcycle or driving in wet weather.

Front Fork Oil

Refer to Regular Service Intervals: 2012 VRSC Models. Have a Harley-Davidson dealer drain the front fork oil and refill at proper intervals. If fork does not appear to be working properly or an appreciable amount of oil leakage should develop, see a Harley-Davidson dealer. If there is insufficient oil in either side of fork, the rebound action will be incorrect.

Fuel Filter

A fuel filter is attached to the fuel pump. See a service manual or Harley-Davidson dealer for fuel filter maintenance.

Hydraulic Clutch

Squeezing the left hand lever causes the clutch master cylinder to actuate and apply pressure to the clutch actuation cylinder mounted in the engine right side cover. The actuation cylinder piston extends and contacts the clutch release bearing to release the clutch.

Clutch fluid level should be checked periodically. Refer to Regular Service Intervals: 2012 VRSC Models. Check the fluid level as follows:

1. Stand the motorcycle upright (not leaning on the jiffy stand) on a level surface, and turn handlebar so the top of the clutch master cylinder is level.

2. See Clutch Reservoir Sight Glass. View reservoir sight glass and verify fluid level is at or above the Min line. If fluid level is low, proceed to next step.

D.O.T. 4 brake fluid will damage painted and body panel surfaces it comes in contact with. Always use caution and protect surfaces from spills whenever brake work is performed. Failure to comply can result in cosmetic damage. (00239b)

3. Clean all dirt and debris from the clutch master cylinder cover. Remove the two clutch master cylinder cover screws and remove the cover.

4. Verify the fluid level in the clutch master cylinder reservoir is at the FILL LEVEL mark at the top of the ledge on the rear inside wall of the reservoir. If the fluid level is low, add D.O.T. 4 HYDRAULIC BRAKE FLUID (Part No. 99953-99A) approved for clutch system use and available from a Harley-Davidson dealer.

NOTE:

Do not overfill the clutch master cylinder reservoir. As the clutch friction discs wear, the piston in the clutch cylinder will force fluid back into the reservoir which could cause fluid overflow. If clutch fluid level is over full, the clutch can be damaged.

D.O.T. 4 hydraulic brake fluid is used in the hydraulic clutch. Do not use other types of fluids as they are not compatible and could cause equipment damage. (00353a)

Do not allow dirt or debris to enter the master cylinder reservoir. Dirt or debris in the reservoir can cause improper operation and equipment damage. (00205c)

Direct contact of D.O.T. 4 brake fluid with eyes can cause irritation. Avoid eye contact. In case of eye contact flush with large amounts of water and get medical attention. Swallowing large amounts of D.O.T. 4 brake fluid can cause digestive discomfort. If swallowed, obtain medical attention. Use in well ventilated area. KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN. (00240a)

5. Inspect the clutch master cylinder cover gasket for rips, cuts, cracks, or other signs of damage. Replace the gasket if necessary. Carefully place the cover and cover gasket on the master cylinder reservoir and secure with the two cover screws. Tighten the screws to 6-8 in-lbs (0.7-0.9 Nm).

NOTE:

If the fluid level in the clutch master cylinder reservoir is correct but the clutch does not operate properly, refer to the service manual or see a Harley-Davidson dealer for service.

Clutch Reservoir Sight Glass

Steering Head Bearings

Adjustments to steering head bearings should be performed by a Harley-Davidson dealer. Improperly adjusted bearings can adversely affect handling and stability, which could result in death or serious injury. (00051b)

Check for proper steering head bearing adjustment and lubricate bearings using SPECIAL PURPOSE GREASE at proper intervals. Refer to Regular Service Intervals: 2012 VRSC Models Service Intervals.

With motorcycle front end raised off the floor, be sure front fork turns freely without any binding or interference and that there is no appreciable front to rear fork shake indicating excessive bearing looseness. Steering head bearings should be adjusted according to service manual procedure, if necessary.

Brakes

Brake Fluid

Do not allow dirt or debris to enter the master cylinder reservoir. Dirt or debris in the reservoir can cause improper operation and equipment damage. (00205c)

Clean filler cap before removing. Use only D.O.T. 4 brake fluid from a sealed container. Contaminated fluid can adversely affect braking, which could result in death or serious injury. (00504c)

1. Stand the motorcycle upright (not leaning on the jiffy stand) on a level surface, and turn handlebar so the top of the brake master cylinder is level.

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