There’s nothing quite like the thrill of riding a Harley Davidson motorcycle, especially when accompanied by a tour pack on long-distance trips. Unfortunately, while they are resilient pieces of equipment, tour pack latches can break or become damaged over time – making it difficult to secure your belongings safely. In this article we share practical advice and tips from experienced riders to perform a Harley Tour Pack latch repair quickly and effectively.
Identifying the Problem
To start with, it is imperative to precisely identify the issue. Make sure that it’s specifically the tour pack latch or its upper portion which has broken, not any other part such as a hinge. In some cases, the plastic or fiberglass may break resulting in the latch being pulled and broken causing the need for a Harley Tour Pack latch repair. These are our following solutions:
Epoxy Repair
An efficient means to mend a damaged tour pack latch is by utilizing epoxy. Start off with cleaning the region, mixing your epoxy, and applying some drops on its fractured parts. Move the latch up and down for proper mixage of the epoxy before allowing it to set overnight which will yield a strong bond. It should be noted that although this may not be an everlasting fix as there’s potential for breakage after extended use.
Fiberglass Repair
An effective solution for restoring a broken tour pack latch is to utilize fiberglass accompanied by cloth on the inner side. This strategy will produce stronger adhesions than epoxy alone, especially when dealing with splits in the surrounding fiberglass near the hinge. By sanding and painting after mending, you can make it almost impossible to detect any repair was done at all.
Gorilla Hair Repair
If your tour pack latch is damaged, Gorilla Hair – a bondo/fiberglass mix – can be applied to the area in order to repair it. After filling and sanding down the area, consider applying fresh paint with premium latches for added reinforcement. Although this method may seem like an attractive option at first glance, you may find that having a second-hand lid repainted is much simpler overall.
Reinforcing with Metal
For a more permanent Harley Tour Pack latch repair, take an inch away from the inside of the tour pack lid on both sides. Grind half way through the fiberglass and insert a piece of metal. On top, apply epoxy to ensure it stays in place. Lastly, install new latches on the outside for added reinforcement – this will conceal any signs of damage.
Replacement Latches and Hinges
Revamp your latches and hinges with more reliable options such as the billet-style hinges from Harley Davidson (90649-07) or top notch tour pack latches. These upgrades will provide superior support and reduce future crises down the line.
Maintenance and Lubrication
Acknowledge the importance of lubricating your latches and hinges with a specialized product like Dri-Slide, using a needle applicator to ensure proper coverage. In addition to this crucial step, you should also take care in servicing your bike often – regular maintenance can go a long way in safeguarding against broken parts or other issues that may arise from lack of maintenance.
Exploring Harley Davidson Replacement Hinges
Instilling strength, safety, and style to your Harley Tour Pack latch repair is a piece of cake with Harley Davidson’s durable collection of hinges and latches. Easily mount them onto your tour pack for added support that will ensure it remains secure as you explore the world. With these high-quality components installed on your tour pack, not only will its appearance be enhanced but damage can also be prevented – ensuring long lasting reliability even through the toughest terrains.
Billet-Style Hinges
When looking for an upgrade to your hinges, consider billet-style as the superior option. These durable and strong hinges are crafted from a single block of aluminum and give off a smooth aesthetic. Not only will they ensure your tour pack is secure, but you’ll enjoy its enhanced look too.
Heavy-Duty Hinges
If you’re looking for an upgrade that can take the strain of carrying a heavy tour pack, then Harley Davidson’s heavy-duty hinges are just what you need. These superior metal hinges are designed to handle more weight and stress than standard models, ensuring your latch area stays safe from wear and tear damage due to excessive packing. So if you plan on doing lots of travel with a fully loaded tour pack, these rugged hinges should be at the top of your list.
Matching Hinges and Latches
Enhancing your hinges is a great idea, and why not take it one step further by pairing them with the perfect latches? Harley Davidson has an extensive selection of latches to match any set of hinges you choose. With chrome or black finishes available, you can guarantee that your motorcycle’s overall look will be perfectly polished. By combining complementaryhinges and latches, nothing but aesthetic perfection awaits.
Installation Tips and Tricks
Before you start the Harley Tour Pack latch repair process, make sure to gather all of the necessary tools and equipment for changing or replacing latches. Some rivets may require a special tool for installation so be aware of this when purchasing materials. If possible, it is recommended that you upgrade to heavy-duty hinges as they will provide enhanced durability in the long run.
The Verdict On A Harley Tour Pack Latch Repair
Mending a Harley tour pack latch might seem daunting, but with the proper instructions and components, you can have your tour pack functioning in no time. If you decide to use epoxy, fiberglass or Gorilla Hair for reinforcement – ensure that all safety protocols are followed closely and contact an expert if necessary. Furthermore, regular maintenance on latches and hinges will help avoid issues from occurring again in the future.
Seeking out higher quality components to replace your Harley Davidson tour pack hinges and latches offers you a multitude of benefits for both the functionality and aesthetic of your motorcycle. By investing in billet-style or heavy-duty hinges, not only will you be able to guarantee that your belongings are always secure while on the road, but you can also enhance its durability – making it look like new.
FAQs
Below are some Frequently Asked Questions on Harley Tour Pack latch repair:
What causes a Harley tour pack latch to break or malfunction?
Over time, the latch can become worn or weakened through regular use; if the lid is overloaded, it can be broken under pressure. In addition, an accident such as a motorcycle falling could cause lasting damage to the latch.
Can I perform a Harley Tour Pack latch repair myself, or should I take it to a professional?
As it is possible to do a Harley Tour Pack latch repair with epoxy, fiberglass or metal reinforcement yourself, having the right tools and know-how is essential. If any element of this DIY process feels too challenging for you, seek professional help. To ensure that your repairs are up to standard and secure in the long run, entrusting an expert may be your most prudent option.
How long does a typical Harley Tour Pack latch repair, such as using epoxy or fiberglass, last?
The longevity of a Harley Tour Pack latch repair is reliant on multiple factors, such as the superiority of the supplies utilized and the expertise of whoever does it. Epoxy repairs have been known to last over 12 months, whereas more durable solutions like metal or fiberglass reinforcement can significantly prolong its serviceability.
Are there any upgrades available for Harley tour pack latches and hinges?
If you want to add more support and longevity to your Harley Davidson, consider investing in premium tour pack latches and billet style or heavy duty hinges. Not only will they mitigate the possibility of any future damage, but also enhance its aesthetic appeal significantly.
How often should I lubricate my tour pack latches and hinges?
Prolong the life of your motorcycle’s latches, hinges, saddlebag latch springs, and footboard pivot points by regularly lubricating them during servicing. Not only does it reduce friction and wear-and-tear but also helps maintain superior performance over time.
Can I replace the hinges and latches with aftermarket options?
When you’re looking for the best hinges and latches, Harley Davidson can meet your needs with their high-quality replacements. If you decide to go the aftermarket route, make sure that whatever brand you select is trustworthy and compatible with your specific motorcycle model.
What tools do I need to repair or replace my tour pack latch and hinges?
To repair or replace a tour pack latch and hinges, one must be equipped with certain tools such as a drill for removing rivets, epoxy/fiberglass materials to fix the parts, sandpaper to smoothen surfaces and a specific rivet tool for installing various types of rivets. A Dremel may also come in handy when it comes to grinding and cutting the material.