How to Remove a Radio From a Harley Fairing

by Jim Murkot Sr.

motorbike image by Byron Moore from Fotolia.com

Harley-Davidson radio systems are installed as a component of the fairing system. In order to remove the radio, the outer fairing must first be completely disconnected and placed aside, exposing the inner components of the fairing. The battery should also be disconnected to prevent shock or damage. This will require that the seat be removed. Overall length of time to complete the task should be between one and two hours. Work slowly and carefully around the outer fairing to avoid scratching or damaging the finish.

Removing the Seat

Step 1

Turn off the motorcycle ignition. Allow the motorcycle to cool down before proceeding.

Step 2

Remove the fastener on the top of the rear fender with a cross tip screwdriver.

Step 3

Push the seat toward the rear of the motorcycle to free the tongue underneath the seat from its slot within the frame.

Step 4

Lift the seat free from the bike and set it aside.

Step 5

Disconnect the negative cable from the battery with a 10 mm open-end wrench.

Removing the Outer Fairing

Step 1

Disconnect the seven fasteners that secure the outer fairing using a Torx drive head. The seven connectors are located on the outer windshield, the inner fairing near the speakers and underneath the inner fairing near the handlebar clamp.

Step 2

Tilt the fairing forward toward the front of the motorcycle. Squeeze and disconnect the wire connector attached to the headlight assembly.

Step 3

Lift the outer fairing out and away from the bike. Place this assembly in a safe, out-of-the-way location.

Removing the Radio

Step 1

Unplug the connectors attached to the radio from the motorcycle's wiring system. They are the black radio connector, the antenna cable connector, the gray radio connector and the CB antenna cable connector.