Cleaning & Detailing
Cleaning the Engine
Twin Cam, Evo, or M8 — always do it cold.
Harley-validated
Steps
- Cold engine, ignition off
- Plastic bag over alternator and sensors
- Degreaser (Simple Green or specific)
- Soft brush between the fins
- Gentle rinse, no direct high pressure
- Compressed air to dry
Safety & cautions
- Engine ALWAYS cold before any liquid product
- No pressure-washing on bearings, wiring, or seat
- Bag the exhaust tips and plugs
Average US cost (USD)
- Starter detail kit: $80-150 (shampoo, wax, chrome, microfibers)
- Full pro detail: $200-450
- Mothers Mag chrome polish: $12
- Black Wow matte wax: $25
When to see a mechanic
- Deep pitting in chrome means re-chroming ($300+/piece)
- Cracked leather past saving — seat replacement
Quick questions
Can I wash it hot?
NO. Thermal shock cracks paint, heads, and warps rotors.
Does WD-40 clean the engine?
It cleans but attracts dust between fins. Use a degreaser like S100 or Bel-Ray.
Where to dig deeper
- S100 Total Cycle Cleaner
- Meguiar's Motorcycle line
- Chemical Guys Moto kit