Unfortunately, I joined the club...broken fairing bracket

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Prasanth Genius

New member
Broken fairing mount. [:@][:@][:@][:@] I had a rattle on the left (clutch) side and figured it was a broken mount, based on what I have read here. I was hoping that something was just loose, but I wasn't that lucky.

How big a job is it to replace? It looks like the bracket mounts low with the screw/bolt that holds the spots on. The top bolts are easy. Any advice while I call around and try to find a new one? I'll look in the service manual also, just looking for some tips from those who have already done this.

Thanks



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After I read a post on this problem I took a lesson learned from my sheet-metal training (30+ yrs ago) and drilled a hole 1/8" in each bracket right at the corner were the three right angles come together. If it works I should help reduce and or disperse the stress riser created by the factory cut and bends at that point. I've checked mine a couple of times since and so far so good. If you replace yours with stock brackets I'd suggest you do the same prior to installing them. There were links posted in previous threads on this subject for billet or welded brackets from aftermarket sources too.

Good Luck,
FBL
 
Well, one dealer said it would take a week to 10 days to get a new bracket, the other one hasn't called me back yet. I think I will get this one welded. A new bracket runs about $47.

This is a PITA !!!!! If you have to do this, I'll give you a few tips. The spots have to come off, make sure you disconnect both electrical connectors. You can't get an allen wrench on the bolt behind the cigarette lighter plug. Use pliers, it's not that tight. When everything is loose and it seems like you can't get the bracket off, lift it up and out, pulling outward 'slightly' on the inner fairing. Oh, this is after you disconnect the clutch cable from the lever, it runs through the bracket. Here is what my bike looks like right now.

One more tip; if you aren't positive where everything will go when you take it apart, take pics with your digital camera as you go along. That way if you get lost you can refer back to them.


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Well, all together it took me 6 hours. That includes taking it apart, posting here, getting it welded at a shop, painting the bracket, installing it, then running down to the hardware store for a bolt that was missing. When I took the fairing off I noticed the lower right bolt was gone, the one that attaches to the fairing under the headlight. 1/4-20 x 1/2" allen bolt fits fine, if you don't want to run to the dealer for a torx head bolt. The stock bolt is actually about 5/8" long. I also polished up all of the chrome while it was apart and checked every bolt inside the fairing. Cleaned the fairing and ate lunch too! Amazing difference once it was back together, all the shaking and vibration was completely gone. If you aren't afraid to turn a wrench you can do this yourself instead of taking it to the dealer. It's kind of a PIA, but the satisfaction of knowing that you fixed it yourself is worth it!

The pics aren't that good but here is the repaired bracket back in place.

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simcom, I have the same question, I have had my fairing off a couple of times and have not noticed any problems with the bracket and I check them every time I remove it..
 
After reading many, many post on this issue, I have come to a couple conclusions...

HD doesn't want to upgrade the bracket. It is too easy for them to sell the, seemingly, inexpensive bracket at $40 each but then charge 200+ dollars for the mechanic to replace it. REALLY...go figure how many riders will actually tackle a job like this. No many, i bet...unless you are a reader of this forum.

I have figured out a way for a quick fix...well actually not a fix, but more preventative maintenance on the bracket. Here is the deal.[ol][*]Buy a corner bracket. Probably a 2 inch will work. The hardware store, walmart, home improvement store...take your pick...they all will have this item. (see pics)[*]Take this small 'L' shapped bracket and attack to the fairing bracket at the point where it attaches to the fairing at the spot where the fairing bracket is subject to break. Since the corner bracket is L shapped it will fit in the corner of the fairing bracket where it usually breaks.[*]You will need to drill out the corner bracket holes a bit, possibly even making a complete set of new holes.[*]Attach the corner bracket on the inner side of the fairing bracket.[*]Use the fairing bracket allen bolt to attach one side of the corner bracket[*]Drill a small home on the lower leg of the fairing bracket and put a small bolt...maybe a #8 or #6 screw...to hold the other side of the corner bracket[*]Now the corner bracket is held on by two spots and will help secure the fairing bracket.[/ol]Basically, you are doubling the corner of the fairing bracket.
You may find it easier to put the corner bracket on the outside edge of the fairing bracket. Either way it will work.
I will get some pics posted the next time I remove my fairing. This job should only take an hour or so...that's removing the fairing and all.


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