Air Cleaner Upgrade Install

An air cleaner upgrade is the most popular and cost-effective Stage 1 modification on any Harley-Davidson. The factory snorkel-style air cleaner restricts airflow at high demand — exactly when you want the engine breathing freely. A high-flow unit improves throttle response, adds 5–8 hp, and gives your Harley a more aggressive intake sound. Installation is straightforward, but the tuning that must follow is equally important.

What's Included

• Stock air cleaner and backing plate removal
• New aftermarket air cleaner and backing plate installed
• Breather hose re-route to new backing plate (important for correct crankcase ventilation)
• All mounting hardware torqued correctly
• Tuning consultation: what's required for your specific bike and modification level

Popular Air Cleaner Options

Screamin' Eagle Heavy Breather: Harley's own Stage 1 unit. Works directly with their ECM downloads. Clean look that suits most bikes.

S&S Stealth: Round profile, excellent flow, multiple finish options. A classic look that suits any Harley.

Arlen Ness Big Sucker: Large finned design with top-tier flow numbers. Bold appearance, popular on Softails and Tourers.

Tuning After Installation

On EFI Harleys, a Stage 1 fuel map update is required with a new air cleaner. On carbureted bikes, a main jet increase and needle clip adjustment is needed. We won't install an air cleaner without discussing the tuning requirements — running lean damages your engine.