The installation of Corbin motorcycle seats, specifically models designed for 2009 Harley-Davidson Roadking and Streetglide motorcycles, requires specific tools and may present unique challenges due to the tighter tolerances of the Corbin Fibertech basepan. This article details the installation process, potential mounting issues, and troubleshooting steps based on available documentation. The documentation focuses on addressing fitment concerns and electrical connections for heated seats.
Seat Installation Overview
Installation begins with the removal of the stock seat. For models equipped with a seat heater, the process includes accessing the fuse box by removing the left side cover. Owners should consult their motorcycle’s owner’s manual for specific instructions on accessing the fuse box if needed. The Corbin seat installation procedure diverges depending on whether the seat is heated or non-heated.
Heated Seat Installation
Corbin saddles designed with integrated heating elements arrive prewired with a switch, heating elements, and a controller already installed on the saddle itself. The primary installation requirement for heated seats involves connecting an adapter pigtail to the motorcycle’s fuse box. This connection requires two steps: connecting the red wire to the accessory jack within the fuse box and connecting the black wire to a ground location on the battery.
The fuse box is located on the left side of the motorcycle, accessible after removing the side cover. To connect the pigtail, the existing Accessory fuse must be removed. This fuse is then inserted into an open slot on the provided fuse adapter. The adapter, with the fuse inserted, is then returned to the original accessory fuse slot in the fuse box. The documentation notes that slight bending of the adapter prongs may be necessary to ensure a secure fit. Specific part numbers referenced include HD-FLH-9-S, HD-FLH-9-50S, HD-FLH-9-5-TP, and HD-RK-9-S(E).
Non-Heated Seat Installation
For Corbin seats without integrated heating elements, the installation process is simplified, bypassing the electrical connection steps described above. Installation proceeds directly to mounting the seat onto the motorcycle.
Fibertech Basepan Considerations
Corbin seats utilize a Fibertech basepan designed for a tighter fit compared to the stock seat. This tighter tolerance enhances the aesthetic appearance but can make initial installation more challenging. Users may experience difficulty seating the saddle, requiring patience and potentially some force. The documentation suggests that the rubber bumpers on the underside of the seat will break in with use, simplifying subsequent installations.
Mounting Tongue and Rear Tab Alignment
The mounting process may differ from the stock seat installation. Corbin saddles may utilize different mounting points or require a slightly different approach to secure the seat to the motorcycle. Users are advised to review any included instruction sheets for specific details regarding their seat model.
If the seat features a metal mounting tongue, it is covered in leather to prevent rattling. This leather covering can initially increase resistance when sliding the seat into position. A firm “smack” with the hand directed forward or rearward may be necessary to fully seat the tongue into the bracket. In some cases, slight bending of the tongue with an adjustable wrench may improve the fit, but caution is advised to avoid excessive bending.
For saddles utilizing rear tabs, proper alignment is crucial. If the slotted hole in the tab does not align with the mounting point on the fender, the documentation recommends reviewing the tips regarding rubber bumpers, mounting tongues, and overall saddle position. If the rear tab almost aligns but the seat sits too high, bending the tab down is discouraged, as it may cause scratches to the motorcycle’s paint. Instead, the documentation advises re-checking the saddle’s forward position and the mounting tongue’s placement.
Latch Bracket Troubleshooting
Variations in motorcycle latch mechanisms and manufacturing tolerances can lead to latching difficulties. The documentation provides general guidance for addressing these issues. The first step is to verify the alignment of the striker over the latch catch. Misalignment can prevent the latch from engaging. Minor adjustments to the saddle’s forward or backward position may resolve the issue. Many Corbin bolt-on brackets incorporate tolerances to allow for these minor position adjustments.
Rubber Bumper Break-In Period
New rubber bumpers on the underside of the seat can contribute to latching problems. These bumpers initially provide enough resistance to prevent the latch from fully engaging. Applying firm pressure directly over the latch area may overcome this resistance and engage the lock. If this method fails, adding flat washers as shims between the latch and seat pan can provide additional reach for the latch. These shims can be removed once the rubber bumpers have broken in with use.
Conclusion
Installing a Corbin motorcycle seat requires attention to detail and an understanding of potential fitment challenges. The Fibertech basepan’s tighter tolerances, coupled with variations in motorcycle manufacturing, may necessitate adjustments to the mounting tongue, rear tab, or latch bracket. Proper electrical connection is essential for heated seat models. Patience and careful adherence to the provided guidance will ensure a secure and aesthetically pleasing installation.