Harley-Davidson Seat Mounting Bolts: How to Find the Right Replacement

The short answer. Match the bolt to the thread in the rear mounting nut, then check its length and what comes with it. If the nut spins or lifts out of the mudguard, check the retaining hardware before buying a new bolt.

A missing seat screw looks like an easy fix until the replacement binds after half a turn. Before ordering, take a look at the seat tab and the fitting it bolts into.

In this guide

• Check the thread before choosing a finish
• Work out which part is missing
• Check the fit of a quick-release knob

Check the thread before choosing a finish

You’ll see both 1/4-20 and 1/4-28 in Harley-Davidson seat hardware listings. Both are a quarter of an inch in diameter, but the threads have different pitches. If you have the old screw, use it to identify the thread. If the mudguard or mounting hardware has been changed, check the fitting on the bike before relying on a model-year listing.

Compare the length below the head as well. The bolt needs to clamp the seat tab without bottoming out. If it binds before the head reaches the tab, stop and check the thread and length.

Work out which part is missing

Look at the hole where the rear seat tab sits. Depending on the set-up, the screw may go into a captive nut held in place by a clip or retainer. If the screw and nut turn together, inspect the nut and its retainer. Check the listing to see whether you’re buying the screw alone or a kit with the mounting hardware.

Check the fit of a quick-release knob

A knurled knob is easier to grip if you remove the seat regularly. Check that you can get your fingers around it, especially if the seat curves down over the rear tab or there’s a rack just above it. After fitting, check that the seat’s locating points are engaged and that the seat is secure.

The Hogparts view

If you’re unsure which hardware to order, send us your bike’s model and year and a photo of the rear seat tab and its mounting point. Include the make of any aftermarket seat or mudguard.

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About Hogparts

Hogparts UK Ltd is an independent retailer of aftermarket motorcycle parts. We are not affiliated with, authorised by or endorsed by Harley-Davidson.