The 2007-2009 Sportsters have the ECM module mounted on the rear fender. This does not lend itself to a clean solo seat option. Seat styles for these year bikes have a “hump” in them to allow for a compartment to hide the module. I have been looking for a way to move the ECM to allow for a cleaner style solo seat. I found this method on a forum and thought I would write an article showing the steps required. For the record this is not my original idea. I am merely passing on the information to whoever may find it of use.
The first step is the removal of the battery tray. There are four bolts holding the battery tray in place and one for the brake line clamp. The three ¼” allen head bolts are easily removed with a ¼” ball ended allen T-wrench. The torx head requires a 40 torx socket.
In addition to removing the bolts the turn signal module needs to be removed. It is mounted on the bottom of the tray and is removed by pushing up and unclipping the connection.
Once the tray is removed the side with the plastic battery strap needs to be cut off. This is the side by the oil tank. Removing this edge allow for the battery to be pushed in 3/8 inch. The battery tray is remounted after removing the edge and strap. The battery is then installed. I placed Velcro between the oil tank and battery to hold the battery in.
The next step is cutting off one of the four mounting holes on the ECM module. This allows clearance for the side cover. The mounting hole cut off is not used for the stock installation. Therefore it does not affect the module mount should it be desired to go back to stock at a later date. The module lead is run under the frame and above the battery. The module is Velcroed to the side of the battery.
I removed the cover of the master fuse in order to allow it to fit under the cover. There are probably better ways to deal with this issue.
The side cover is then installed and should fit with the stock cover clips. The front clip may be replaced with a tie-wrap for security.
The installation is simple and allows for the ECM to be placed under the side cover. The modification to the stock bike parts is minimal. The installation can be done in about an hour. The mounting of the ECM is secure and weatherproof. The moving of the ECM allows for a clean solo seat to be installed without interference.
The rear fender can be replaced with either a 2004-06 year fender to eliminate the ECM hole or the current fender can be reworked.
