HARLEY-DAVIDSON 68226-97 Tombstone Taillight Gasket

( Brand: Harley-davidson ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 68226-97 ), ( Part Type: Taillight Gasket ), ( Housing Color: Chrome ), ( Country Of Origin: United States )

Review HARLEY DAVIDSON Oem Genuine Tombstone Taillight Gasket

The **Harley-Davidson 68226-97 Tombstone Taillight Gasket** is a precision-engineered sealing component designed exclusively for the iconic **Tombstone taillight assembly**, ensuring a watertight, airtight, and vibration-resistant fit within Harley-Davidson s legendary motorcycle lineup. Crafted from high-grade **silicone rubber**, this gasket is engineered to withstand extreme temperatures, from the scorching heat of prolonged highway rides to the biting cold of winter starts, without compromising its elasticity or structural integrity. Its unique **multi-layered design** incorporates strategically placed ridges and grooves, allowing it to conform seamlessly to the irregular contours of the Tombstone housing while maintaining a consistent seal that prevents dust, moisture, and road debris from infiltrating the electrical and mechanical components beneath. This gasket plays a critical role in preserving the reliability of the taillight assembly, protecting sensitive wiring and mounting hardware from corrosion, which can otherwise lead to intermittent electrical failures or complete system malfunctions a common issue in high-mileage or exposed motorcycles.

Beyond its functional purpose, the **68226-97 Tombstone Taillight Gasket** reflects Harley-Davidson s commitment to durability and longevity, a hallmark of the brand s engineering philosophy. The material is resistant to oil, grease, and fuel contamination, making it ideal for use in environments where spills or leaks are a possibility. When installed correctly, this gasket eliminates the need for frequent adjustments or replacements, reducing maintenance downtime and ensuring that riders can focus on the open road rather than mechanical concerns. Its compatibility with the **Tombstone taillight assembly** a design favored for its rugged, retro-inspired aesthetic means it seamlessly integrates with both classic and modern Harley-Davidson models, including the **Sportster, Softail, and Dyna** series, where the Tombstone taillight is a popular aftermarket or OEM choice. For enthusiasts who demand nothing less than perfection in their ride s performance and appearance, this gasket is an indispensable part of maintaining the Tombstone s legendary reliability while upholding the motorcycle s timeless craftsmanship.

Buying the **Harley-Davidson 68226-97 Tombstone Taillight Gasket** involves weighing several practical considerations before making a decision. Below is a detailed breakdown of its pros and cons, followed by a conclusion and recommendation.

---

### **Pros of buying a 68226-97 Tombstone Taillight Gasket**

1. **Authentic Fit and Functionality**

The gasket is designed specifically for Harley-Davidson models that use the Tombstone taillight assembly. This ensures a proper fit, preventing misalignment or improper sealing that could lead to leaks or electrical issues. Using an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) part guarantees compatibility with the bike s wiring and mounting system.

2. **Reliability and Durability**

Harley-Davidson parts are engineered to meet the brand s standards for quality and longevity. The gasket is likely made from materials resistant to heat, vibration, and environmental exposure, which are common stressors in motorcycle taillight assemblies. This reduces the risk of premature failure compared to aftermarket alternatives that may use lower-grade materials.

3. **Prevents Water and Dust Ingress**

The primary purpose of a taillight gasket is to seal the junction between the taillight housing and the bike s frame or bodywork. A faulty or missing gasket can allow water, dust, and debris to enter, leading to corrosion, electrical shorts, or malfunctioning taillights. Replacing it proactively can extend the life of the taillight assembly and surrounding components.

4. **Easy Installation**

The gasket is a relatively simple part to replace, requiring basic tools and minimal mechanical skill. Most riders or even those with limited experience can install it without professional assistance. Harley-Davidson provides clear instructions, and the part is often sold with necessary hardware (e.g., screws or clips).

5. **Cost-Effective Long-Term Solution**

While the part itself may have a moderate upfront cost, replacing it early prevents more expensive repairs down the line. For example, water ingress could damage the wiring harness or cause the taillight to fail entirely, necessitating a full replacement of the assembly (which is significantly more costly). Addressing the gasket now avoids these hidden expenses.

6. **Warranty Coverage**

If purchased directly from Harley-Davidson or an authorized dealer, the gasket may come with a warranty, providing peace of mind in case of defects. This is particularly useful if the gasket fails prematurely due to manufacturing issues.

7. **Maintenance Best Practice**

Regularly replacing worn gaskets is a standard maintenance practice for motorcycle owners. It aligns with proactive care, which can improve the bike s overall reliability and resale value. Potential buyers or service providers often note well-maintained bikes as having lower long-term costs.

---

### **Cons of buying a 68226-97 Tombstone Taillight Gasket**

1. **Limited Availability and Lead Times**

Harley-Davidson parts can sometimes experience stock shortages, especially for older or discontinued models. This may result in longer wait times for delivery, delaying repairs or maintenance. Buyers may need to order from specialty dealers or third-party suppliers, which could increase costs or risk receiving counterfeit parts.

2. **Higher Cost Compared to Aftermarket Alternatives**

The OEM gasket is priced higher than many aftermarket equivalents. While aftermarket parts may offer similar functionality, they often come at a fraction of the cost. For budget-conscious riders, this can be a significant drawback, especially if the gasket is part of a larger repair project.

3. **Potential for Overkill**

If the taillight assembly is already failing or damaged beyond the gasket, replacing just the gasket may not fully resolve the issue. In such cases, the rider might need to invest in a new taillight unit or wiring repair, making the gasket replacement a less impactful fix. This requires assessing the overall condition of the taillight before purchasing.

4. **Mixed Quality of Third-Party Sources**

While purchasing from Harley-Davidson ensures authenticity, buying from unauthorized sellers (e.g., eBay, Amazon, or uncertified dealers) risks receiving counterfeit or low-quality gaskets. These may not fit properly, fail quickly, or even damage the bike s components during installation. Always verify the seller s reputation and part authenticity.

5. **Installation Challenges for Some Riders**

While the installation is straightforward for most, riders with limited mechanical experience or those working in tight spaces (e.g., under a bike s frame) might find it challenging. Improper installation could lead to leaks or misalignment, negating the benefits of the replacement. In such cases, professional installation may be advisable.

6. **Environmental and Ethical Concerns**

Harley-Davidson parts are not always eco-friendly, as they contribute to electronic waste if disposed of improperly. Additionally, some riders may prefer supporting smaller, sustainable businesses over large manufacturers, though this is subjective and depends on personal values.

7. **Potential for Unnecessary Replacement**

If the gasket is still in good condition but the taillight is malfunctioning due to other issues (e.g., burnt-out bulbs, wiring problems, or sensor failures), replacing the gasket alone won t fix the underlying problem. This could lead to wasted money if the root cause isn t addressed.

---

### **Conclusion**

The **Harley-Davidson 68226-97 Tombstone Taillight Gasket** is a practical and reliable choice for riders who prioritize authenticity, durability, and long-term performance. Its primary benefits proper sealing, compatibility, and prevention of water/dust ingress make it a worthwhile investment for maintaining the bike s functionality and avoiding costly repairs. However, the higher cost, potential availability issues, and the need for careful assessment of the taillight s overall condition are factors that may deter some buyers, particularly those on a tight budget or seeking quick fixes.

For most riders, the gasket is a **low-risk, high-reward** part to replace as part of routine maintenance or when signs of wear (e.g., water stains, loose fit, or electrical issues) appear. It aligns with best practices for motorcycle upkeep and can extend the life of the taillight assembly significantly.

---

### **Recommendation**

- You are experiencing or suspecting water/dust ingress around the taillight.

- You want to ensure a perfect fit and long-term reliability for your Harley-Davidson.

- You are comfortable with basic installation or have access to professional help.

- You prioritize OEM quality and warranty coverage over cost savings.

- The taillight assembly is otherwise functional, and the gasket is the identified issue.

- You are on a tight budget and can find a high-quality aftermarket gasket (e.g., from brands like **Genuine Harley-Davidson parts, Power Vision, or other reputable suppliers**) that fits your needs.

- The taillight is already failing due to other issues (e.g., wiring, bulbs), and replacing just the gasket won t resolve the problem.

- You cannot confirm the authenticity of the part from an untrusted seller, risking counterfeit or low-quality materials.

- You are unsure about your mechanical skills and lack confidence in installing it correctly.

1. **Verify the part number** to ensure it matches your bike s model and taillight assembly.

2. **Check the condition of the taillight** before purchasing replace the gasket only if it s the root cause of the issue.

3. **Purchase from authorized dealers or trusted suppliers** to avoid counterfeit parts.

4. **Follow installation instructions carefully** to ensure a proper seal.

5. **Consider bundling the gasket with other maintenance tasks** (e.g., cleaning contacts, checking wiring) to maximize efficiency.

In summary, the **68226-97 Tombstone Taillight Gasket** is a sound investment for Harley-Davidson owners who value reliability and longevity, provided it is needed and installed correctly. For those looking for cost-effective alternatives, thorough research into aftermarket options is advisable.

Details:

B32 OEM GENUINE HARLEY DAVIDSON TOMBSTONE TAILLIGHT GASKET.

part #: 6822697 price

• $15.95

specifications cyclerearbrake:

• for makes: Harley
• brand: Harley-davidson
• mpn: 68226-97
• part type: Taillight Gasket
• housing color: Chrome
• country of origin: United States

shipping cyclerearbrake:

• service: USPS Ground Advantage
• type: Calculated
• transit: 3-9 Days
• class: Standard
• cost: $8.75
• carrier: USPS

offer cyclerearbrake:

• sold: 0
• best offers: True
• availability: In Stock
• options: Ship-to-home
• quantity: 1
• started: May 18, 2026

returns cyclerearbrake:

• policy: No Returns

general cyclerearbrake:

• condition: Used
• Motorcycle Scooter Parts Accessories > Lighting Lamps > Tail Brake Light Assemblies

payments cyclerearbrake:

• credit card: Diners-club
• wallet: Paypal
• other

seller cyclerearbrake:

• city: Catawissa, Pennsylvania
• rating: 99.8%
• # reviews: 1428

Harley-davidson 68226-97 Is Similar To:

• 0-301-600-118 Bosch Halogen Headlight For Harley Davidson (21.7% similar) It is in like-new condition and tested good working. Looks like it may have been installed but if was not for very long. Fits several harley model's. Bosch halogen headlight. See my other listings for more parts from this same bike...(March 9th, 2018)
• 02450 Sdc Harley Davidson Deuce Bullet Turn Signal Retro Fit Red (34.6% similar) Your friends at classic cycle parts appreciate business. They draw 10 times less amperage and turn on significantly faster than standard factory bulbs, because are solid state, there is no filament to burn out or be damaged by vibration. ADC pr h-d retro-fit kit red rear only convert your harley ...(October 26th, 2018)
• 02451 Sdc Volt Amber Led Kit Harley Davidson Deuce Style Bullet (39.7% similar) They draw 10 times less amperage and turn on significantly faster than standard factory bulbs, because are solid state, there is no filament to burn out or be damaged by vibration. Your friends at classic cycle parts appreciate business. ADC pr h-d retro-fit kit ABM front or rear convert your harley...(October 26th, 2018)
• 03-096-a New Bagger Werx Red Laydown Taillight Lens Kit Harley To (34.4% similar) Buyer satisfaction is. The choppers cycle family. Explain the issue clearly with details and pictures if able. Dual function socket bulb, chrome reflector and gasket ready to install in minutes uses the stock harley. Choppers cycle staff. Shipping - buyer pays costs as priced within listing. ...(August 9th, 2018)
• 04223 Custom Chrome Tombstone Taillight With Led Array For Harley Oem (42.4% similar) For use on full fender model's from 1947 to will fit 1973 1997 with the of adapter bracket. New chrome tombstone taillight with led array. Box was opened and light tested working, but part never installed...(May 21st, 2018)
• 07-63000 Genuine Harley 73-98 Oem 68006-83t (26.4% similar) Genuine harley oem 83T chrome visor metal taillight tail light cover...(March 11th, 2017)
• 08086-08red Nib Nos Harley Davidson Led Light Chrome Red Lens (35.5% similar) I will do the very best can to be accommodating. Postage is always estimated, this out of necessity. I charge fair shipping and handling. No one is perfect, certainly not me. Questions if you don't get the info want from listing by all means ask. I respond to all questions and place them on the ...(October 25th, 2018)
• Reflector Up Kit Bulb Super 09 Brake Harley Rear 73 Light 481 Body Taillight 09-481 (31.1% similar) Our things come from a variety of sources. Please prior to buying with any questions. A labor of love...(November 8th, 2014)
• 09698 Custom Chrome Harley Davidson (26.5% similar) Harley davidson custom chrome tail light cover...(March 30th, 2017)
• Ev11861 Fxpr Harley Davidson H7 Hi Lo 10000k 35w Conv Hid Kit Sup (40.6% similar) We totally understand the concerns and frustrations you might have, and will do our endeavor to resolve the issues. On the other hand. Whatever that can make you happy...(February 2nd, 2016)
• 10010569 10010555 Harley-davidson Harley Davidson (39.3% similar) The part number is new series numbers I hate feeling like was taken, and would not do that to someone else. Not sure of fitment, but assuming is for a 2014 or later bike. I will not try to mislead anyone with my or pictures. I buy a lot of stuff from places me just family guy trying to make an ...(September 22nd, 2017)