This is kinda hard to explain so, I've included some photos which will hopefully clarify what is happening. Essentially, the front pannier locking mechanism (top of where the lid part hooks under) is digging into my seat on both sides. As a result, there is a largish tear on the LHS & there is a small tear developing on the RHS. Obviously I can get the seat repaired, no biggy there but, unless I can do something about the pannier locking mechanisms, the tears will just return in fairly short order. I've tried to adjust where the pannier sits but, not had much luck. They won't sit down any lower due to the rubber supports under the pannier & I don't seem to be able to move them backwards away from the seat. However, maybe I'm missing something & just don't know what can or can't be adjusted so as to move the locking mechanisms away from the seat. If anyone can offer some advice on either moving the panniers down/backwards or, a method to cover the locking mechanism or, anything at all that might prevent further damage to the seat I would be most grateful.

I can feel for you . I got a new Switchback and when I shut the lid it hits the paint on the guard . I have to be extra careful so I don't touch the paint . I put some clear contact on the guard on both sides .
I asked the dealer where I got it from ( Brand new of course ) and they said they would ask the rep !! No go with that . I said how about some spacers to clear it and virtually was told yep go and do that .
Maybe if you can put 25ml spacers at the points where the brackets bolt on might help you . There is not much you can do other than that. You would think Harley Davidson Dealers would be onto this so that they could help the paying customers and put a feather in there own cap to boot . Hope this may help .
Crewman

Well, I took it to a local upholster; turns out the guy who owns the place has a Softail Deuce & has done heaps of work on MC seats...

Had a look at the problem, a little sculpting here, a little tuck there & hey presto all the tears are fixed & there is now clearance between the seat and the pannier locks.. Not only is the seat repaired & without having to use any new vinyl pieces (would have looked odd) but, the problem should not recur...

$100 for labour for a 2 hour job & the result is fantastic.

Great outcome   .