Softail Shock Adjustment

Ribs

Live Free & Ride Hard
IMG_20161201_161418840.jpg Hey Guys, Need Some Help

I realized the other day when i Jard my back, that i need to adjust the suspension on this baby.

I went and got the tool needed and jacked the bike up but not easy as i expected and looks a bit different then the video i found on the net.

I have added a pic so you know exactly what im dealing with.
When i use the adjustment tool the whole shock spins.

Help Please

Softest ride is what im looking for
Ribs
 
Last edited:

BWG56

Guru
One thing for sure is you want them adjusted evenly, how can the whole shock rotate when the body has one of the mounting ends. What does the tool look like?
 

Ribs

Live Free & Ride Hard
I bought the tool from Harley its a two prong thing.

ok so i unlock the lock nut then what ? you can see that in the pic.
i also started loosen the other nut which is closer to the shock and the whole thing spun.
 

Ribs

Live Free & Ride Hard
So i should undo the lock nut and unscrew the large nut backing upto the shock? then use the tool and unscrew the shock until it meets the nut?
i watched a video and he used the tool and the part that the tool goes into turned mine does not the whole dam thing turns.

I will mess with it and see what i can figure out, if anyone can help please do im all ears.
:)
 
Last edited:

USNChief

Active Member
You have a rod end (the part w/threads) and the shaft that is connected to the shock piston that has the hex nut machined in to it. The more you compress the shock, more threads exposed, the firmer the ride. Less threads exposed, softer ride. Little piston travel=hard, lots of travel=soft.
 

Ribs

Live Free & Ride Hard
You have a rod end (the part w/threads) and the shaft that is connected to the shock piston that has the hex nut machined in to it. The more you compress the shock, more threads exposed, the firmer the ride. Less threads exposed, softer ride. Little piston travel=hard, lots of travel=soft.
ok so i need to undo the nuts and make the shock longer. thanks.
i will go do that now and will come back.

Ribs
 

Ribs

Live Free & Ride Hard
Ok i adjusted OUT as much as it would go and i do feel more travel.
Thanks allot.:D

What other things could i do to make it a softer ride? I was thinking the seat could be better any idea's on a good comfortable seat.
I looked into the seats with springs and one even had shocks. not really interested in welding on my frame to install.
the Le Parea seat i have has not cushion at all.

What about different shocks? this bike only has 2500 miles on it. im sure the shocks are not bad but are there better ones on the market.??
 

Rottweiler

Well-Known Member
Looks like you're almost maxed out already. Only a couple turns left.
I agree looks like only a couple threads left to shorten the rod.
Question Does this effect the ride height if so, how much form soft to firm. Could I get more clearance by adjusting for a longer rod / firmer ride?
 

USNChief

Active Member
Ok i adjusted OUT as much as it would go and i do feel more travel.
Thanks allot.:D

What other things could i do to make it a softer ride? I was thinking the seat could be better any idea's on a good comfortable seat.
I looked into the seats with springs and one even had shocks. not really interested in welding on my frame to install.
the Le Parea seat i have has not cushion at all.

What about different shocks? this bike only has 2500 miles on it. im sure the shocks are not bad but are there better ones on the market.??
Good thing you didn't buy a rigid frame, you'd hate it.
 
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