lubing the heim joints

[1bigdg]

I am have a problem with my bike down shifting, Someone wrote "try lubing the heim joints". Can someone tell me what they are and were they are at?

 

[toomanybikes]

The heim joints are the connectors at either end of the shift rod

 

[woodbutcher]

the rod that connects the shift lever at your left foot to the shift lever at the transmission has (2) swivel joints, (1) at each end. these are the heim joints. use wd40 as a quick fix but look for a better lube when you get a chance.

 

[scubaman15]

I had this problem and someone suggested removing them putting them in a vice and using a drill to spin them while lubing them ..."not to fast" this worked I was going to buy some new ones but tried this first and presto ..... give it a try!

 

[BBChopper]

I use Silicone spray. It’s a good plastic and rubber lubricant.:2thumbs:

 

[Raywood]

The ball is nothing more than a ball bearing with a hole drilled in it and the side flattened. I pull mine apart and then turn the ball 90 degrees. This will allow you to get lube on the inside of the teflon sleave it rides in then spin it around ensuring lube gets all around the inside.
I'm still on my original set from 04 and never had an issue with them as long as they are kept lubed.

 

[BBChopper]

 

[BikersDream]

Replace them!! $12.00 dollars for both! I have many in stock!

 

[alphadog]

My rear heim joint spins with the bolt. I can get the bolt of the tranny arm but not out of the joint. Bad joint? Should I replace?

 

[V]

My rear heim joint spins with the bolt. I can get the bolt of the tranny arm but not out of the joint. Bad joint? Should I replace?

Doesn't sound like the joint is bad. sounds like the bolt has just seased up in the ball ,might soak it with blaster or equal and try to tap it out, just make sure you don't damage the bolt threads. Oh and I don't think theres ever a bad joint

 

[MisterMister]

Have an 08 k9....mine were replaced by the dealer under warranty. Said that BD recommended replacement on some models due to a manufacturing defect. Problem is they don't know which one's are defective until you complain about not be able to shift.

 

[alphadog]

Thanks V. I tried to tap the bolt out of the joint lightly but I did not know if the joint is threaded also.

 

[alphadog]

I just found on another post by JimNubs that the rear joint is reverse threaded. Sounds like the bolt is supposed to spin with the join then.

 

[Bowhunter]

Jerry,
The reverse threads you are talking about are the threads that go into the SHIFT ROD near the transmission, there are NO threads in the heim joint. Your bolt is seized up in the ball.

 

[alphadog]

Thanks Steve! I will replace it. I was hoping this was my shifter problem and not the tranny.
I just ordered a set of heim joints from Bikers Dream in Georgia (above post). Sounded like a good bunch of guys on the phone. I'll update as to when I receive them.

 

[alphadog]

Bikers Dream of Atlanta was excellent doing business with. Friendly service. Fast shipping. I ordered the parts Wednesday and received them Friday. Fantastic. I took my old heim joints off and cleaned and lubed em but they still do not swivel like the ones I just received.