I put some new shocks on my 09 Ultra and the instructions were to insure that where the rear shock mounts at top and bottom are "aligned" and if not to put a shim washer(s) between the shock and the mounting boss so the shock is perpendicular to the bottom bolt. Well, I found the left shock top mounting boss is inward about 10mm from the bottom mounting boss. Seems like quite a bit. I did the measurements with the rear tire off the ground.

By the way, the right bottom was out of alignment outward by only 2mm.

Is this common? Could the install of the rear tire possibly cause this? No accidents other than a couple side drops. Bike rides fine at 80 - 90 mph.

thanks!

 

I don't think it uncommon for the stock HD shocks to be out of alignment.


Both of mine were out of alignment when I installed my JRI's - 10mm really isn't that much for a non-tolerance item like a stock shock.


Just follow the directions, shim as needed and you'll be fine.


Enjoy the better ride

 

Go find a huge pothole and ride over it...they'll line up.

 

A couple of side drops? That's 900 pounds twice.

 

Where I live here in Pennsyltucky, pot holes and square edged expansion joints are the norm everywhere.

Haven't straighted up the shocks and sure haven't straightened out my spine.

thanks for the advice though!

 

Thanks! just wanted to make sure another fine dealership piece of work on my bike, e.g., install new rear tire, wasn't the culprit.