Read the threads and think I got it. Have V&H Propipe so plan to remove top shock bolts to remove axle. Then jack bike back up to remove wheel. Question about adjusting belt tension. Do the shock bolts need to be installed to get the correct swing arm angle to check belt tension?

 

I usually check and or adjust the tension before removing the wheel and mark the eccentric cam adjusters with a sharpie and just put it where it was.

 

I marked my cam eccentric with a punch before pulling the axle. Both times I've changed tires, I double checked the belt tension and it's been spot on using my marks.

 

This is how I do it as well. Belt tension and wheel alignment are alway right on the money.

 

That's how I do it also.

 

Yes shocks has to be installed to get it right.Twist the belt with two fingers about 45 degree twist is perfect, less or more too tight or loose and check on few location to get it right. When torquing the axle nut make sure to hold the opposite side in place with another wrench or it will move and belt will get out of adjustment.Don't know your bike model but it is important on 08 or later touring harley to torque correctly or wheel bearings will fail premature.

 

A belt tension gauge is only about 25.00. Spend the money and do the job right. And the shocks do need to be hooked up to get the belt adjustment right.

Bill

 

It is so straight-forward to check and get right that I just remove the wheel and bother about getting it right after I refit the wheel! Buy the tension gauge, if you don't have one. I've had mine 24 years and it still works fine!

 

What year bike do you have? Why do the shocks need removal?You should only need to remove any exhaust that is in the way. If you have a jack that allows you to reach enough height for the wheel to clear after the axle is removed. Later Fairshake

 

Ok have a question. All you guys that say you check the belt tension and it is spot on, so you mark it and put it back in the same spot. If you know when it is correct, then why are you marking it, just remove it put it back and adjust. Like grbrown said pretty straight forward.