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Installed my DIY shift linkage with heim joint rod ends. Came out pretty good
I used a 13-1/8" piece of 5/16" steel bar from Home Depot. It's sold as a 36" piece so just cut to length.
Then use a 5/16" - 24 die to thread the ends. As you can see I threaded a little too far but it's still ok. You'll want it a little long so you have threads for the jam nuts. In actuality, I'm not sure they're needed since the rod ends can't twist loose because they have a through bolt.
I used female 5/16" - 24 bronze insert rod ends with right hand threads. Picked them up from McMaster Carr for $5 each. Part # 6072K22
All in I spent about $14, including the 5/16" x 1" bolts, washers (don't need) and cap nuts. My work had the die and a vice so it went quickly.
The shifting does in fact feel more solid "positive" as another member once stated. If anything, it made for a nice little project and added a custom look to my Bob.
Last edited by getblended; Oct 22, 2014 at 07:30 AM.
Good job man, nothing feels better then making a little something out of nothing. The heim joint ends will tighten up the shifting for sure and won't leave you making road side okey fixes in Montana (ask me how I know). And yes a dirty bike can be a happy bike. Mines so filthy right now I won't wear anything but work clothes on it. Been a busy couple of weeks I need to wash her
Now that you know the proper length, you should cut another piece of rod you have left over from the original stock 36" piece, paint the whole thing black and mount her up - good job
Yeah, I may have to do this. Only thing is, I'd need another piece of steel. The 1st go around took a turn South when the threads on one side, didn't turn out as expected. Had to toss it. But for another $3, I may just do it. It would definitely look a little better.
Originally Posted by JMC22
Now that you know the proper length, you should cut another piece of rod you have left over from the original stock 36" piece, paint the whole thing black and mount her up - good job
Installed my DIY shift linkage with heim joint rod ends. Came out pretty good
I used a 13-1/8" piece of 5/16" steel bar from Home Depot. It's sold as a 36" piece so just cut to length.
Then use a 5/16" - 24 die to thread the ends. As you can see I threaded a little too far but it's still ok. You'll want it a little long so you have threads for the jam nuts. In actuality, I'm not sure they're needed since the rod ends can't twist loose because they have a through bolt.
I used female 5/16" - 24 bronze insert rod ends with right hand threads. Picked them up from McMaster Carr for $5 each. Part # 6072K22
All in I spent about $14, including the 5/16" x 1" bolts, washers (don't need) and cap nuts. My work had the die and a vice so it went quickly.
The shifting does in fact feel more solid "positive" as another member once stated. If anything, it made for a nice little project and added a custom look to my Bob.
For any of you that want to changeover to Heim joints, forum sponsor D&K Custom Products can provide the correct Heim Joints with jam nuts for $19.95 and shipping. Its fast and easy...just remove the stock parts and add these. They work with the stock shift rod, but I eventually want to replace it with stainless steel.
You will need to pick up the 5/16 X 24" bolts and cap nuts at a local hardware store.
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DIY Heim Joint Shift Linkage
