Why is it?

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Jul 25, 2007 | 07:47 PM

SPECIAL ED

Thread Starter

Elite HDF Member

Joined: Jun 2006

Posts: 3,572

Likes: 5

From: Templeton California

Why is it?

Every time I attempt the simplest project I have to go buy a new tool.When I bought a Harley I figured all those standard sockets I've been acumulating over the years would finally be put to use but literally every time I go to wrench on this bike I end up buying a new tool.My first project changing the handle bars I needed a set of Torx bits.Then I tried to re drill and lower the fender I had to go out and buy a new set of allen wrenchs.Then I decided to throw on a set of fork gaiters, I needed 12 point sockets, actually I just needed a 10mm but I ended up buying a set.Halfway into this project I discovered I need more torx bits because the first set I bought doesn't have one big enough to loosen the forks.What, is Harley in league with the tool industry? Sorry for the rant but it's not like I don't have any tools. I've managed to muddle through with my metric bikes for decades with literally nothing more than a good socket set and common household tools.

Jul 25, 2007 | 09:11 PM

shoptroll

Banned

Joined: Jun 2007

Posts: 5,431

Likes: 0

From: Elizabethtown, Pa

RE: Why is it?

Everything started going to crap when the Torx bits came out. I didn't have any 12 point sockets either but I asked my wife for the 283 pc. Craftsman mechanic's tool set last christmas and I threw in a full Torx socket set too. I gave all my old stuff to my son.

Jul 25, 2007 | 09:30 PM

jeffbcn

Road Master

Joined: May 2007

Posts: 993

Likes: 1

From: Southern California

RE: Why is it?

I have wondered the same thing. I recognize that Harleys are sophisticated machinery, but compared to an automobile or my pick-up they are much smaller. Such a wide range of fastners in such a confined space is puzzling to me.

Jul 26, 2007 | 06:58 AM

SPECIAL ED

Thread Starter

Elite HDF Member

Joined: Jun 2006

Posts: 3,572

Likes: 5

From: Templeton California

RE: Why is it?

OK so my next project will either be wrapping my Thunderheader or installing the Electraglide shocks I got off Ebay. Anybody know what new tools I'll need for those projects?

Jul 26, 2007 | 07:09 AM

b5mac

Tourer

Joined: Mar 2007

Posts: 368

Likes: 0

From: Alexandria, VA

RE: Why is it?

I've started replacing all my Torx screws and bolts with Allen Head bolts and screws. I hate those things.

Jul 26, 2007 | 07:13 AM

Punty

Road Warrior

Joined: Mar 2007

Posts: 1,530

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From: Sussex County NJ

RE: Why is it?

Thank God my second Illness is collecting tools

Jul 26, 2007 | 07:36 AM

dlstanf2

Road Master

Joined: Jul 2006

Posts: 754

Likes: 2

From: New Bern, NC

RE: Why is it?

Most of the specialty fastners is due to the manufacturing process. A torx bit holds to the tool better and is faster at getting the fastners installed. Each part of the installation process is specialized to save time and energy for the MOCO, not you.