Instructions are worthless as usual! How in the hell does one person do it without destroying your paint, as I have started to do!!!! Is the large washer at the front of the strut to be removed?? If so, the lame *** instructions don't tell ya as they are glued on! No way in hell you can press the fender together to gain clearance to go between the rack.

http://www.harley-davidson.com/gma/g...bmLocale=en_US

 

I'm guessing you are talking about the H-D fender rack? I cant speak to it, but for sideplates those spacer washers stay in there, so I'd think they do for the rack as well. If you leave em out the fender will warp out to the struts. Harley aint real particular when they weld stuff up and fit can be problematic at times. Also, some masking tape can help a great deal in tight areas around paint .... I dont work on mine without it.

Maybe that will help ...

PsTaN

 

If you place your kickstand on a 2X4 it will sit your bike more upright and prevent the flex in the rear. I found this out during the installation of a back rest years ago on my other bike.

 

If you have "denim" style paint, and you scratch it a bit, put some motor oil on your finger, and rub it in. It works, don't ask me how I know.

 

Like stated previously I use painters tape every time I put my sissy bar side plates on. They are non-detachable that I cut to make "somewhat" detachable. Just take your time and be patient. An extra hand couldn't hurt either.

I also like the 2x4 tip....makes sense. I'll try that next time.

 

Orange Glow works well on my denium black.

 

Got one of these in the mail on its way to me... Tell me it isn't as much of a headache as it sounds like right now!

 

It is! You tell me your trick when you install it, good luck NOT scratching your paint! Harley aftermarket accessories, what a joke! Guess why that chit is made in China!

 

I think the trick is to have the bike level,loosen all the fender mount fixtures..then crack a can of beer and be patient.Maybe it's a harder job with the one piece rack?but think it fits the same as fitting rigid side plates for a sissy bar,they fit between the fender struts and fender,I used some thin card held against the fender and gently pushed the side plates down(after notching the holes in the side plates,then when they were in position I pulled the card out and re-tightened the bolts.

 

It can be a challenge and will be easier with two people. I did do it by myself and you do need to be "Very Careful" and "Take Your Time". Not sure what year bike you have. The instructions are straight forward.
Remove the reflectors!
Drape plastic over fender, I used a garbage bag (did you do this?)
Washers or spacers go between the rack and frame, these are a pain if you can not stick them back onto the rack.
I put the rack into position, dropped the spacers in as I pushed the dowel pins through, lifted the fender up in the front and pushed the dowels out with the bolts. Then I lifted the rear of the fender up and installed the inner mounting bracket which locates the fender to the frame and install the signal bolt. Pull the plastic out and reassemble.
CB
I wrote this real fast because I was heading out the door and saw the post and thought I would try to help. Don't Rush It!!! Get someone to help you!