Broken bag brackets
Broken bag brackets
I got a '93 FLHTC that I bought 3 years ago. Shortly after I replaced the stock pipes and slash cut mufflers. Installed a used set of Rinehart True Duals. Shortly after this I found that the left side bag support had broken. This is the main support rail that attaches to the fender. About 10 inches long. The bottom cracked where the bottom bag support rail bolts on. I made a piece to bolt on here and it has held for 3 years.
Last year one of the Z brackets broke ( not sure what the actual name is) where the bags bolt to the fender strut through the back of the bag. I had this welded and it held until a few days ago when I heard a strange rattle at about 1400 RPMs. Checked and the same Z bracket is broken in the same spot.
My questions are- Is this a normal thing? Do I possibly have a bad alignment of the rear header pipe putting too much strain on the supports? Could I possibly have a bad motor mount?
I know it could be anything but I'm looking for some direction as to which I should check (easiest fix without having to remove the pipes). I installed a rear bumper for added support. Couple pics to show the original break (just an internet pic) and my repair. Not real pretty but it works.
Any advice is greatly appreciated.
Thanks
Glenn
Last year one of the Z brackets broke ( not sure what the actual name is) where the bags bolt to the fender strut through the back of the bag. I had this welded and it held until a few days ago when I heard a strange rattle at about 1400 RPMs. Checked and the same Z bracket is broken in the same spot.
My questions are- Is this a normal thing? Do I possibly have a bad alignment of the rear header pipe putting too much strain on the supports? Could I possibly have a bad motor mount?
I know it could be anything but I'm looking for some direction as to which I should check (easiest fix without having to remove the pipes). I installed a rear bumper for added support. Couple pics to show the original break (just an internet pic) and my repair. Not real pretty but it works.
Any advice is greatly appreciated.
Thanks
Glenn
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 157,462
Likes: 57,017
From: Michigan 15 Minutes East Of Hell
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Drag-Special...-/321961868741
Check for proper side ... listing say HD ( heavy duty ) ... Mine never broke on my 1992.
Check for proper side ... listing say HD ( heavy duty ) ... Mine never broke on my 1992.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Drag-Special...-/321961868741
Check for proper side ... listing say HD ( heavy duty ) ... Mine never broke on my 1992.
Check for proper side ... listing say HD ( heavy duty ) ... Mine never broke on my 1992.
Glenn
Road Master
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 942
Likes: 323
From: Grew up in Texas, moved to AZ
I have the same bracket bought off the internet on my right saddlebag rail support and it has held well. Those things are heavy duty made.
If you are still getting cracks on those, I would first check your rear motor mounts. I would also looked at wheel alignment. Just some easy things to look at.
If you are still getting cracks on those, I would first check your rear motor mounts. I would also looked at wheel alignment. Just some easy things to look at.
Elite HDF Member
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 3,872
Likes: 83
From: Canton, Michigan
The 'Z' brackets also are prone to breaking from metal fatigue. I replaced at least one on my bike in the 23 years I've owned it. Also on the left side. IIRC, they have also been obsoleted by The MoCo. In addition, I recently replaced the left saddlebag hinge, which had broken. Seems to be a lot of vibration on the left side for some reason...
I sort of doubt it's due 100% to the muffler hanger. There is a rubber isolator (which is also a wear item), that absorbs a lot of the vibration.
Motor mounts can (and do) go bad. They're a wear item, IMHO. My bike is due for a new set, which will be the second or third set in 23 years. Normally the front goes out before the top. Good time to check the motor alignment when replacing them.
Last edited by Hackd; Jul 21, 2016 at 12:10 AM.
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