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

 

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Drag-Special...-/321961868741

Check for proper side ... listing say HD ( heavy duty ) ... Mine never broke on my 1992.

 

That's a good price. J&P wants around $90.00 Canadian. But this isn't the bracket I'm concerned with right now. Its the smaller one, shaped like a Z that is attached to fender strut and bolts through back of bags. I don't know why I'm having this problem and only on the left side.

Glenn

 

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.

 

Harley has a updated version. I believe they are like 85 a side.

 

The left side support bracket (part 90718-79C) broke on mine 4 years ago. Normal? Who's to say... On a 23 year old bike, crap is going to break eventually. It was a real be-ah-tch to change (because I didn't remove the rear wheel). From what I recollect, that part may still be available from The MoCo (retailed for $70 back in 2012). JP Cycle has a replacement: http://www.jpcycles.com/product/362-815 for $49.95.

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.

 

Great ideas and advice guys. Heading to work. Thanks ...

Glenn