Upper Handlebar Clamp Torque Spec?
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Upper Handlebar Clamp Torque Spec?
This past weekend I noticed that the handlebar on my 1993 FLSTF (Fatboy) was loose. I checked my 1993 Harley factory service manual but I wasn't able to find the torque specifications for the upper clamp (HD Part #56567-86B). Do I just use a torque spec based upon the fastener, which is a 5/16 - 18 x 1-1/2 socket head screw (HD Part #4816A)?
Which in this case I believe is 12 ft-lbs.
Which in this case I believe is 12 ft-lbs.
Last edited by LQQK_OUT; Jul 16, 2018 at 12:10 PM.
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I just torqued mine a month or two ago, but was able to find the spec in my '95 flstf manual. I don't remember what the spec was, but believe I found it in the fork re-assembly section. My memory sucks, so sorry in advance if that's incorrect. My manual is in my dad's garage, can check this weekend if you still need it.
Now, now. Play nice! 
I call that "wrist tight". Hold the wrench so that the business end is practically in the palm of your hand. That way, you don't get too much leverage. Get them as snug as you can like that, then maybe go back with more leverage on the wrench and give them a smidge more...like maybe another 1/8th to 1/4 turn, tops. Like G says, you're screwing a steel bolt into relatively soft metal. A delicate hand is called for.
I call that "wrist tight". Hold the wrench so that the business end is practically in the palm of your hand. That way, you don't get too much leverage. Get them as snug as you can like that, then maybe go back with more leverage on the wrench and give them a smidge more...like maybe another 1/8th to 1/4 turn, tops. Like G says, you're screwing a steel bolt into relatively soft metal. A delicate hand is called for.
Dirt don't hurt
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From: Haslet Texas
I call that "wrist tight". Hold the wrench so that the business end is practically in the palm of your hand. That way, you don't get too much leverage. Get them as snug as you can like that, then maybe go back with more leverage on the wrench and give them a smidge more...like maybe another 1/8th to 1/4 turn, tops. Like G says, you're screwing a steel bolt into relatively soft metal. A delicate hand is called for.
At a guess it sets them around 75 ft lbs of torque.
Never stripped a riser or a bolt.
As for a delicate hand if I did it that way my handle bars would be flopping all over the place.
Been there done that which is why I now just hit them with the impact.
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If I'm understanding the question right and it is referring to the 4 bolts that hold the handlebar clamp to the risers then like I said I use my Dewalt 20 volt impact and just hammer the bolts in until they don't move anymore.
At a guess it sets them around 75 ft lbs of torque.
Never stripped a riser or a bolt.
As for a delicate hand if I did it that way my handle bars would be flopping all over the place.
Been there done that which is why I now just hit them with the impact.
At a guess it sets them around 75 ft lbs of torque.
Never stripped a riser or a bolt.
As for a delicate hand if I did it that way my handle bars would be flopping all over the place.
Been there done that which is why I now just hit them with the impact.
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Dirt don't hurt
Joined: Jan 2011
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From: Haslet Texas
FWIW I'm using stock Harley risers that have been powder coated.
Like I said that 75 ft lbs was a guess.
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If I were running ape hangers, Id also have to use excessive torque and take my chances, but Im not.
Last edited by Uncle G.; Jul 18, 2018 at 07:18 AM.