So after buying this FLHT, I have decided that the suspension needs some TLC.
The back was easy, searched thru some past posts and found that a set of progressives was a good bang for the buck. Wise choice because its all good.

Now, the fronts.
Its not holding any air, I hear the click for the anti dive, but it constantly bottoms out and rides like poo poo.

So, do I find the source of the air leak, change the oil and see how it is?

Do I just install some new springs and call it done?

I took the outer off, and I must say, I am a little intimidated by all that stuff in there.

I have done my searches, but I am still on the fence.
I am looking for the best bang for the buck and was hoping for something I could do myself!

 

First off what's better for you rebuild or replace? Which is cheaper, gives a better ride etc. It's all intimidating the first time. I am digging into mine now on stuff I've never opened up. Sportsters was my thing now I've got an Evo and learning as I go. But if ypu decide to do it yourself, the guys on here are great and will go out of their way to help you. They have pulled me through a few rough patches.

 

You can buy a rebuild kit from Dennis Kirk or JP Cycles. Open the manual and go from there. Have patience there is a lot of crap to wade thru but you will get it right and properly functioning that front end is a pretty nice ride.

 

A lot of people put the Progressive Heavy duty front fork springs (for over 225 lbs) and 20 wt, which works real well. They are about $100 (J&P) and any shop will install them for 3 hrs labor or about $200...all done for about 300! With the fairing and all the stuff that's RR-ed I'll pay $200 any day.

 

If the forks are oil tight, the things that can go wrong with the air system are all relatively simple. The manifold on the top of the triple-tree has a few O rings and sealing washers, any of which may have a leak; there is a short piece of hose that may be split, or the clamps loose; and there is a tyre valve in the l/h end of the handlebars. If you bought new parts for all of those it will only cost pocket money! The only part I have replaced on mine, having owned it from new, is a valve.

 

I changed over to Progressive springs. Better then stock. Progressive now has a cartridge "drop in" that I would probaly do today which I "hear" is even better.