Shift linkage question
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 5,878
Likes: 17
From: The Desert SouthWest
RE: Shift linkage question
"Replace the stock one with any shift linkage that uses Heim joints to eliminate the possibility of failure on the road.
I think you can even keep the stock shifter rod and just replace the cheesy ball joints."
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The above is TRUE!
The factory linkage is unreliable and prone to failure/wear. The Heim joints are FAR more durable and reliable. Whatever you do replace that factory linkage OR carry a SPARE linkage and tools in your saddle bag otherwise you'll be on the side of the road and/or on a tow truck if you can't fix it.
I've had two of these stock linkages go out on me this year. Both times I had the spare linkage and was back on the road fairly quickly.
I now have the upgraded Heim joints to eliminate the problem.
I think you can even keep the stock shifter rod and just replace the cheesy ball joints."
------------------------------------------------------------
The above is TRUE!
The factory linkage is unreliable and prone to failure/wear. The Heim joints are FAR more durable and reliable. Whatever you do replace that factory linkage OR carry a SPARE linkage and tools in your saddle bag otherwise you'll be on the side of the road and/or on a tow truck if you can't fix it.
I've had two of these stock linkages go out on me this year. Both times I had the spare linkage and was back on the road fairly quickly.
I now have the upgraded Heim joints to eliminate the problem.
Advanced
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 50
Likes: 0
From:
RE: Shift linkage question
EBAY--Found chrome with chrome Heim bearings---25.00 including shipping. Looks damn near new.Much nicer than the galvanized POS. It bothered me too. Took a while waiting for the right one for the right price. Dealers want way too much.
Advanced
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 93
Likes: 0
From:
RE: Shift linkage question
ORIGINAL: petemac
What's a heim joint? Why's it better than a ball joint?
What's a heim joint? Why's it better than a ball joint?
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Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 9,335
Likes: 13
From: MA
RE: Shift linkage question
Thanks!
ORIGINAL: lawhd
A Heim joint is anextremely rigid articulating joint, commonly known as a "spherical rod-end," used in any precision linkage. Heim joints are often used in the suspension links of race cars because they locate wheels very precisely.
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[/blockquote]
ORIGINAL: petemac
What's a heim joint? Why's it better than a ball joint?
What's a heim joint? Why's it better than a ball joint?
[blockquote]
[/blockquote]
Grand HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 4,022
Likes: 3
From: Hudson Valley- NY
RE: Shift linkage question
If you're looking for a custom shift linkage, call Vance at Roadnames.us one of our sponsors here. Great work, class act.
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Road Captain
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 511
Likes: 0
RE: Shift linkage question
I just got done putting the 'twisted' linkage on my Ultra. I have definately noticed a significant more positive and solid feel to shifting when riding. Its amazing how much difference replacing that rod makes.
Yeah its expensive but its a Harley! And I wont be replacing it on a regular basis.
Yeah its expensive but its a Harley! And I wont be replacing it on a regular basis.
Road Master
Joined: Nov 2005
Posts: 1,055
Likes: 0
From: The birthplace of our nation- Philadelphia proud!
RE: Shift linkage question
ORIGINAL: flyslow
I just got done putting the 'twisted' linkage on my Ultra. I have definately noticed a significant more positive and solid feel to shifting when riding. Its amazing how much difference replacing that rod makes.
Yeah its expensive but its a Harley! And I wont be replacing it on a regular basis.
I just got done putting the 'twisted' linkage on my Ultra. I have definately noticed a significant more positive and solid feel to shifting when riding. Its amazing how much difference replacing that rod makes.
Yeah its expensive but its a Harley! And I wont be replacing it on a regular basis.