In over your head?
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Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 84
Likes: 0
From: Newnan
In over your head?
After reading about so many people that do their own modifications, I just got to wondering if anyone has ever gotten to the point of giving up and taking your bike to someone else.
I can just visualize myself right now looking @ a mechanic with a bewildered expression, a box of parts, and a trailer outside with a bike in 50 pieces.
I want to do as many mods as I can on my own. Not just to save money but to have that sense of satisfaction that comes from doing it myself.
I can just visualize myself right now looking @ a mechanic with a bewildered expression, a box of parts, and a trailer outside with a bike in 50 pieces.
I want to do as many mods as I can on my own. Not just to save money but to have that sense of satisfaction that comes from doing it myself.
Elite HDF Member
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 4,196
Likes: 1
From: Reno, Nevada
No, there is nothing I can't do on a bike. They really are easy and if you don't know how to do something, spend some time with a good manual, take pictures as you progress and don't be afraid to ask if you really can't figure out something...
Advanced
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 71
Likes: 1
From: Oswego,NY
I think that if your (1) mechanically inclined at all (2) if you do research on parts fitment (3) Take your time (4) ask questions when you aren't absolutely sure (5) Use a good common sense approach and know your limitations you'll probably be fine. Thousands of people do it all the time. Just in case, be ready to call a professional and have your checkbook ready. Oh, by the way, mistakes can be costly. Also I heard the other day, assumption is the mother of all f-ups. Good luck.
Big Kahuna HDF Member
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 23,881
Likes: 34
From: USA
I only do minor service and mods myself. Any internal engine work I will take out and have done by a skilled professional. But the $$ savings on 5k,10k etc service is worth the trouble and you know it's done right and don't have to waste hours at the dealership sitting there drinking lousy coffee all the while knowing you can do what the oil tech is doing.
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 8,642
Likes: 6
From: Forest Lake, Mn
Like it or not, the guy who you are going to take it to, started out at the same place you are, and I was when I started 40 some odd yrs ago.
First get a shop manual for the scoot.
Then some tools.
Grab the tools and go to work.
When it doesn't fit right, run right or look right, break out the manual and see what the hay you did wrong.
OR
Check the manual first, then grab the tools.
Either way works, one just a wee bit better than the other.
My beef with the 'new' scoots, is the same as the 'new' cars, you need about as many $$ in special tools as the scoot cost. Makes it difficult to take on some of the tasks. IF you know an indy in the area, get to know him or her(?) A LOT better. Might be able to borrow the tool you need, temporarily. Key word here - temporarily. I hate it when someone is smart enough to know where to come to borrow the tool, then they seem to forget where the heck I live.
But there is a ton of work, mods and upgrades you can accomplish in your grudge. And then feel good, PLUS help your buddies with theirs.
And if you get stranded, it is rather obvious to the most casual of observers, that you know how to log on here. And there are a ton of peeps on here, many who wrench on HDs for a living, who seem to be way more than happy to help and offer advice. (Course there are some who will offer advice, unhappy, but that's for a different thread and post.) Just check the manual, first.
And don't get intimidated, remember, it is a mechanical device built by men. It can't outsmart you. Maybe drive your butt crazy once in awhile (like eating primary belts), but it won't outsmart you.
First get a shop manual for the scoot.
Then some tools.
Grab the tools and go to work.
When it doesn't fit right, run right or look right, break out the manual and see what the hay you did wrong.
OR
Check the manual first, then grab the tools.
Either way works, one just a wee bit better than the other.
My beef with the 'new' scoots, is the same as the 'new' cars, you need about as many $$ in special tools as the scoot cost. Makes it difficult to take on some of the tasks. IF you know an indy in the area, get to know him or her(?) A LOT better. Might be able to borrow the tool you need, temporarily. Key word here - temporarily. I hate it when someone is smart enough to know where to come to borrow the tool, then they seem to forget where the heck I live.
But there is a ton of work, mods and upgrades you can accomplish in your grudge. And then feel good, PLUS help your buddies with theirs.
And if you get stranded, it is rather obvious to the most casual of observers, that you know how to log on here. And there are a ton of peeps on here, many who wrench on HDs for a living, who seem to be way more than happy to help and offer advice. (Course there are some who will offer advice, unhappy, but that's for a different thread and post.) Just check the manual, first.
And don't get intimidated, remember, it is a mechanical device built by men. It can't outsmart you. Maybe drive your butt crazy once in awhile (like eating primary belts), but it won't outsmart you.
Road Captain
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 640
Likes: 13
From: Hickory, NC area
I do just about everything myself and the best teacher is experience. I started a few years ago getting back to my roots and working on cars/trucks in my spare time. I tore a 66 F100 down to the frame and since then have decided there is nothing I am unwilling to try. I also have some good friends that are VERY good mechanics and always know how to help when I cannot diagnose something myself.
Seems to me the only way you would end up with a box of parts outside a shop is if you give up. Hang in there and you can usually figure it out. One other thing... sometimes walking away for 24 hours is the best "tool" in your toolbox.
Seems to me the only way you would end up with a box of parts outside a shop is if you give up. Hang in there and you can usually figure it out. One other thing... sometimes walking away for 24 hours is the best "tool" in your toolbox.
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Elite HDF Member
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 4,579
Likes: 10
From: S.E. MO
I thought I might have got in over my head the other day when I installed my Chrome Rocker covers but I took my time and followed the service manual and it turned out good.
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Cruiser
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 119
Likes: 1
From: Shelton, Wa.
I've done the mods on my Dyna but now probably am over my head on the project in my garage. Building a sporty powered hardtail bobber. I figure it'll be a great learning experience and a way to end up with exactly what I want.
I will run into problems and challenges along the way, but that's how I'll learn. My biggest concern will be wireing up an electric system. But it's all good
Wayne
I will run into problems and challenges along the way, but that's how I'll learn. My biggest concern will be wireing up an electric system. But it's all good
Wayne