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Tools needed for DIY maintenance

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Old Jun 23, 2010 | 09:00 PM
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Default Tools needed for DIY maintenance

Looking for a basic list of must get's for anyone planning on doing their own basic maintenance. Looking at fix my hog to start familiarizing myself with my bike's components and while there isn't enough time in the day to go to a class or school to learn from the pro's, I always prefer DIY. Looked up and down for a must have list but couldn't find one. . Thanks.
 
Old Jun 23, 2010 | 09:12 PM
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If you do not already have one, buy a shop manual. They are just about a requirement for anyone that does their own work. A quality mechanics tool set and torque wrenches (both inch and foot pound wrenches) will cover most of the maintenance and accessory installations.
 

Last edited by Arcane; Jun 23, 2010 at 09:26 PM.
Old Jun 23, 2010 | 09:13 PM
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Before someone else chrips in, you need a ice cooler!!!
 
Old Jun 23, 2010 | 09:20 PM
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Hahaha good stuff! Thanks -

Also looking for anyone around the area (I'm in Woodridge but travel all over Chicagoland) who might show me some of the ropes, talk mods, etc.
 
Old Jun 23, 2010 | 09:48 PM
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May i be the first to suggest the Harley Belt Tension tool and the rear wheel alignment tool(ol ladys coat hangar with one end bent). Pretty much need those.
 
Old Jun 23, 2010 | 10:09 PM
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One word....Torx
 
Old Jun 23, 2010 | 10:20 PM
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I'm also looking to start doing my own maintenance and mods so this should be interesting..........subscribed
 
Old Jun 23, 2010 | 10:28 PM
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general mechanics hand tool set,
10mm twelve point socket for front brake caliper bolts
36mm socket wrench to loosen / remove rear axle nut.
set of allen and torx. be sure to extra torx #27...you'll need them.
Most of all...GET THE SHOP MANUAL for your bike!
 

Last edited by DZLDR; Jun 23, 2010 at 10:29 PM. Reason: added tool
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Old Jun 23, 2010 | 10:55 PM
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As others have stated, the first order of business is getting the manual for your specific model (in your case, 2009 Dyna). You won't get far without it.

Next, torx wrenches were my first purchase. A LOT of the bolts are held in via torx. The 27 likely being the most important.

Torque wrenches...also EXTREMELY important. Everything is set to specific torque measurements.

If you're like me, I didn't know the difference between a torx and a torque wrench untill I looked like a fool at the local Sears. So, be sure to do a little homework about what each is for before investing. It will help you make a wiser purchase.

These are what I would deem as being the most important initial investments. Outside that, it is up to you.

I would also suggest a jack/lift. J&S Jacks probably makes the best on the market: http://www.jsjacks.com/ However, if budget is an issue, there are many others at better prices.
 
Old Jun 23, 2010 | 11:07 PM
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Don't forget fix your hog DVDs well worth the money buy tools as you need them for your average shad tree mechanic Sears is the place to go.have patients have fun.
 



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