Shift linkage
Extreme HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 10,449
Likes: 46
From: Roswell, GA
RE: Shift linkage
The shift rods with heim joint ends seem to make a difference; the HD OEM units occasionally fail at the boll joint end. I changed the stock unit on my '04 EG to the HD stainless rod with the heim joint ends and believe it to be a better linkage. Lots of folks have simply purchased threaded heim joints and replaced the OEM set-up using the stock threaded rod with the new Heim joints.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 10,675
Likes: 95
From: Billings,Mt.
RE: Shift linkage
The only thing that may change is the distance between the floorboard/peg and the toe shifter.If the new shift rod is the same length as the stock rod,the distance should be about the same.The distance could be adjusted at theHeims or the splines on the toe shifter.
Trending Topics
Intermediate
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 30
Likes: 0
RE: Shift linkage
I changed only the ball and socket end to a hiem joint. Made a nice difference. Much more positive feeling and easier to find nuetral.
HD Forum Stories
The Best of Harley-Davidson for Lifelong Riders
8 Best Harley-Davidson Motorcycles Ever
Pouria Savadkouei
10 Worst Harley-Davidson Motorcycles Ever
Pouria Savadkouei
Killer Custom's Jail Break Is The Breakout That Refused to Blend In
Verdad Gallardo
Crazy Bunderbike Build Looks Amazing, But Is It Impossible to Ride?
Verdad Gallardo
Harley-Davidson Reveals Super Cool Cafe Racer Concept
Verdad Gallardo
Engraved Rebellion: Inside Bundnerbike's Glam Rock II
Verdad Gallardo
10 Motorcycles You Should Never Buy
Joe Kucinski
10 Things Harley-Davidson Needs to Fix in 2026
Verdad Gallardo
Southpaw Super Glide: A Left-Hand-Drive 1979 Harley FXE Built to Fit the Rider
Verdad Gallardo
Cruiser
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 154
Likes: 1
From: Erie, PA
RE: Shift linkage
Just changed shift rod on my 06 RKC. I got lucky. Someone had a new Landmark Manufacturing stainless shift rod with heim joints and the lever cover. Put a bid in for 19.00 and got it. Landmark sells it for 119.00. simple install. I do believe there is a more positive feel in shifting.
Elite HDF Member
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 4,523
Likes: 1
From: South Florida
RE: Shift linkage
ORIGINAL: OKIEVO
I changed only the ball and socket end to a hiem joint. Made a nice difference. Much more positive feeling and easier to find nuetral.
I changed only the ball and socket end to a hiem joint. Made a nice difference. Much more positive feeling and easier to find nuetral.
+1 feels great!!!!!