I put a 1980 wide glide front end on a 72 FLH because I like dual discs. Bikes sitting too high right now. Looked into spring kits, but I need to lose about 4 inches. I could go spring kit and 2 inch shorter tubes, but that's pricey. Can't find 4 under tubes. So I think cutting is the way to go. Just spoke to a local machine shop who can do it. I would rather find some 4 under tubes, but this looks like the only option.

Questions.

After shortening, do I just reassemble front end, or do the springs need to be cut as well?

Anyone know the thread size I need?

Anyone know a good way to figure out exactly how much length to cut?

Any other pitfalls I want to avoid?


Don't worry, it won't look like this when finished. It's being restored.

 

if there isn't a spacer above the spring, you'll need shorter springs. probably money well spent anyway


bring the nut and let the machine shop measure so they get it right.


remove top tree, slide tubes up bottom tree until you get where you want, measure difference


while you have it apart, get new bushings and seals

 

http://franksforks.com/

 

Duh....why didn't I think of that! Slide them up until bike sits where you want. Mark and cut. Easy.

 

Ironhead...yep thanks for the mental slap. Sure...Franks used to advertise in Easyriders back in the 70's and I forgot all about them. Cool.

 

80 FXWG tubes are 24.75"...72 FLH tubes are 20.5"...84-up FL tubes are 20.25"

Whats the problem?

 

Sold the original front end. It was an adjustable off an old side car rig. Can't just swap tubes if that's what you are saying.

Can I take FL tubes and put the wide glide lowers on Them? That might be a way to go. Might be able to get some on eBay or swap meet.

 

Anybody know the thread size and pitch if I cut them and retap?

 

Dude, that's an 1980 or later FXWG front end you have, stock tube length is 24.75" and yours looks to be 4" over. Find a set of stock length tubes, leave the springs alone and I think you'll find the bike will sit pretty good when you done. The old shorter tube FL fronts sat low and rode like a lumber truck with busted springs.

 

Unless you have a lathe and some skills you don't cut fork tubes..........