tips on exchanging the shift link?

Reply Subscribe

Thread Tools

Search this Thread

May 8, 2007 | 03:07 PM

#11

clueless

Thread Starter

Tourer

Joined: Nov 2006

Posts: 303

Likes: 0

From: Pittsburgh, PA

RE: tips on exchanging the shift link?

nice but I didnt want to keep the stock shift link, it was heavy and bulky. the new shift link seems to respond better and it is easier to hit neutral. it has less flex then the OEM link.

I ended up not spending the money with Harley on my link... (went aftermarket)... but you know HD does that on purpose when they put in a non-chromed shift link part. Like the Handlebars they are polished steel and not chromed when the chromed ones are like $50 more! I spent how much on this bike and they didnt go the extra and put chromed handlebars...

Oh I see everyone changes them out usually :-(

May 8, 2007 | 05:54 PM

#12

XTrooper3936

Road Warrior

Joined: Oct 2006

Posts: 1,830

Likes: 8

From: Retired and living in the mountains of NE PA

RE: tips on exchanging the shift link?

Quote:

ORIGINAL: Badpig521

Quote:

ORIGINAL: XTrooper3936

Just a suggestion, but the chrome linkage covers are cheaper, easier to install, and look great!

Where did you get that?

It's a Harley part. They have several different styles.

The stock shift linkage is "heavy and bulky?!" That's kind of funny in that it weighs ounces on a 700+ lb. bike. FWIW, I've never had any trouble shifting or finding neutral using the stock linkage. And, of course, H-D purposely doesn't include chrome "everything" on their bikes when they sell them. First, they're a business and their goal is to make money and second, it gives us the opportunity to individualize our rides. Even if every single part on my bike were chromed when I bought it, I'd have changed out some things anyway just to make it my own and I'm sure I wouldn't be alone in this.

Glad to hear you're happy with your new shift linkage.

Jan 11, 2008 | 09:37 AM

#13

tbrashear

6th Gear

Joined: Sep 2007

Posts: 11

Likes: 0

RE: tips on exchanging the shift link?

Can anyone provide pointers for removing the factory shift linkage on an 06 Softail Deluxe? I haven't dug into it yet, but I noticed one end is bolted to the linkage and the other appears to be just a pin connected to the linkage w/no bolt.

Thanks in advance!

Jan 11, 2008 | 10:00 AM

#14

In Memoriam Citoriplus

May our Moderator Rest in Peace

Joined: Sep 2006

Posts: 11,386

Likes: 35

From: Rochester, NY

RE: tips on exchanging the shift link?

The front end is a nut and bolt deal, but the rear is actually a ball headed bolt that threads into the tranny shifter arm. Look closely at the back (inner?) side of the tranny shifter arm and you'll see its got a hex head between the arm and the shifter rod.
Just unscrew and Ta-Da, its off.

Jan 11, 2008 | 11:19 AM

#15

tbrashear

6th Gear

Joined: Sep 2007

Posts: 11

Likes: 0

RE: tips on exchanging the shift link?

Thanks Citoriplus! This is the 3rd time you've helped me with an issue and I appreciate it very much!

BTW...thanks for your service to our great country...your sacrifice is very much appreciated!

Jan 11, 2008 | 12:08 PM

#16

In Memoriam Citoriplus

May our Moderator Rest in Peace

Joined: Sep 2006

Posts: 11,386

Likes: 35

From: Rochester, NY

RE: tips on exchanging the shift link?

No problem, I think its fun to help a guy out if I can.

And Your Welcome.

Jan 13, 2008 | 04:23 PM

#17

marty44

Tourer

Joined: Aug 2006

Posts: 269

Likes: 1

From:

RE: tips on exchanging the shift link?

I replaced my stock linkage 2 days ago after reading this thread. I went for the HD stainless round rod with the heim joints ($87 plus) at the dealer. I did it because I occasionally miss neutral while stopped and have to kick it down to first again before getting it to go. I also thought there was just a bit of play in the linkage that didn't look right, even though the dealer's techie said it was fine. The install was a piece of cake and sure enough, the shifts feel more solid now and I can ease it into neutral the first time now. Money well spent.