Hey guys:

I'm trying to lean about Softail rear suspensions.

I built a custom bike using many H-D parts including a Softail rear suspension.

The bike rides great but if possible I'd like to firm up the rear suspension.

I don't even know what year/model rear suspension I have or how many styles there are.

Mine has two cylinders with a remote reservoir.

I see what look like possible "adjustment rings" in the the cylinders, if that's the correct term, with some holes in them. I'm assuming there is a tool to turn the rings to stiffen the suspension to hold more weight.

Naturally I could be assuming wrong but I thought this would be the place to learn.

Any Softail input is appreciated!!

Thanks
Randy

 

If you have a stock softail shock setup, then yes there is a spanned wrench to turn and set the preload on the shocks. Loosen the locknut and turn the shock barrel counter clockwise (when viewed from the front of the bike) to add more pre-load.

 

I appreciate the reply. I see some spanners listed for different years, any idea how to narrow down the year?

Thanks
Randy

 

Are there any visible part numbers?

 

What type of frame did you build on?

Most custom builds are based on an EVO frame, so the shocks would be those from 84-99.

 

I haven't noticed any part #'s but wasn't really looking, good idea, I'll try and get a closer look.

Also, I only used the rear section of a Softail frame to accept the Softail swing arm assembly so have no clue on the original application.

I bought the frame section from a H-D Dealer and he was very leery that I was putting together a bike with stolen parts so he kept most of the frame including the neck.

I bought the swing arm assembly from a guy who replace it with a wide tire arm and never thought to ask its original application.

Now that it seems there are many Softail variations I was lucky in blindly buying a swing arm and rear frame section that were compatible.!!

I built the bike back around 1999-2000 so the 1984-89 makes sense.

Was 1984 the first Softail?? Were the 1984-89 Evo swing arms interchangeable??

Sounds like you are getting me on the right track!!

Thanks
Randy

 

me thinks you're over thinking this. Just get under there loosen up those lock nuts and put a spanner wrench on it! If you got the wrong wrench (which is doubtful,) exchange it for another, haha. Good luck..

 

Its possible, but its in a very tight spot and I'm old and fragile!!

I see so many spanners listed for different models is what has me trying to line up the correct one.

Maybe they're all interchangeable, I'm hoping someone has some experience can chime in.

Thanks
Randy

 

check and see if a dealership can rent you one instead of buying it. Chances are you'll only use it once.

 

Measure the distance between the holes on the shock, then go to the dealer and see what fits.