Jacking up a softail
Thread Starter
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Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 2,033
Likes: 45
From: Long Island, NY
Jacking up a softail
OK I just got my brandy new J & S jack and when I slide that puppy under the bike I notice of course the shocks set a bit below the frame rails (my first time jacking up the deluxe). So I check with J & S about what they have to say about centering the jack where the rear jack rail rests on the shocks and the response I got was:
"Hi Ed,
You won't hurt your shocks by placing the lift on them to raise it. We have done hundreds (probably 1000) demonstrations lifting a Softail, no damage done at all. "
I know harley does not subscribe to that philosophy they recommend using a set of frame rails that they sell. Do you guys agree that is ok to jack directly onto the shocks ?
"Hi Ed,
You won't hurt your shocks by placing the lift on them to raise it. We have done hundreds (probably 1000) demonstrations lifting a Softail, no damage done at all. "
I know harley does not subscribe to that philosophy they recommend using a set of frame rails that they sell. Do you guys agree that is ok to jack directly onto the shocks ?
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 17,143
Likes: 6,165
From: SE Michigan
I have a 2010 Heritage and on my bike there's just enough space on the frame to fit the jack such that its not sitting on the shock. Its not much space, but its there. I guess you arent finding the same space?
Thread Starter
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Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 2,033
Likes: 45
From: Long Island, NY
If you move the jack all the way to the rear you can catch the frame right behind the shocks but the bike is not quite as balanced on the jack as centering the jack on the frame.
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2007
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I don't use the jack under the shocks. I just don't feel comfortable with the weight of the bike resting on the shocks. I have those orange rubber frame protectors. Just my .02. Others may not use them and have no problems.
Stellar HDF Member
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 3,156
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From: So Cal
im also not comfortable with jacking up the bike and putting pressure on the shock bodies so I also use the orange rubber frame rail bumpers that HD sells
Most of my friends dont use then and it seems OK
Most of my friends dont use then and it seems OK
Former Sponsor
Joined: Jan 2009
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From: Los Angeles, CA
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Road Captain
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 581
Likes: 7
From: Portland, OR
If you request, J&S will send you free of charge, 2 pads that you can use on the back run of the jack to get the weight off of the shocks.
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