I would like to remove the backrest on my 2008 Heritage Softail Classic.

There are two screws to remove on each side, however one of them is so close to the fender that even if I can get a connection, I will scratch the fender.

Any ideas?

Thanks,

Balloo

 

Can you get to the nut on the inside of the fender?

 

Are you talking about the sissybar? As I recall when I took mine off years ago was that there was a screw (torx or allen) on one side that was a bit of a pain. Don't recall if I used a wobble allen, bit with a wrench, or whatever but I did get it out without doing any damage.

 

Yes, it is the sissybar that I want to remove.

It attaches with two screws on each side, and the lower one is very close to the fender.

Have never heard of a "wobble allen bit", but then I do not know much, so will ask at the parts store.

I would like to be able to take it off from time to time, but do not want to go to the expense of a "quick disconect system"

Thanks,
Balloo

 

I don't know of any way to get the lower of the 2 screws out without taking the sideplates off which requires either the quick disconnect system or taking off the fender strut covers to remove the plates. You could do this and then just use the upper screw to secure the sissy bar, I suppose. Thought I saw a quick disconnect system for sale in here or maybe eBay recently.

 

I don't remember if it was an allen or torx. A wobble allen has a rounded end so you can use it at an angle. I've never seen one for a torx. But now that I've had time to think about it, I didn't buy my wobble allens till after I took that sissy bar off. Must have used some other work around. But in any case, I don't remember it being a major pita. If I had a pic I might be able to suggest something to you but it's been 5 years since I took mine off.

 

on my 07 I took off the SB plates and mounted the quick Detach system..

I don't recall anything like Ur talking about... Thinking Ur probably looking at the wrong screw..

A Pic would help a bunch...

IMO just U just need to bite the bullet and spend a little $$$ green for the Detachable system.. U wont be sorry U made the change.

I cant wait to hear what U have to say about what they want $$$ for a Service or other items Ur bike will need later on.
Owning a HD is not cheap.



.

 

seen your post & I'm having the same problem with my sissy bar lower 2 bolts to close to fender. Wondering how u removed them

 

Lay down a towel so you don't scratch anything. Loosen and remove the 2 rear bolts of the side plates.While holding the sissy bar, slightly loosen the front bolts and rotate the sissy bar and side plates forward and remove the sissy bar. Make sure you lay a towel down so you don't scratch anything. getting the rear bolts back in can be a little tricky

 

Additional note: use blue Loctite when replacing sissy bar screws. You don't want to have to do this again if they vibrate loose.