Looking for a reasonably priced lift to do general maintenance and repairs for my Harley 48.

What are you guys using? Seen a few at Sears (Craftsman ones for like $180) dunno if junk or not.

http://www.sears.com/craftsman-profe...2&blockType=G2

I can't afford $1k for a lift... maybe $2-300 bucks.

Thanks!

 

My buddy uses a Harbor Freight foot pump lift for his Softail and has no issues. More manual labor to lift it over a pneumatic but it works on a budget. He rebuilt his bike on it so yes it does hold up to abuse.

 

Check this thread:
https://www.hdforums.com/forum/sport...ycle-lift.html

Seems one of the better jacks is J&S but it is about $500...well worth the money if you plan to use it often or store the bike on the jack.

I use a Titan MPJ1500 mainly because it is low profile and decently priced. Basically same features as the J&S, Craftsman, HF jacks

 

Thanks for the thread! Basically all the questions and answers I was looking for. I gotta start using the search button.

 

I actually have that jack for my 48. It's great. Works well with the bike. Keeps it tight and steady. Also, the jack itself is super lightweight so when you're finished your project just literally pick it up and move it. I use it on a concrete garage floor and rolls well on that.

 

New member...you are excused..lol

 

Thats good to know! I was hoping not super heavy so I can store it somewhere in the garage out of the way. I will maybe use it 2-3x a year.

 

Question for you then! I actually have both the Red and Yellow Pro Craftsman jacks. I bought the Yellow Pro first but was unable to get the bike up safely, either the jiffy stand got in the way or if I was able to find a spot it felt off balance once raised. I then went and picked up the cheaper Red jack and it seems to be better since it doesn't have the crossmember bar in the front of the jack like the Yellow one does. Is your bike stock height? Do you have any pics of it on the jack? I would much prefer to keep the Yellow Pro for the same reasons you mentioned but was going to return it today and just keep little red. Any help would greatly be appreciated and sorry for the hi-jack (awesome pun)

 

Yes, it's stock height. I don't have pictures at the moment... and probably won't until the end of next month (I keep the bike out of state).

We were able to roll it under the bike easily enough. And we placed the rear strap over the bike where the tank and seat meet. The forward strap I wrapped through the triple tree once and then over the forward rocker. Once they were loosely in placed, we jacked it up about 12" or so. Then you need to let the jack down to a locking position (this may have been the step you missed). Once in the locked position on the jack, we tightened the straps the sucker was in place. It's also smart to lock the front up so if you accidentally bump the tire it doesn't move and shift the weight on the jack.

 

I bought a J&S and I absolutely love it. I was more concerned about lifting my Ultra safely, but it works nicely with the Sporty too. It's not cheap, but seems worth the investment to me and I'm sure it will last as long as I'm riding.