progressive fork spring installation
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Cruiser
Joined: Jan 2007
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progressive fork spring installation
I'm installing the progressive rear shocks myself but I thought I'd have the dealer do the fork springs sinceI don't think I have the right tools and thebike has to go in for a recall anyway. They want like $200.00 for it. Is this a fair price?
Road Warrior
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 1,688
Likes: 4
From: Crisfield, MD
RE: progressive fork spring installation
The average rate at most HD shops is $65/hr. plus parts. Having replaced mine in 30 minutes I would say they're ripping you off, but then again most service depts. do. All you need is a 1 3/8 socket or large adjustable wrench, a bike lift or jack the front of the frame up on 2x4s to get the front up and fork springs unloaded and some fork oil and your set, just follow the instructions. That $200 could certainly be put to better use like getting a service manual, craftsman bike lift, and tools with money left over.
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 2,139
Likes: 0
From: PA.
RE: progressive fork spring installation
Save the 200!
they are not hard to do.
I'm waiting on a set now,did the shocks last week. You really shouldn't even need more fork oil. just let what is on the springs run off back in the fork.
Good luck!
they are not hard to do.
I'm waiting on a set now,did the shocks last week. You really shouldn't even need more fork oil. just let what is on the springs run off back in the fork.
Good luck!
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 8,438
Likes: 6
From: Gulf Coast of Mississippi
RE: progressive fork spring installation
It took me a little over 45 minutes to build a new front end... seals, bushing and springs...
But... then again... if you don't want to mess with it... pay the man....
Charlie D.
But... then again... if you don't want to mess with it... pay the man....
Charlie D.
Cruiser
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 179
Likes: 0
From: Tampa, FL
RE: progressive fork spring installation
I installed Progressive shocks and fork springs last night. Relatively easy to install. I have a motorcycle lift which helps to unload the front and rear suspensions. Went with black 11.5" 412's and changed the fork oil to heavier weight SE "racing" oil. Rather than mess with the fork drain holes I pumped the fluid out using a Mighty Vac speed bleeder. I measured what I removed (about 8oz. each) and replaced the same amount, but afterwards I realized that I didn't take into account any fluid left clinging to the stock springs, spacer, etc. I took the bike for a test ride and it is much better than stock but the front is a little "soft" so I am going to go back and add 2.5oz. more fork oil. Harley manual states 11 oz. totaleach side but the Progressive directions are rather vague and state that the Progressive springs "move" more oil so you don't want to add too much. That's why I chose to run a little less first to see what it was like and add more later. I used the spacers that were included with the Progresive springs. The fork caps are 35 mm and I only had a 36 mm socket but it worked fine. I had every size larger and smaller than the 1 3/8" in standard sizes, but didn't have that size socket. DOH! I also had no problem pushing down on the caps to get the threads started, got it on the first attempt both sides. I had heard everyone elses horror stories but it was nice and easy. Just use a 1/2 inch ratchet or breaker bar with a long extension so you can align and stabilize the socket as you push down. I'll take a longer ride this weekend and report back. I also recently installed a Corbin Hollywood Solo so I should finally have a nice, comfortableriding Nightster! Woo Hoo. The only mod left now is getting back to changing the exhaust. Argh.
Cruiser
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 179
Likes: 0
From: Tampa, FL
RE: progressive fork spring installation
Just remove the 4 bolts and speedo bracket that hold the handlebars on and lay the bars down over the fork stem bolt in front of the gas tank. Lay a couple old towels over this area to protect the paint.
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drumer66
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