Just got some progressive HD 412's for my 2012 custom sporty.
Does the top bolt have a nut welded to the frame on the inside? I can not get my fingers up in there. Or do I have to take additional pieces off to get to it?

I know...I know....shop manual....its on my list!
But I'm tight on cash right now.

 

Nope, there's a nut up there inside the fender, but it is easier to reach if you jack the rear end up.

 

i lied on my back under the rear wheel looking up and reached in and was able to access that nutt. and no it's not welded in.

 

I made the mistake of trying to replace the shocks one at a time without a lift. Didnt work out so well. I had to have a buddy hold the rear end up just to get the new shock on. It would of been so much easier with a lift. My 2012 48 had a solid mount nut welded to the frame mount.

 

It does look like it could be solid welded to frame. And if not I would have to take off the fender, just to get to the other side of frame. hmmm

 

I see or feel no nut on the inside of fender.

 

I'm pretty sure that my 08 has threads in the frame.
Next time try using a tie down strap to compress the shock.

 

Top bolt just threads into the frame, no nut.

 

Thank You all for your replies. Can't wait to get them on.