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So my shifter linkage fell off on the highway

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Old Jun 6, 2015 | 08:53 AM
  #11  
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Happened to me too. In the POURING down rain, on the interstate..... In the Ghetto

Didn't wanna stop in the ghetto, and had to maintain speed.... Didn't want to get ran over... And I was in 6th gear and couldn't down shift....

I coasted into a dealer - AFTER I smoked my clutch. Shift linkage was under warranty- smoking the clutch cost a little north of $500 if my memory is accurate.
 
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Old Jun 6, 2015 | 09:10 AM
  #12  
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I replaced mine with heim joints from McMaster-Carr, and used the original threaded rod. That was 24K+ miles ago. I stashed the OEM's in my tool bag, in case I can help somebody on the side of the road with a broken one.

Here's the link: http://www.mcmaster.com/#4483t231/=xi8bf8

'fooz
 

Last edited by harfooz; Jun 6, 2015 at 09:18 AM.
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Old Jun 6, 2015 | 09:54 AM
  #13  
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That is one of the first things I change on my bikes soon after I take delivery.
 
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Old Jun 6, 2015 | 10:05 AM
  #14  
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I have seen enough of these threads over the years. Makes me wonder why does HD not offer a better system?
 
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Old Jun 6, 2015 | 10:12 AM
  #15  
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Even when you get the heim joints make sure the thread is well into each end and use blue loctite. Have had them strip (aluminum HD shaft) and had to limp it home. Then drilled through rod and used set screws to keep in place. Still carry an extra.
 

Last edited by mikelikesbikes; Jun 6, 2015 at 10:16 AM.
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Old Jun 6, 2015 | 10:22 AM
  #16  
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Did the heim joints few weeks ago on advice of others here. Got the joints on Amazon and chrome hardware bolts/nuts/washers at Menards. Stock linkage and watch for interference with cooling fins
 
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Old Jun 6, 2015 | 10:30 AM
  #17  
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Originally Posted by NDBadlands4-2
I have seen enough of these threads over the years. Makes me wonder why does HD not offer a better system?
Oh, they do offer a better system, they just want to sell it after the bike purchase along with some possible labor.
 
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Old Jun 6, 2015 | 10:33 AM
  #18  
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Many hardware stores carry Heims along with fastener supply outlets and auto parts stores. And for pennies compared to some of the links provided.
Chrome is harder to find but stainless is easy-peasy.
 
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Old Jun 6, 2015 | 10:34 AM
  #19  
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Originally Posted by fullautomike
Do you need other hardware like acorn nuts and a stud for the shifter linkage too?
......... nah, just some wire

 
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Old Jun 6, 2015 | 10:35 AM
  #20  
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And don't forget to check the snugness of the bolts that cinch the levers down onto the tranny shaft in the back and the heel/toe shaft up front once in awhile. I had one of those come loose on me ( on a Sunday morning, in Hillsville, Va, on top of a friggin' mountain, 90 miles from home.)
 
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