air ride problem
Grand HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 3,820
Likes: 587
From: Michigan
You don't have anything wrong with the schrader fill valve. It's designed for the screw on suspension pump which will work with what you have. Get the suspension pump & quit screwing around trying to get an air hose to pressurize it. All the air hose will do is blow out every connection in the system. The pump screws on, seals to the threads before pressing on the schrader actuator spring/seat; closes the schrader actuator seat before it unseals the threads.
Road Master
Joined: Jul 2010
Posts: 1,045
Likes: 102
From: Waukesha, WI
The pump is $50 from HD and even includes a case. The pump increases pressure 1psi per stroke and it's a no-loss design. Depending on the year, max pressure for the shocks is either 30 or 50 psi, consult the chart in the owners manual for the correct pressure based on load. If you're still unhappy with the air ride, get rid of it and put on some Legend Revo-As.
Grand HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 4,012
Likes: 298
From: Central Fl
I had a similar problem on my RG. Just bend the bracket to your desired position. Most likely will need to remove the saddle bag in order to bend the bracket. After that I did find a better solution. A set of Ohlins from Howard. A tad pricey but well worth the investment. Small change,HUGE improvement.
Supporter
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 15,787
Likes: 5,612
From: along the shore of Mishigami
The air line size is 5/32" OD on my 2013 RGU, verified with Ronnies parts listings. The shocks can be over inflated real fast with high volume air source, the little hand pumps are made for low volume/low pressure.
Last edited by seniorsuperglideE8; Dec 2, 2018 at 09:54 PM.
Road Warrior
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 1,485
Likes: 232
From: Ohio
This is how I've done it for many years. Nothing wrong with this method. As long as you don't forget to turn it down.
Subject says it all, "air ride problem." Get rid of the air ride and you will be happy. At least that's what I did. Went with Ohlins by Howard and never looked back. Comfortable 100% of the time, no leaks, and no forfeiting comfort and control when I need to adjust for additional riding weight from passenger, gear or both.
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Grand HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 3,820
Likes: 587
From: Michigan
You may be able to add air to your suspension w/o blowing it out because you've lowered the pressure to your air hose, but this method provides no way of verifying the actual operating pressure of your suspension. When you press the air hose onto the schrader valve & when you remove it from the schrader valve you have air leakage. That's why, for repeatable settings, the proper tool should be used.
Road Warrior
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 1,485
Likes: 232
From: Ohio
You may be able to add air to your suspension w/o blowing it out because you've lowered the pressure to your air hose, but this method provides no way of verifying the actual operating pressure of your suspension. When you press the air hose onto the schrader valve & when you remove it from the schrader valve you have air leakage. That's why, for repeatable settings, the proper tool should be used.