Installed a billet shift rod today...

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Jul 25, 2007 | 08:25 AM

GasCan

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Joined: Apr 2007

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From: Canada

Installed a billet shift rod today...

Well after reading a lot of ads and posts concerning stock shifter rods and what was available for custom shift rods, I pulled the pin and bought a billet shaft that has "Bad to the Bone" engraved on it. The quality of plating and the finish are awesome and I can't beleive how much firmer the shift is with this product added. It took all of the slack and mush-i-ness out of the shift where now my shifts are tighter and more controlled. Finding neutral is also easier than ever. If you have the chance to buy one from Gordons HD Partsup in Quebec, do it. Great product and awesomeguy to deal with. He cares about what he does, and walks the talk! I'll post some pics later tonight.

http://gordonshdparts.safeshopper.com/

Jul 25, 2007 | 08:54 AM

HogBoy

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From: Olympia, Washington

RE: Installed a billet shift rod today...

Yeah, let's see the pics.

Jul 25, 2007 | 12:26 PM

Domestic Violence

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RE: Installed a billet shift rod today...

so youre saying that an aftermarket shift linkage IMPROVED the shifting?

Jul 25, 2007 | 05:48 PM

iclick

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From: Baton Rouge, LA

RE: Installed a billet shift rod today...

Quote:

ORIGINAL: Domestic Violence
so youre saying that an aftermarket shift linkage IMPROVED the shifting?

For the same reasons given by Glideman (questionable stock parts), I installed a polished stainless rod a few months ago given to me by my neighbor for helping install a PCIII on his bike. I bought two heim joints to complete the package, which are more reliable than the stock ball-and-socket joints, and installed it. I didn't expect a difference in shifter feel, but I got it, finding it more positive and precise. I suppose the heim joints are the reason for the improvement, and unlike the old setup these joints should never break.

There's nothing wrong with the stock rod, just the ball-and-socket end joints. You can buy two heim joints on Ebay for $20, and that's the cheap way to get a more reliable shifter without spending more on a custom rod. OTOH, I've seen some nice chrome rods of various styles with two heim joints for <$60, so that's an option.