Chrome Shift Linkage
Cruiser
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 185
Likes: 0
From: Chatsworth, Ontario, Canada
Yep mine fell apart too, zip tied it back together till I got home. removed it and tried to fit the ball and socket joint. Took a punch to the side of the socket joint after putting the ball into it. It did not work, got into 2nd gear and it come apart again. Replace both ends with helm joints. Bought them from HD dealer, after market Drag Specialties, here in Canada.
Elite HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 3,948
Likes: 54
From: The Burgh
You can't use a HD linkage cover with heim joints, which is the first thing you should replace on your bike cause the stock ones are gonna break sooner or later. Once you've replaced the 2 crappy ends by heim joints, polish the stock linkage, he'll shine as much as chrome and it's free, or go to Home Depot, buy a straight piece of chrome sink water line and run the stock linkage inside.
Road Master
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 866
Likes: 18
From: Richmond Hill, Ontario
I've never had a failure, but I know someone who has. It doesn't seem very common, but hey, anything can break. I replaced mine with the HD slotted linkage because I like the look. I think the stock linkages are pretty bland and an upgrade is an easy way to dress up an area that is highly visible.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 10,946
Likes: 818
From: Nevada
I agree. The stock linkage is junk. A linkage with heim joints provides a firmer feel at the lever and looks better.
Road Master
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 992
Likes: 2
From: TN
There is an aftermarket ss linkage that has a simple and somewhat unique install...you might want to google it. I saw it when I was researching that issue last year.
Grand HDF Member
Joined: Nov 2012
Posts: 3,784
Likes: 100
From: Pasadena TX
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Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 3,328
Likes: 15
From: Pacific Northwest
Easy enough to make your own linkage with some S/S round stock, a couple of Heims, and a threading die. It can be polished to a near chrome shine and you'll have the pride of knowing you built a custom linkage all by yourself.
Also there seems to be some snarky-ness regarding the stock linkage (that some "have never had a problem with"). You will - it's just a matter of time. The weak point with the stock set-up is the ball joint at the of the shaft.
Also there seems to be some snarky-ness regarding the stock linkage (that some "have never had a problem with"). You will - it's just a matter of time. The weak point with the stock set-up is the ball joint at the of the shaft.
H-D part number # 33184-98A - - $89.95 it's chrome & has heim joints on both ends.
Anything you do make sure you get rid the stock shifter linkage, they are prone to brakeage.
Or you can go to ( www.rodendsupply.com ) Order 2 heim joints end size - LXF - 5/16X5/16-24
and replace the ends yourself.
Anything you do make sure you get rid the stock shifter linkage, they are prone to brakeage.
Or you can go to ( www.rodendsupply.com ) Order 2 heim joints end size - LXF - 5/16X5/16-24
and replace the ends yourself.
Last edited by OldPhat; Mar 20, 2016 at 07:17 PM.