Chrome Shift Linkage
Cruiser
Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 223
Likes: 0
From: Jackson Louisiana
Just purchased 2 chrome helm joints from Ebay. One 3/8" ID chrome toilet supply line. A hack saw and a dab of silicone to prevent rattles and you have a new $10 chrome shifter linkage. I think it even shifts better and looks great.
Tourer
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 358
Likes: 2
From: Swansea,SC
Post a pic of it please.
Road Warrior
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 1,573
Likes: 138
From: StL, MO. USA
There seem to be some very 'passionate' opinions regarding this whole shift linkage situation.
In response to the original question. I have personally used the cover for the OEM shift linkage on two different twin cam bike. Neither presented any issue, and were an affordable/simple way to dress-up the bike. One was on the bike for 4+ years, then 'donated' to a buddy for his bike when I upgraded to a more swanky part. The other has been in place for about 3 years without issue.
Also, on 4 touring models that I deal with regularly (mine, and family & friend's bikes) I have not seen an OEM linkage failure. Not saying it doesn't happen. Just that I haven't seen one fail.
Lastly, someone posted about issues with the Neutral Light after installation of shift linkage...the electrical contact for the light is located on the other side of the transmission, and is triggered by transmission internals. Unless you have the linkage very tight, or very loose - to the point of excessive tension - the linkage would not have any impact on the Neutral Light. If excessive tension (mis adjustment) were the case, you would likely also be experiencing shifting issues.
In response to the original question. I have personally used the cover for the OEM shift linkage on two different twin cam bike. Neither presented any issue, and were an affordable/simple way to dress-up the bike. One was on the bike for 4+ years, then 'donated' to a buddy for his bike when I upgraded to a more swanky part. The other has been in place for about 3 years without issue.
Also, on 4 touring models that I deal with regularly (mine, and family & friend's bikes) I have not seen an OEM linkage failure. Not saying it doesn't happen. Just that I haven't seen one fail.
Lastly, someone posted about issues with the Neutral Light after installation of shift linkage...the electrical contact for the light is located on the other side of the transmission, and is triggered by transmission internals. Unless you have the linkage very tight, or very loose - to the point of excessive tension - the linkage would not have any impact on the Neutral Light. If excessive tension (mis adjustment) were the case, you would likely also be experiencing shifting issues.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 20,616
Likes: 4,440
From: anacoco, la
What is wrong with the stock rod put heim joints on it a whole $20.00
LXM LXF Rod Ends | Self-Lubricating Nylafiber MATRIX Race | Rodend Supply
LXM LXF Rod Ends | Self-Lubricating Nylafiber MATRIX Race | Rodend Supply
https://www.hdforums.com/forum/touri...nkage-mod.html
Many say they break? I just replaced the stock one on my 2003 E-Glide last year. ONLY because I don't like the look of stock, or the cover that goes over them.
Last edited by Johnny Wolf; Apr 17, 2016 at 11:46 PM.
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