Fix for 'Clunk' - progressive monotube fork inserts.

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Oct 15, 2011 | 11:49 PM

Big M

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Cruiser

Joined: Aug 2009

Posts: 146

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From: Lake Havasu City, AZ

Fix for 'Clunk' - progressive monotube fork inserts.

I installed the Progressive "Lowered Monotube Cartridge Fork Kit" for 1997-201 HD FLH/FLT. I thought we read the instructions well, but when I rode the bike any pressure on the front brake would bottom out the forks resulting in a loud 'clunk'. After riding it for a few days (silly me, I thought it might magically get better) I called Progressive. The only thing they told me was to add the 4th pre-load shim (3 pre-load shims per side are recommended in the instructions, but it comes with 8 - 4 per side).

My buddy Bill (who helped with the install) tore it down, and after a detailed examination discovered I had installed the Progressive supplied "bottoming cup" in the left fork lower. This part is intended ONLY for '02-'05 FLHT/FLT. He re-installed the factory "bottoming cup" and added the 4th pre-load shim (as per Progressive's tech recommendation).

Fork/Bike rides GREAT now. No 'clunk', no bottoming, and smooth ride.

Hope this helps all who were experiencing the same problem.

Oct 16, 2011 | 02:00 PM

vichendrix

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Joined: Nov 2010

Posts: 77

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From: Orangeville Ont Canada

I was thinking of the same kit when i do chrome lowers i have a 2011 ultra wanted to lower one or two inches how did you find ride as compared to stock much stifer and harder ? Anyone else who has done this really lookin for some input

Oct 16, 2011 | 02:09 PM

stupid_rope

Elite HDF Member

Joined: Apr 2008

Posts: 4,196

Likes: 14

From: Satans Asshole

Firmer is the word i would use. Like a tight race suspension. Love mine, it's dropped 2"

Oct 16, 2011 | 02:09 PM

Fire-Medic

Road Warrior

Joined: Jun 2010

Posts: 1,960

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From: Miami, FL

Quote:

Originally Posted by vichendrix

I'm finishing up with the "drop in" kit today or tomorrow on my 2011 Ultra and can let you know. 2" drop for me as well, went with new wheels (bigger), hopefully it all works out.

Oct 17, 2011 | 11:46 AM

Big M

Thread Starter

Cruiser

Joined: Aug 2009

Posts: 146

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From: Lake Havasu City, AZ

Love the ride, but wouldn't lower it more then 1". It gets a bit close with the 1" drop, 2" and the fender would make contact (on my bike).

Oct 17, 2011 | 02:10 PM

lionsm13

Seasoned HDF Member

Joined: Oct 2007

Posts: 56,052

Likes: 88,770

From: Western South Dakota

Used the stock heighth monos for my SG and it does not dive anymore..
A noticeable improvement over the stock springs..fer sure..

Oct 17, 2011 | 03:30 PM

dbell66253

Seasoned HDF Member

Joined: Dec 2009

Posts: 5,240

Likes: 10

From: South Florida

Quote:

Originally Posted by vichendrix

I installed mine 11mos and about 13k miles ago, I haven't had any issues, and it rides a lot better than stock, and as advertised brake dive 95% gone, btw mine is -2".