Question re Heim joints & shift rod...
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Road Warrior
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 1,510
Likes: 23
From: Connecticut
Question re Heim joints & shift rod...
Hello all -
I want to upgrade the shift linkage on my '07 Road Glide by installing Heim joints in place of the factory-installed ball joints.
I'll use the factory-original rod between the new joints.
Not a big job... BUT....
... I want the new setup to be "adjustable". By that I mean I want to be able to:
- loosen the nuts on the rod
- turn the rod in one direction to move the shift levers away from each other, or...
- turn it the other direction to move the levers towards one another
... and thus, adjust my heel/toe assembly back and forth (without having to re-arrange the splines).
Here is the right-hand Heim joint I'll use:
http://www.mcmaster.com/#6072k165/=st4lpq
Here is a left-hand thread version of the same Heim joint:
http://www.mcmaster.com/#6072k166/=st4lt0
Questions:
Regarding the factory HD shift rod, does it have "same direction" threads on both ends?
Or... are the threads "reversed" on one end?
I looked at the rod, the threads -look like- they're going in the same direction, but I may be missing something.
I'm thinking that if the threads are NOT reversed on one end, two right-hand-thread Heim joints won't give me that adjustability option. In that case I'll get one right-hand and one left-hand thread.
But if the HD rod -has- reversed threads, all I need may be two right-hand Heim joints.
Which is right?
I want to upgrade the shift linkage on my '07 Road Glide by installing Heim joints in place of the factory-installed ball joints.
I'll use the factory-original rod between the new joints.
Not a big job... BUT....
... I want the new setup to be "adjustable". By that I mean I want to be able to:
- loosen the nuts on the rod
- turn the rod in one direction to move the shift levers away from each other, or...
- turn it the other direction to move the levers towards one another
... and thus, adjust my heel/toe assembly back and forth (without having to re-arrange the splines).
Here is the right-hand Heim joint I'll use:
http://www.mcmaster.com/#6072k165/=st4lpq
Here is a left-hand thread version of the same Heim joint:
http://www.mcmaster.com/#6072k166/=st4lt0
Questions:
Regarding the factory HD shift rod, does it have "same direction" threads on both ends?
Or... are the threads "reversed" on one end?
I looked at the rod, the threads -look like- they're going in the same direction, but I may be missing something.
I'm thinking that if the threads are NOT reversed on one end, two right-hand-thread Heim joints won't give me that adjustability option. In that case I'll get one right-hand and one left-hand thread.
But if the HD rod -has- reversed threads, all I need may be two right-hand Heim joints.
Which is right?
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Mar 2012
Posts: 100,455
Likes: 19,811
From: Centennial, CO
Both ends are right hand thread as far as I know, at least on a Softail's shift rod. With both being right hand, I don't see how a left hand thread Heim joint is going to help. But if you were to loosen the front adjuster lock nut, you should be able to adjust it in or out that way, I think, which would move your foot lever up or down for fine adjustment. It's late and I may not be thinking correctly though.
Last edited by QC; Jul 12, 2014 at 10:10 PM.
Try this site : www.midwestcontrol.com/part.php?id=301 I used this to build a few linkages. MOCO stuff way to thin. They have some chrome rods too, nice and thick! Just the way the wife likes em' FT
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 3,328
Likes: 15
From: Pacific Northwest
It's equally adjustable either way, man. It just takes a little longer when you have to remove one end from the levers.
You could make your own out of some stainless rod and the heims you listed. You'll just need a left hand die for that end of the rod.
You could make your own out of some stainless rod and the heims you listed. You'll just need a left hand die for that end of the rod.
Tourer
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 389
Likes: 3
From: Third Coast TX
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6th Gear
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 11
Likes: 0
From: Merrit Island, Florida
Yes, Harley shift rods have standard R/H threads on both ends. You are correct that you would need a rod (and Heims) with one side R/H threaded and the other with L/H threads to do what you're describing .... basically turns it into a turnbuckle.
I agree with Fathertime500 on the Heims from Midwest Controls. I also mess around with building custom shift linkages for a hobby and I use those Heims. They are more expensive, but are all stainless with a Teflon bearing race and give a very positive feel. Any Heim is a big improvement over the stock Harley setup and the McMaster ones you found would work fine .... Just need to build a rod with a R/H and L/H thread.
If you really want to go this way and need help with the rod, shoot me an email ... I'd be happy to make you one. Ride safe.
I agree with Fathertime500 on the Heims from Midwest Controls. I also mess around with building custom shift linkages for a hobby and I use those Heims. They are more expensive, but are all stainless with a Teflon bearing race and give a very positive feel. Any Heim is a big improvement over the stock Harley setup and the McMaster ones you found would work fine .... Just need to build a rod with a R/H and L/H thread.
If you really want to go this way and need help with the rod, shoot me an email ... I'd be happy to make you one. Ride safe.
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Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 5,105
Likes: 16
From: Blaine, WA
- it would move the levers up or down but they will always be same in relation to one another unless you realign them on the shaft.
Stellar HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 3,002
Likes: 86
From: Charlotte Metro
I went with this quality machined piece from Giovine Machine Works in Fla year or so ago looks good with 5/16" chrome heim joints and resonably priced. Made in USA!
http://www.ebay.com/itm/3-4-Black-Si...03e7ce&vxp=mtr
http://www.ebay.com/itm/3-4-Black-Si...03e7ce&vxp=mtr
Last edited by acchd; Jul 16, 2014 at 03:29 PM.