DOC HARLEY: SOFTAIL SHOCK ABSORBERS

Doc Harley from the Service Clinic at Low Country Harley-Davidson to help you with the health of your motorcycle! This week he talks about adjusting shock absorbers on pre-17 Softails.
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Doc Harley is a motorcycle technician at Low Country Harley-Davidson with over thirty years working on motorcycles. Over the years at the dealership he has worked on Harley-Davidson, Buell, and Triumph motorcycles with a few other brands here and there from trade-ins. There are thousands of how-to videos out on youtube and other websites across the world. Doc’s goal is to help solve problems that people run into when using their service manual, share insights only found as a certified Harley® technician, and some of the tips he’s picked up over the years.
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4707 Dorchester Road
Charleston, SC 29405

[@franklaughton5649]

NEVER A WASTED DAY WHEN YOU LEARN SOMETHING NEW ! THANKS DOC

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thanks Frank….Doc

[@Big.Ron1]

Perfect timing. I did buy a used Softail and did run into exactly what you said. I am in the middle of going thru the bike front to back, top to bottom taking apart, cleaning, resealing, adjusting and so on. Thanks to this video I now understand the rear shocks on a Softail better. Thank you and be safe.

[@cajunspyder2000]

Thanks for the video. 2 years ago I traded a 2013 Breakout for a 2018 Heritage 114. When I still had my Breakout I went to the dealership to buy the adjustment wrench you just showed on your video and they called the Service Tech over and he told me it wasn't adjustable. Now I know it was. I would bounce off the seat on big bumps. I guess I should find another dealer. I have had lots of issues with their service and this just adds to the aggravation knowing I rode that bike for years like that when it was adjustable.

[@johnphillipsjr7238]

My local dealer told me the same thing. I said my owners manual says different. It took two other service techs to get the right answer and sell me the wrench to properly adjust the shocks. Scares me to have them perform any actual work on my bike when they don’t even know the Softails are adjustable.

[@darrenwerner1829]

Thanks Doc. Answered all my questions and didn't give any useless information like so many other people.

[@adamperez1478]

agree so many videos with so much unnecessary talking

[@stevecastillo6826]

Thanks Doc for that last bit of information about getting a Softail with a lowering kit to make it stiffer because that's exactly what I have and that's exactly what I'm going to do

[@61espo]

Thanks for the great info Doc! My shock absorbers weren’t even close to being set to my weight of 215... thanks for explaining it and making it easier for guys like me to do!

[@GarageBuddys]

excellent then I had done everything right 💪 thanks DOC a greeting from Italy

[@RobTheMechanik]

This was the best video to help me adjust the rear suspension of my 92 Fatboy. Thank you!

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Glad it helped…..Doc

[@andrewhedgecock3438]

Had my 04 Softail for 15 years now, found this video brilliant in terms of explaining the shocks. Never touched them but now overhauling the bike and wanted some decent info on shocks. Respect for the great no BS knowledge sharing.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thanks…..Doc

[@matt8863]

It's so weird how this now seems so foreign to me...I lowered two early 90's era Softail's, and cannot remember one single step of the procedure...Don't get old folks.

[@adamperez7427]

I have become a big fan of your KZbin channel. I come to you for all my Harley needs. I’m very comfortable working on my 2010 Fatboy by using you commentary and how to do video. Thank you.

[@davidclegg4718]

I really enjoy and appreciate all of your videos, even the ones that don't apply to my model Harley. Your explanations are easy to understand. I was wondering if you would do a video regarding motor mounts. Keep up the great work.

[@garyzanghi9272]

This is funny, July 24 i bought a 2016 heritage Sunday i had my local HD shop adjust it to my 250lbs . No more bottoming out Thanks Doc

[@RenegadesGarage]

Doc.. Very well explained as always. Thanks for sharing.

[@michaelgreen7028]

Another very good video, Sir. Thanks again Doc!

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thanks for your support…..Doc

[@CabinGuy]

Thanks Doc, you taught me something new!

[@dtork47]

Never have touched my ‘05 softail shock! Guess it’s a good thing I never got over 170! Thanks again Doc.

[@thomascarpenter7415]

More excellent wisdom from Doc !! Thank you 😊

[@jfarrell85]

Use the tangs of the SHOCK ADJUSTMENT SPANNER 94448­82B in the holes in the rear shock canister to turn the canister CLOCKWISE UNTIL IT STOPS. This position is the minimum rider weight position. Mark the face of the canister for reference. Turn the canister COUNTERCLOCKWISE the number of turns calculated for the total load. Shock Preload for modles FXSB, FLSTN, FLS (all except APC, AUS), FLSS (all except AUS), FLSTFB (all except HDI, ENG, IND, BRZ), FLSTFBS (all except (HDI, ENG) RIDER WEIGHT* TURNS** Less than 185 lb 84 kg 0 Turns 185-­235 lb 84­107 kg 1 Turns 235-­285 lb 107­129 kg 2 Turns 285­-340 lb 129­154 kg 3 Turns 340 lb 154 kg to maximum added weight 4 Turns Shock Preload for modles FLSTC, FLSTF, FLS (APC, AUS), FLSS (AUS), FLSTFB (HDI, ENG, IND, BRZ), FLSTFBS (HDI, ENG) RIDER WEIGHT* TURNS** Less than 165 lb 75 kg 0 Turns 165­-220 lb 75­100 kg 1 Turns 220­-275 lb 100­125 kg 2 Turns 275­-335 lb 125­152 kg 3 Turns 335­-395 lb 152­179 kg 4 Turns 395 lb 179 kg to maximum added weight 5 Turns

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thanks for posting John....Doc

[@darrellb6583]

Thanks you helped us out a lot

[@robertcrash2899]

Mine is a 06 softail standard, I'm 288 is 5 full turns to much

[@lancasterjim2441]

Awe man thanks so much doc your always so informative we can’t wait to come down and meet you 👍🏻

[@mlunden11]

Thanks doc. Ur the best. Straight and to the point. Thanks again

[@evanmorris3156]

Thanks for the great video which makes it easy to see how the adjustment works. I tried it on the jiffy stand and for the life of me I don't see how to make that work. Put the bike up on a jack and it was easy peasy. Thanks again!

[@bobgil3464]

Good idea thanks.

[@redgeypedersen41]

Thanks Doc, your knowledge on Harley maintenance is well appreciated.

[@dominiccutugno5734]

Thank you well explained

[@SilverFox-fq7xi]

Good info thank you for the explanation. Cleared up the mud a little.

[@Johnr37us]

I have been racing dirt bikes for years so I understand that way to adjust preloaded on a motorcycle. But for the average person you have done a good job in explaining this process. I have a new CVO Limited and it’s a lot easier ( as you know)to adjust the preload on the touring models.

[@guitarlover889]

Cheers Doc from Down under Australia , helped me a lot

[@davidv.780]

Great video , thanks Doc Harley.

[@fredaustrinojr8186]

thanks doc got 1987 flst hairitage softail an everything almost all seams defferent.

[@dapezent]

I did a search on how to tell if your shocks are worn out and need replacement and came across this helpful tip. Thank you for the valuable information. I still can’t find info about my question though, perhaps you could do a vid about it sometime? Or maybe commenters could point me in the right direction please? Thanks.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Shocks are all about control. They control the movement of your rear tire and swing-arm up and down over road conditions. If you have adjusted the shock absorbers to manufacturer specifications and the rear wheel/swing-arm bounces with no control the shocks are warn out.

[@Tommy.McLean]

I've been a Harley trained tech for 13 years and own my own shop now, and to this day no one has been able to explain to me the difference in softail shocks with different part numbers IE - 00, - 04, - 08 et cetera. They are the same length and look the same but different part number.

[@awedihdaira2786]

Hi doc hope you are well , question here please ... Can i use an old style clutch cable (twin cam) on a 2018 Milwaukee 8 model Softail??? Many thanks 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

I'm not sure. I have to admit I have only installed cables that are tested and fitted for your 2018. You could do a little research by going to aftermarket cable makers. Look up your bike cable then a Twin Cam cable and see if they match….Doc

[@tonyj8947]

I'm glad that all I have to do is take the seat off and use the adjustment wrench to turn the adjustment mechanism clockwise or counterclockwise.

[@bobclapper2672]

Thanks for sharing your Expertise !!

[@dustinsnyder5149]

Now does this raise seat height? I have been having an issue I’ve been scraping my exhaust and I would like to bring the rear end up to avoid that

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

No does not raise seat height just makes suspension soft to stiff….Doc

[@deweydodo6691]

Hey Doc, very good to know as I am looking at a 2008, first thing i asked was where is the shocks? Second question is what are they set at?

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Great questions in understanding your bike….Doc

[@jamesmartin8999]

Hello doc harley...have 2010 fatboy after riding for few hours have very sore back for a few days...i also have 1942wla and never get any back problems unless hit desent pot hole.... can not see why fatboy gives me bad back...have had since new so no idea shock setup but after viewing your video will check to see weather they are setup to hard,hopefully they are not on softest setting....love watching your videos very well explained and learn so much..regards jimmy.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thank you Jimmy. Your 1942 wla is on my bucket list to ride...Doc

[@nuffdoggiggey4103]

My 06 night train bought new and lowered, I hit a pot hole it about broke my spin like you say, I haven't rode it much in the past 4 years it seems very very stiff even my front end ..like I have no shocks at all.. so you saying with a lowering kit I need to make it more stiff? Did I here you correct?

[@ihatesjws669]

FYI, the center of the shock adjustment tool can also be used as a 1 1/6 inch wrench. So you really only need the 9/16 inch wrench and the tool to adjust.

[@anthrophob]

1/16 ! Seems like nobody knows how to put it correctly. But what bothers me more is the fact that HD manual doesn't mention it. Torque - yes, wrench size - no. Is it so difficult to complete it with this useful info??!

[@ronprice2127]

Thank you ,from BOSTON

[@patrickfreeman205]

Great video. Just what I was looking for.

[@stevecastillo6826]

Doc Harley, I do have a question? And my question to you is I noticed in the video your shocks on the motorcycle are install just the opposite of mine and I do have a lowering kit does that make a difference if they're installed the opposite way.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Nice to see you noticed. HD changed the direction of Softtail shocks with the Twin Cam. Adjustment is still the same….Doc

[@stevecastillo6826]

Thank you so much, keep up the grade videos they help me all the way through the process of rebuilding this custom chopper.

[@davidyancey179]

Well explained Doc. No problem with my adjustment, got it perfect. 👍👍

[@schachat01]

Hi Doc-thanks for the great video! I came across a 2008 FLSTSB (no rear lowering kit) today. I suspect that someone who installed these shocks failed to lock in the 9/16" spanner to avoid the shaft rotating (probably adjusted on the bench and reinstalled the shocks on the frame)-hence it is now so short that is no longer possible to insert the special HD tool and 9/16" spanner) to adjust the preload as per the HD instruction. I think the only way to sort out this dilemma would be to physically remove the shocks and recalibrate them and reinstall. What is your suggestion? Many thanks Arnold

[@bobgil3464]

What did you end up doing?

[@craigversetti5700]

Had to learn this the hard way years back !!

[@adam6ism]

Love your videos Doc and always very helpful thank you

[@NoName-dl5tl]

Thank you really so good information Doc, regards from Mexico.

[@bobgil3464]

Tiene nombre?

[@jonnycando]

Once you visualize what those shocks are actually doing it make sense how to turn them to get what you need of them!

[@southernrebel]

Do those shocks ever need cleaning, lubing, ect, on an 07 heritage?

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Nothing official. Yes I check the mounting bolts. Sometimes when I hear squeaks I’ll spray lube into the canister because the spring has no lube….Doc

[@lloydhorton4290]

Thanks doc informative! 08 heritage.

[@Dustin359]

I have a 2010 fat boy lo. I went to adjust them, found that the two shocks weren't evenly preloaded (never been touched before), so I went full counterclockwise on both (I'm 230), and left it. Ride was much improved being both at the same. Haven't touched since, as it was a major pain to do without a lift or motorcycle jack.

[@bobgil3464]

Did you just do one rotation on each shock?

[@Dustin359]

@@bobgil3464 I think so... I can't remember for sure. The bike was totaled since (and almost me with it)

[@bobgil3464]

@@Dustin359 wow sad to hear about the bike glad you are all right.

[@Dustin359]

@@bobgil3464 broke a couple vertebrae, left hip socket and a couple bones in my left arm. full face helmet kept me conscious. I replaced the fat boy with a Road Glide.

[@bobgil3464]

@@Dustin359 I like the new 120 Anniversary CVO Road Glide Ultra. They had one on display at BikeWeek. Unfortunately don’t have $52000. Man you were messed up lucky to be alive.

[@JLH1956]

I had my Harley dealer install the lowering kit. They never asked me my weight, but they set it up for myself alone and with a rider. With two we don't bottom out, with one, it's really smooth unless you hit a noticeable pot hole. Rides smooth, tracks straight. 09 softail custom.

[@adamperez1478]

thanks always come here for good videos

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thank you for taking time to watch...Doc

[@tonygiuliano5561]

thanks doc with my wife on the back of my 2015 deluxe it use to bottom out since i did the adjustment on the shocks its made it i much better bike to ride thanks doc awesome ............

[@bobgil3464]

How many turns to adjust for the increase weight?

[@richardballew8958]

Can you explain how to adjust a Softail with a lowering kit? I have a 2012 FLSTF Fat Boy. Previous owner had a lowering kit installed, he was about 5'5", 160 lbs. I'm 6', 230 lbs. I'd like to raise the ride height. I wish I could get original stub shafts, but can't find them. Thanks for any advice!

[@matthewnorwell5353]

Can I add preload but also raise the shock by shortening the threaded bar doc

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

At first I wanted to post NO. But then you added a threaded part? Most after market threaded parts are for lowering. It might be able to adjust the other way. Just make sure you have enough still in the shocks to support your adjustment….Doc

[@matthewnorwell5353]

@@LowCountryHarleyDavidson arrrr so the half inch of threaded bar is for the pre load to wind up on doc , my stock shock has never been adjusted

[@thomasreyes2857]

Good work. But who was the goofball who brought the Harley in with the goldwing windscreen on it.😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@heidischramm-kl3sg]

So I got a set of ultima narrow shocks for my 88 heritage an so I shouldn't be able to make them absorb in my hand off the bike ??

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

I have no experience with Ultima shocks. Normally no…..Doc

[@joeharley87]

Great video. You did not say anything about the bike being lower or higher. Does ajusting the shock have any effect on the height of the bike?

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Not at all unless you count with the springs adjusted correctly the bike won't lower with the added weight.....Doc

[@Peakyblinders1970]

Hello Doc I bought the 2016 Heritage Classic 103 cui I am 207 lbs I just had my first longer Ride in the Mountains around I find her very firm on the back Do you recomand the softest adjustment for my weight Or will she get lower if softer adjustment? It already scratches early with the harder adjustment Thank you and greetings from germany

[@pallebosken8301]

Great vid! Thx.

[@royvinator7038]

Are the factory shocks on a 1993 heritage oil dampened and nitrogen charged? I'm looking to buy the bike and the rear suspension sets very low and feels like it's bottomed out . Thank you

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Sounds like the shocks have been modified to lower the bike. Lowering of coarse removes suspension full travel. Factory shocks are large heavy duty springs with oil dampening. Don’t let the shocks stop you from your dream bike

[@royvinator7038]

@@LowCountryHarleyDavidson Thank you for your reply, I really enjoy your channel !

[@darkforest3333]

con-fusing…when you say make the spring TOUGH do you mean put MORE tension on the spring? this is really crazy to try to understand. maybe explain which way a shock goes so that your ass isn’t torn up or you can’t walk because of back pain or stay on an old softail longer than 5-10 minutes at speeds over 40mph? Thanks

[@hhplymouth9473]

I bought a 2007 Heritage. I got it from the original owner. The shocks have never been adjusted. The ride is okay. I would like to get them adjusted. I think the ride could be quite a bit better. I rode a couple of newer softails and found out how much difference the adjustment can make. The first rode beautifully. The second rode terrible.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

I agree. Though the Early models have less adjustment than the M8s…Doc

[@tat2dchris1]

always great videos. always to the point.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

I appreciate that!..Doc

[@warthog5562]

I just bought a 08 softail custom and it sits about 1 inch too high for my stubby legs. Will adjusting the shocks lower the bike or do I need an actual lowering kit? Thank you.

[@peterbergeris6510]

Saw another video on softail shocks. With the special tool, the tool hooks into the holes in the plate at the end of the shaft.Also once you assemble the shock how do you torque the bolts when there is hardly any space.

[@tonyperkins7485]

Thanks Doc .from Auzz

[@shellbailey2517]

very clear to understand im on it thanks doc

[@Wheel-1]

Thats why it rides like a board \ .. / . Thanks Doc & LCHD

[@busterbrown4837]

Thanks Doc !

[@meseahunt]

What is a good replacement shock(s) cause the HD oem ones are horrible….

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

There are several. Progressive sells a good unit with external adjuster. Ferrell has introduced an air system. Legends has shocks and others. It really depends on your budget…..Doc

[@AICD1999]

Doc have you seen these Heritage shock adjuster snapped off in your shop?

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Only in extreme adjustment out for max lowering....Doc

[@stevecastillo6826]

The tool that you use to adjust the shock what is the other end of the tool used for

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Sometimes it can break loose the nut. Most of the time I use that end on adjusting other shocks….Doc

[@ScorpAce613]

Sorry, i have a question, i have a 2013 heritage softail and can not find an adjustment chart anywhere. I weigh about 280, any idea how much i should adjust mine?

[@geoffreyjens238]

I have the '84 and would like to have seen a video with those. They have a different mount and remote fluid canisters. My fluid lines between the canisters and shocks are dry rotted. Can't find a replacement for those lines anywhere.

[@richardballew8958]

My 2012 doesn't have that spot on the bolt for a 9/16" wrench. It has another 1 1/16" nut. Previous owner had it lowered 1" and was 6" shorter and 60#'s lighter. How do I adjust that?

[@dyates6380]

Great advice man. Thanks.

[@renner8668]

Just bought my first softail a 09 night train and the manual reads opposite of what you are saying, have i missed something ? By turning CCW that moves the adjuster towards the lock nut ? Wont making the shock longer lower the bike ?

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Adjusting the Springs does not lower the bike. It does relieve or add tension to the suspension. The shock is designed backwards than shocks on other models....Doc

[@camomanofcranham]

Hi Doc, great video, I'm looking at lowering my 14 fat boy here in the UK the shocks that HD fitted are 54508-00B can I fit 54549-04 to lower the bike an inch or so....

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

My choices here in the states: buy just the adjustable mounting screw 54001-04A. This replaces your stock screw and allows adjustment to 1". Or purchase the complete shock set 54651-05 which are chrome and lower the bike 3/4" with stiffer springs for the lesser travel.

[@cuttycorrigan4122]

Will you be going to th Great Bring it Home Parade Oct 5, hope meet and see you there.....

[@GarageBuddys]

Hello DOC, I have some questions, sorry but I translate wrong and I need some clarification. counterclockwise hardens the spring, clockwise softens the spring?

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Turning the adjuster plates OUT (towards the locknut) compresses the spring for a stiffer ride.....Doc

[@Peakyblinders1970]

Hello doc I plan to buy a Heritage softail Model 8/2016 103cui Is it the same adjustment for this model like you shown in the video? And under the Seat is for the 107 and 114 cui? Thx and greetings from germany

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Yes, it is....Doc

[@Peakyblinders1970]

@@LowCountryHarleyDavidson thank you very much for the quick response👍🏻✌🏻

[@gregdcasey]

Is it possible to adjust the height also at the shock?

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Only with an aftermarket part. The factory shock will not adjust height….doc

[@duanedmartinjr.61]

Use the 1 1/16" end of that spanner wrench for the shock adjusting locknuts, while using a boxed end wrench on the other end for better leverage...No need to customize any tools my friends...☺

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Can you get the bike high enough to use standard length wrenches?…Doc

[@duanedmartinjr.61]

@@LowCountryHarleyDavidson I can use the boxed end of a standard 1/2, 9/16 wrench w/o jacking the bike up to loosen the locknut. the spanners short enough and a little 1/2 wrench for some leverage is all you need to be honest, obviously jacking up the bike gives a person way more room. Try it, go to your bike and put the opening of the one side of the spanner wrench and see how easy it is to undo using a small, boxed end wrench for leverage, it hooks on the hooked side of the spanner wrench, so it doesn't slip off... the "U" shape at the one end of a spanner wrench is 1 1/16" gap, it was made for that purpose, make sure the two teeth are pointed out or they get caught up in the shock adjusting holes...I hope this helped...Duane

[@stlchuckhd]

👍 thank you

[@dramithai]

I have a 07 De Luxe and it is very low and i turn it Clockwise to make the absorbers short. Am I right? I just wanna it a little high to the ground... I turn 5 turns (clockwise) each side and seems nothing happened.....

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

The adjustment has nothing to do with height and everything to do with soft to hard ride. If your bike is very low, it probably has a lowering kit. Depending on manufacturer, that allows height adjustment….Doc

[@dramithai]

@@LowCountryHarleyDavidsonthanks !

[@richardvasconcellos8789]

The funny thing about this is the adjustment wrench doubles as a 1and 1 -16 and this guy is a professional come on

[@frankvliegen8648]

Hi, have a fatboy and a heritage with the 422 progressive springs. they where never set at exact setting for preload. i weigh 90 kg (about 200 pounds). i thought of giving them 1 turn counterclockwise because stock they are supplied at the softest setting. what do you think ?

[@bobgil3464]

A good place to start did you make the adjustment?

[@timw3241]

I have an 08 Fatboy and a 2000 Roadking. Was happy with the Fatboy's ride until I got the Roadking. Now the Fatboy seems to ride hard. Can I get a smoother ride from the Fatboy with a shock adjustment? Thanks

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Tim - I don’t believe so. If you have never adjusted the factory shocks, they come from the factory at the softest setting. Aftermarket adjustable Softtail socks might be the way to go. It will be tough to match your Road King air shock ride. Thanks ~ Doc

[@arthurcamacho3495]

Question: (2016 Fatboy S) So in conclusion, if you want to carry more weight, you will need to lower the bike to increase the preload by turning counter clockwise and making the shock longer. Is there a way or shock system to increase preload to carry two people WITHOUT lowering the bike.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

I obviously have not explained this correctly. No way does lowering the back end increase payload....a Softtail shock adjusts oppisite from standard shocks. Many aftermarket shocks offer an external adjuster for preload....Doc

[@RickDelmonico]

I'm confused! My locknut and adjustment location is on the front, not near the rear tire. I need to remove all of the preload. Which way do I turn the shock. The shock get longer when I sit on the bike. Does the shock get longer when you remove the preload or does the body of the shock move rearwards?

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

You must have an aftermarket pair of shock....Doc

[@RickDelmonico]

@@LowCountryHarleyDavidson No. The rear of my shock appears to extend out from the shock body when I turn the adjuster counter clockwise. However, that is just the shock body traveling forward on the shaft. The inside, which I cannot see, is compressing the spring i.e. more preload. A proper explanation would have saved me a lot of trouble. The preload was already minimal. I am 145 pounds, riding solo. This is what I would have preferred as an explanation; if the far side of the shock is all the way in (the weld bead is against the shock body), the preload is soft, if it is out (max 1/2"), more preload. The 2007 FLSTN has the locknut and adjuster on the forward end, the rear is eyelets.

[@hamadalmuhairi2313]

Very helpful thank you.

[@tobpitbull]

Doc... I have a 2006 fxst and do have the factory Harley Manuel... no chart for poundage in my Manuel? I’m about 220ish solo rider... took all the way in as you say and then took out 1 1/2 turns counter-clockwise... from zero... do you have a reference chart you can provide as stated in video?

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

I have looked and can not find. 1 1/2 is a good starting point. 4 turns is max. Thanks ~ Doc

[@bendaves77]

There's not another video that explains this as well as your video.. thanks

[@bobgil3464]

Explains well but never answers a question.

[@afghanyeti]

Great shop, always neat and clean. A professional works here.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thank you...Doc

[@Justjack613]

I keep watching this video. I still don't understand the concept. Underneath using the spanner wrench can't I just turn it once or twice clockwise for a stiffer ride? or counter for a softer ride? After loosening the locknut of course. Do I have to have it up on a lift?

[@aklthachem]

Hello how are you ? I am 5f 6 in i need to lower my 2007 harley softail classic would be greatly if you can give me some info Thanks

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

The best way to lower is front and rear at the same time. There are several aftermarket parts that will change the internal springs in the front to lower 1-1 half inches. And there are parts that replace factory mounts in the rear shocks that will allow you to lower. please keep in mind when lowering a bike your ground clearance will be less, especially in corners and the ride will slightly stiffer....Doc

[@alcanino2883]

Hi Doc, major question, how do you dis-assemble the Softail rear shocks? I have a set of progressives on my 1986 heritage, but nobody offers any shocks for the 1986 year frame, so that means I need to rebuild these/ replace the springs in them. please respond. thank you, A. C.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

First purchase a Harley-Davidson Service Manual. It will show you step by step. We use a hydraulic press and adapters to hold the shock. Please send an email to [e-mail] and I will send you a photo of an example. Thanks ~ Doc

[@schachat01]

Hi Doc-my 2008 Softail manual does not provide the preload adjustments according to the weight. Can you please provide me with a link where I can locate this weight to turns adjustment ratio on the rear suspension. many thanks.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

I found the info you need in a 2013 service manual. Please email [e-mail] and I will send you what I found. Thanks ~ Doc

[@donstipe7016]

So I got a 96 springer Softail a nd was on a ride today 9-4-22anx thought I broke frame and or suspension in the rear so after getting home and looking underneath of it and it looks like if you're sitting on it it would be the right side dual shock underneath actually it's the left side if you're sitting on it bolt broke off that holds the front that was the bolt broke off in the front that mounts the front of the shock to where whatever that is but is that a through and through bolt and nut or just a bolt that gets threaded into that sleeve somehow I'm brand new Harley owner as of one year ago about this old beast from a friend and got about 55,000 miles on it but she still runs good just had it on a dime now any help I can get with this question I just need to know because there's nothing to put a wrench or socket on to turn it out I'm going to have to easy out it out thanks doc Harley

[@donstipe7016]

Again is that a through bolt that goes through both of the shocks and the front where they mount I guess that's to the frame I think is it just one long bolt that goes through both of those and the frame area of the front of those shocks for the front tire so like a bolt and nut or is it a bolt from each side that threads into something needing to know if I need the easy out that out or just take it to a shop thanks

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Each shock has bolt in the front that threads into the frame in front and one bolt in the back that threads into the swingarm. So 4 bolts all together.....Doc

[@Ariel-hn1ge]

Hey doc, do these adjustments raise/lower the bike?

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

No...Doc