⚡Shift Shaft/ Front Shift Lever FIX Harley Davidson Touring⚡

[@sikbaggers]

👉👉 Make sure to like this video, subscribe to our channel, and hit the notification bell to stay updated with our latest content. Share your thoughts and questions in the comments section below.

[@ootis8733]

Does bike need to be in neutral?

[@ootis8733]

Good eve.. does bike need to be in neutral

[@sikbaggers]

@@ootis8733 it doesnt matter what gear you are in,..,.when you are not pushing on it falls into the same position. take a picture of it so you can put it back in the same position.

[@jefflarson6503]

It’s awesome to finally have somebody explain some thing and leave their attitude in their toolbox. Great videos man very very helpful.

[@sikbaggers]

Thank you Jeff...glad the video helped sir!

[@michaelbarras6950]

When reinstalling the new shaft and shifter arm, slide the shaft through the shaft housing,slap some red loctite on the splines of the shaft and slide shifter arm on being careful not to get loctite in shaft housing, and tighten screw, let sit and cure. Finish assembly and most likely you never fool with or have issues again. Done mine like that and had success.

[@davidspence8866]

I've told a bunch of my buddies about your Channel I don't run a bagger I got a night train but they're all in the baggers always willing to support anybody or anything from Southern Illinois

[@sikbaggers]

Sorry for the late reply, I just got back from Sturgis and thank you for the support!! Its greatly appreciated sir!

[@mentz8915]

Excellent video, I would add that ALL bolts need to have blue Loctite on them which includes the pinch bolt for the transmission shaft shift arm. I also add some grease to the shift shaft that you replaced which makes it rotate super smooth. Keep up the great videos - Ride on 👍

[@jdkmboy]

Same issue and same fix.. didn't realize until it fell off! Thanks for the vid and keep them coming.. Cheers!

[@sikbaggers]

Thanks brother!

[@stevenpeyton7476]

Did a 2,400-mile trip and the linkage broke on my '16 Road Glide 10 miles from my house! Great video. This has happened on two of my baggers...

[@sikbaggers]

yeah its pretty crazy how often this does happen and no recall from HD

[@muskietime]

Jezz, Guess I can admit that I lost the Shifter twice on my 2014 Street Glide Special. Once on a long Sunday ride. Got off the highway and had no shifter lever. Was able to ride to Rockford, IL HD Dealer & they were Wonderful. Other time I was able to improvise a shifter and get to my Dealer & had fixed. Probably cost me over $200 if you add up the costs and tips I gave to those who went above and beyond. One repair was handled under warranty I seem to remember. In case someone has concerns: Only other issue I have had with my 2014 is the life of the speakers. I seem to blow out the speakers....ever since High School!!! Really appreciate your videos. Just wish your Shop was closer to Chicago but glad that you do not have to be. Southern Illinois is a different State. Thank you.

[@sikbaggers]

Yeah such an easy fix man and costs dudes a lot of money because its not caught in time. I have a bucket of HD speakers you can have...they are crap man and youre going to keep blowing them. So many better speakers out there for a lot cheaper than those from HD and fosgate plug and play junk. and hahahha yeah man...southern Illinois is another state...I was visiting up there in Chicago this year and damn...one week was enough lol

[@byker4lyfe1]

I have fixed lots of these in my carreer 😖 I like the fact that your not another youtuber begging for money on patreon 🖒, this is what made me subscribe thanks for being real😁

[@BradO-u9c]

I recently purchased a 2016 Electra Glide Limited, and this was one of the first things I noticed, and thanks to your video I know I can do it myself. Thanks

[@sikbaggers]

yes it is super simple to do and mine is still doing great and this video was shot quite a long time ago.

[@stephenkellar8886]

I'm really glad I watched this video. Went out and checked my 2016 Trike and the slop is there. (I'm the 2nd owner). I will be getting the parts tomorrow!

[@sikbaggers]

Good deal...I hope you got it lined out!

[@gdub2556]

Thank you for putting the part numbers in the video description! Saved me a lot of time.

[@sikbaggers]

Youre verry welcome!

[@RoadKing2022]

So glad that I found your video, VERY helpful! 5 miles from home yesterday on my 14 Road King, accelerating into traffic and the WT# moment struck! Looks like a simple fix, thanks for the very clear and easy to follow video. New subscriber.

[@montes1970]

Love your videos, straight to the point with no BS. Thanks for putting these together, really helps the HD community.

[@sikbaggers]

thank you montes glad the video helped!

[@amberbali8881]

Good video but you also should change the two bushings in the inner primary boss that the splined shaft slides through. Easy with the proper JIMS tool. Also drill that boss and add a grease zerk so it can be greased. Never a problem again.

[@GetUrPhil]

I had mine go after a month, brand new bike, Good thing I was in town and limped it to Harley for replacing under warranty. They said it's a common problem. My Bike is a 2015 Road Glide. Wish I had seen this video a few yrs back but at least I know now! Thanks.

[@ChrisJones-zr6rw]

After what seemed to be a lifetime, I was able to acquire my first HD back in May 2024, which is a '95 FXDWG. The bike only had 17k miles on it, yet there was a substantial amount of slop in the shifter. Due to my ignorance, I put off having it corrected, not knowing it would create a much bigger problem by doing so. Other than occassionally having trouble finding neutral, the bike ran and shifted fine, until one day when I grabbed the clutch and lifted the shifter to put it in neutral to start it up and after a brief moment of tension, the shifter just flopped backwards. No tension at all on the shifter or any connected levers all the way back as far as I could trace, which of course, is to the shifter rod coming out of the transmission. I've had some folks say that the shifting forks have just slipped and need to be reset, some say they've worn out and need to be replaced, others say the shifting pawl is to blame, which I don't fully understand bc I thought the pawl prevents it from slipping out of gear rather than shifting into gear, others have said the shifting rod going into the transmission needs to be replaced, and a very small percentage have said I need to replace the entire transmission. Out of all the research I've done and comments I heard, the only fact that I'm 100% confident about is that after 2 months now my bike is still sitting collecting dust. I don't have the money to take it to the shop or confidence to tear it open not knowing what the issue most likely is or what I'm looking for. I'm pretty good at following directions and attention to detail, but lack the experience to feel comfortable removing bolts and components in attempt to make a diagnosis. Any advice or link to videos or other content that may be helpful would be appreciated. Thanks in advance.

[@teajae8809]

Got the same slop on my 15, last year. Was on the way home from a day long ride, and ended up kicking the shifter off in my garage... I got lucky! No joke, get it fixed. Great video Steve.

[@sikbaggers]

Yes sir...I hear this too many times and yes you did get lucky...man, no better timing than that! Thanks for checking out the video man and be safe!!

[@jaypino2642]

It happened to me today,my buddy called a friend and he brought his trailer up to get it back home.Thank for the knowledge friend.

[@sikbaggers]

Sorry it got that far but glad the video helped!

[@trikemike7291]

I am glad I ran across this video I am having the same problem but may I ask you a question do you have shift shaft bushings inside

[@sikbaggers]

yes there are bushings inside but it is rare that they are bad...you can change them and even get them from hd or other vendors when you pick up the new lever...not to bad to change either.

[@glidearkansas]

I just had to change these parts on my bike yesterday. I wish that I had seen this video first. Great job and good information!

[@capecodquadcopters729]

Thanks for this. Had my toe shifter turn to mush while down shifting on the way home on my 2010 FLHP in Phoenix today. Ended up not being able to get out of 3rd gear with 2 miles to go before home and half a dozen traffic lights to get through. 1st time I've had to get a bike rolling from a stop in 3rd gear. But she did it a few times and I made it home, just. Was glad to find this video and know that the fix was cheap and easy. You just got a new sub.

[@sikbaggers]

Hey yeah it sucks and its very common issue...glad you got it lined out and more importantly you got her home safe and sound. I appreciate the sub!

[@tobywilliams414]

Didn't realize this was covering what I've already done 3 times on my 08'. Not bad for 11 years though. Great Video!

[@sikbaggers]

Not to bad at all for an 08...I had not heard that there was much trouble on the older bikes but I guess they have had a bad design for some years now. Thank you sir..much appreciated.

[@digitalmischiefHD]

I'm new to the touring world and your videos have already helped me repeatedly! Awesome explanations.

[@sikbaggers]

Thats awesome...thats what its all about..glad to help! Be safe!

[@danreagoso3939]

Ha ! On my way back from Laconia to Pa.my shifts were becoming strange considering I have had no problems with my 2013 Street Glide since I bought it. I am convinced that I need the lever and shaft because I had difficulty adjusting it and was pretty sloppy . Thanks so much !

[@markh5928]

Just found this gem, after finding my ‘14 Ultra Limited’s arm wobbling like an 18 y/o after their first happy hour. Will pull it apart & likely go with the shaft. Didn’t look closer, but wonder if the problem is with hardness in shaft? Bike only has 10k miles on it

[@mvang100]

This happened to my 2014 SGS about a year ago. the shifters didn’t come off but the shaft was stripped out so I couldn’t shift up or down. Had Harley fix it and was told it was probably because I was kicking the shifter arms to hard. LOL I know how I ride and Im certainly not jamming gears. Anyway it was around $150 to get it fixed. I feel it is a design problem. if it happens again, I know how to fix it myself now. Thanks for the video!

[@sikbaggers]

yeah pretty common issue with these year models...they definitely know that its and issue as they have corrected it in the the newer models but still refuse to own it and make a recall. Blows my mind.

[@tony180a]

Thanks Steve, I've had the issue of the shifter becoming loose, luckily I was only a half mile from the house when I went to shift and it fell on my floorboard. Surprisingly I don't have any slop but I'm ordering parts and replacing anyway. Thanks again for the DIY videos.

[@sikbaggers]

Yeah man...good to have these on hand and easy to change

[@donklaing]

Good video I went out and checked my 2010 Limited it has 57K on it and felt fine. Did recently do my Cam Chain Chest upgrades.

[@dbedard01]

Had the exact issue, didn't fall off but stripped enough I couldn't change gears. Great video that helped make the replacement of the shaft and shifter simple and fast. I love it when a fix is straightforward and does the job! Why is it Harley allowed this simple mechanical issue to persist through so many year of bikes??? Why can't someone make a set of hardened parts that will not wear out every 10 years??

[@sikbaggers]

I agree...when I purchased these parts I went back and asked my buddy in service if the parts had improved or if they were the same ones I was replacing. He said its the same parts. Then he said they keep a ton of them in stock because guys are replacing them all the time. I said dont you think if it was this big of an issue there should be a recall? He just laughed and said good luck .In 2017 they did manage to change they way this is mounted up but I have to see if it "fixed" the issue.

[@Todesjaeger00]

Engineered obsolescence.... its the way of the world these days... Keeps them in business when stuff breaks...

[@pugloverg6671]

Worn splines from loose hardware….just replaced all my shifter arms…..much tighter now…..cheers great video….

[@sikbaggers]

Thanks for checking it out. But dont be fooled that it wont happen again because your hardware is tight.. ...these can strip without the hardware being loose... I keep my sleds tight and it still happened. ..its a bad design with too much stress on the spline at a wanky angle even HD knew that and changed it in 2017...keep an eye on it because the replacement parts are the exact same thing you just took out...it was not upgraded.

[@ruedevalence6342]

Thanks man. My shift lever slipped off today but I got it sorted quick thanks to your video

[@inthegarage.withalvaro.1344]

Nice video, thanks. What do you think about the greasable shifter shaft? I found this looking around and I thought it might help with this issue which I have as well. Pingel Greasable Shifter Shaft 62142

[@sikbaggers]

It certainly cannot hurt

[@RodHog1]

Just changed mine 2016 street glide had plenty of slop none now great video just had bike serviced at dealership they said nothing about but thanks to your video I fixed it before it came off thanks again

[@sikbaggers]

Thats great Rod...sucks that your dealership didnt catch it though. They could have at least mentioned it to you. A full service should cover going over all critical fasteners.

[@SAJWS]

I seem to have a similar issue on an 07 RKC. Your fix took care of the problem without R/R the bushings like other videos recommended. I changed out my shift linkage today and it was easy. I also removed the shift shaft and cleaned it up. Moisture does get in there. The new shift rod made a lot of difference. Shifts real solid. (2007 Road King Classic.) I have had the stock shift linkage since 2007.

[@sikbaggers]

Yeah the bushing can be changed but usually is not the issue. Ive had guys on here saying the same thing...you should have changed the bushings...well I would have IF they needed it but they didnt so why waste your time and money when this is the issue. Makes no sense. Glad you got it lined out.

[@SAJWS]

@@sikbaggers Thanks SIK. I agree about wasting money on a bushing change. I did the R/R of the linkage today with a nicer HD lever. Did take out the shift shaft and cleaned it up. Moisture does get int there. The new linkage sure makes a lot of difference. Thanks again for the video. Nice job.

[@petepatterson5651]

Mine just fell off tonight luckily I had a couple of zip ties on the bike to hold it in place after I tighten the bolt up. I will be heading to Harley in the am to get new parts and definitely going to check that rear bolt, I have a lot of slop on mine

[@sikbaggers]

yeah man I get this same comment at least once a week...Im glad the video helped and its a shame that HD doesn't recognize this as a problem more than making more parts to sell us...there clearly should have been a global recall on this issue. Instead, they let us foot the bill. Pretty typical of HD

[@QBama100]

Thanks for the All you do and post to help us!!! I see where peope say they use zip ties incase they break down.. Do you or anyone have a pic or info how to use the zip ties?

[@LTFIRE64]

My bad day was today, stranded on the highway. It happed just as you described, never knew this was an issue. This is a 2016 FLTRU that just had a 20K service at harley about 1000 miles ago, hoping the repair will not be too expensive.

[@sikbaggers]

I think the parts were about 100 bucks or so.,..not sure what they charge for labor but it shouldn't be more than an hour...its really easy to change. Glad you found the issue....its a pretty crap day when it happens for sure.

[@LTFIRE64]

@@sikbaggers Repair with parts and labor from Harley came to $148.78. The hassle of the day and tow came to more than the repair. I'm glad I found your channel, stay safe my friend.

[@LiamLittleDrummerBoy]

EXCELLENT video, thoroughly explained the how and why about these parts. I found the video after getting ready to take a ride with my 6 y/o. The foot pedals just sheared off trying to find neutral. I imagine if it had happened while riding, it could be fairly dangerous! Blessed that it happened before the ride. And I’m happy to now have the knowledge and ability to fix and prevent this in the future. My question now is…has any aftermarket company come up with a better option? My bike is a 2011 FLHX

[@sikbaggers]

Thank you for your kind words about the video and I'm glad it helped you understand the issue with your Harley's shift shaft. It's fortunate that the foot pedals sheared off before your ride, as it could indeed have been dangerous if it happened while you were riding. It's great that you now have the knowledge and ability to fix and prevent this problem in the future. As far as the replacement...I havent had one come back after installing the Drag Specialties shift shaft...here is the part www.denniskirk.com/drag-specialties/shifter-shaft-1602-0873.p577379.prd/577379.sku its a matter of time to tell if it holds up better than the OEM one.

[@sandman5m]

Thanks a lot for this video I have a 2013 FLHTC and this just happened to me last week as far as everything seems to be slipping on the shaft I tried to tighten down to make sure everything was tighten down onto the shaft but everything still slips when I try to shift. So again thank you very much for this video

[@sikbaggers]

yeah its pretty common just read the comments under this video alone...we change out a lot of them.

[@praisethelord4222]

My 2014 Street Glide at 15,000 miles just had this issue. Thanks for this video, time to replace it. Ride Safe Y'all

[@tbdieseltrucking]

Perfect video!! I just had this happen on my '15 RG Special. Bike would not get out of 1st gear, with a shit ton of slop. Thanks so much for this vid!!

[@sikbaggers]

Unfortunately just on my video alone there are tons of stories with the same issue and Hd never addressed it, they just changed it on the M8 version in 2017 and it seems the issues have gone away. But they will keep selling us parts to fix it.

[@funhumanusa]

2021 FLHTK just went in for my 5k service. Tech noticed a little oil at the rear shaft (8:49 in your video). I also mentioned to the service advisor how loose my front shifter linkage seemed. You could clearly see it dancing around at idle. Still under warranty, pulling the cases off next week. Sadly I just did a new clutch and Man o War comp. Hate to see that pulled apart. Excellent Videos!!!

[@sikbaggers]

oh man...I just put one of those man o wars in a bike, that thing is pretty sick...sorry to hear about the issues youre having with this though...but thats what the warranties are good for, well, as long as HD has the parts or can get them in a timely manner lol

[@dkb194]

Had my rear shifter come off while riding on 2008 Street Glide. Went to put it in first from stop and it just fell forward. Managed to get it barely back on and limped home 10 miles in second. I spent many hours under the bike to get a new arm back on without taking off the whole primary. Had to spread the rear arm to get it on. Lets hope I get a few more years.

[@sikbaggers]

Yeah man ive seen it happen a lot...its no joke when your on the side of the road either. Glad you got it fixed!

[@svmontoya15]

Thank you for this! New HD owner (not new to 2 wheels), '16 RGU does this same exact thing. Your video took the worry out of this issue, and shows it's an easy fix. Parts ordered, liked, and subscribed!

[@sikbaggers]

Hey Shawn! playing catch up on my comments after daytona bike week! Glad the video helped you and yes its very common on these bikes and super easy quick fix...best to keep a spare in the saddlebag to be honest lol Glad it helped and thank you for the SUB!

[@timpeterson7092]

great video , I have a 2013 electra glide ultra, I have replaced the shaft and slop is stil there but not as much, i am thinking maybe the bushings need replacing also...

[@sikbaggers]

You cna change the bushingsthere will be a little slop in there, its not completely tight even from the factory.

[@timpeterson7092]

@@sikbaggers ,thank you....🤘🤘🤘

[@AdrianGivaudan]

Exactly that happened to me this weekend but it mess, so I’ve to fix it “quick” before to see your video, I’ve my new parts!!! Let’s go to surgery! Thanks a lot!! Great content!

[@jccuby7771]

best intro ever. Replacing my today with all new levers and parts. 2015 SGS

[@sikbaggers]

Nice...save that money! Easy install...glad it helped you...be safe!!

[@kiloindiaalphasierra4298]

Mine has some slight play in it, no where near like yours did. Since mine is already a little wiggly should I replace it? Great step-by-step video!

[@sikbaggers]

Thank you! Much appreciated. Itll have some very slight play in as the shaft just rides in that casing...just make sure everything is tight...Mine was pretty sloppy loose and I didnt loose it...but I had the second one on hand just in case as I knew it was going bad.

[@qthebikeahaulic]

Had mine fly off on I-80 at 75mph on my old bike 01' electra glide ultra couch. It was NOT sloppy before hand. The shifter side bolt was still in the shifter when I picked it up off the road. The bolt is fully threaded and the threads sheared off inside the groove allowing it to vibrate off. Solution is to use a hardened shank bolt. That way a full solid shank is in the groove not a few threads that wear over time. 2 ways to accomplish this seeing as no one makes a bolt this exact size. Example # 1) Take a same diameter solid shank bolt longer than the stock bolt and cut it to correct length, then thread the end. Example # 2) drill out shifter lever and back lever threads and put in a correct diameter solid shank bolt with threads that start past the other end then add a washer, lock washer, nut, cap nut . You can get this bolt at any hardware store. Yes this looks like over kill but it worked for me for 3 years before I did example #1. Metric bikes use aluminum shift levers that partially crush on the steel shift rod, not steel on steel like Harley's and they use solid shank bolts. Both my dirt bikes, KTM 690 and my 1st gen KLR 650 Kawasaki have this setup. Hope this helps somebody.

[@1964jubilee]

Great video. Your instructions skills are immaculate and detail

[@sikbaggers]

Thank you! Glad that it helped! have a Merry Christmas!

[@RafaelJimenez-hz9gu]

Sir quick ? My 2015 ultra has the bolt for the heel shifter from the bottom up. My question is which way do I turn the bolt to loosen it? Thank you.

[@jmillen69]

Ty for showing how to do this my 2010 dyna is doing this exact thing. Will getting new shift shaft tomorrow from local Harley dealer

[@sikbaggers]

yeah its an issue for sure..it seems HD fixed it in 2017 but all of the rest of us we have to keep replacing the...glad the video helped!

[@johnwarzybok6360]

Sik, thanks for this important video! I had this same issue with my 03' FLSTCI! As always, you make an excellent instructor, plain, easy to understand. Very helpful! God Bless you brother. Ride safe.

[@sikbaggers]

Thank you John, much appreciated sir. Im glad the videos have helped you! Be safe!

[@johnippolito2376]

@@sikbaggers Steve I'm sure this issue has been beat to death but I wanted an honest opinion. I recently purchased a 2004 roadking custom with 22,500 miles on it. I'm not sure if it has been converted to the hydraulic cam tensioners or not but if it still has the spring tensioners how many miles do you think I can get out of them before they let loose?

[@mikejw58]

Thank you sir for this video. Excellently done. This is definitely something that needs to get done on my 2013 TK. As far as that rear lever goes. I have tried to get to the bolt that holds the rear lever on (the one behind the primary) and I cant see or get to that bolt at all. It just seems to be at a really tight angle. Second, I'm hearing a noise thats coming from some kind of slop but not sure if its the slop in the gear shift levers. When I'm coasting in gear, no power applied, and then I accelerate I hear a clank like as if slack in the primary chain is being taken up or maybe something else. I could try this fix but I have a feel I'm in for a whole lot more and thinking of just taking it to the stealership.

[@sikbaggers]

More than likely it is your compensator...check out videos on replacing your comp with a Man O War compensator......if its got slack in it now itll soon go

[@mikejw58]

@@sikbaggers Thanks bro. I had the dealership test ride it yesterday. On the ride out, I noticed its most noticeable in 5th gear so I told them that. After the ride he said it could be the compensatory or the main bearing (Och). I'm thinking of riding it until I hear it getting worse. What would happen if the compensator goes? Am I calling a tow truck? Will I hear something that tells me I better get back home before I'm stuck?

[@AlanVerrier]

love the video very helpful, What about the the back of the shift lever connected to the transmission.

[@sikbaggers]

like I explained in the video its way more time consuming,...youll need to pull your outer and inner primary to access that. That one doesn't usually loosen up like the front.

[@graywolf688]

I had this happen to me yesterday on my way home.. thankfully I was only two blocks from my house. I remember seeing your video awhile back so I watched it again.. Afrerwards I looked up the part numbers for shaft and lever on the Harley site today and it's not coming up.

[@sikbaggers]

these parts wont come up on the HD website...check a HD website that is a store... www.surdyke.com/PartsMain.aspx?PartNumber=33709-82A&SubCatID=&CatID=&Name=&CatName=SHIFTER%20SHAFT%20LEVER,%20GEAR AND www.surdyke.com/PartsMain.aspx?PartNumber=33718-82B&SubCatID=&CatID=&Name=&CatName=

[@biggheavy9890]

Brother I hope this is my problem. I just lost mine this morning and I'm pissed 😤. Great video...keep'em coming

[@sikbaggers]

yeah man its really common issue...If you lost it then this was more than likely the problem. Just change it all out and you'll be good for another 2 years lol..they said they didnt upgrade any of the hardware even though they know its an issue.

[@Bionic_man09]

Mine is loose like that and I believe it’s what is causing my heel toe shifter to not be able to catch on the splines causing the shifters to just freely move without shifting. The rear shaft is good and tight

[@stevesotelo5755]

Hey Steve how’s it going. Is there any aftermarket for the shaft and shift levers that you would recommend? Thx

[@tobyratcliffe4534]

I had a full strip happen on the way of of four corners monument headed towards the grand canyon. I figured out how to jockey shift grabbing the shift rod with my hand to get me 3 hours down the road to the next HD shop.

[@jackjensen5093]

Great Video, I subscribed. 2007 Road King, the aftermarket heel shifter is giving me problems. Heading out to the garage now to look closer at all this. Thank you for adding the part numbers. May I ask a dumb question? Does HD have both a service manual and a parts manual?? For instance, in the boating world, Mercury marine publishes both a service manual AND a parts manual. The parts manual is a must have. Thank you!

[@sikbaggers]

Sorry for the late reply...been at Tail Of The Dragon for a week. You can see all of the parts numbers here at this link, put in your year and bike and then you can open each section of the bike and scroll down to see part numbers partsfinder.onlinemicrofiche.com/ronnies/showmodel.asp

[@tomcain4130]

Great Vid. Just had that problem fixed. Luckily not on the road when it went bad.

[@sikbaggers]

Yes sir...very lucky..I see this a lot.

[@jimanderson6255]

I have a '98 Road King Classic, there is a grease fitting on the shaft housing. I have 90,000 miles on that bike and it has NEVER needed new shaft bushings, unlike my 2015 Untra Limited which has 42,000 on it.

[@sikbaggers]

I wish they still had zerk fittings on these bikes...they have virtually removed them all. it sucks

[@rex0370]

I’m struggling getting the shift lever off. What tools/size works. Can I do it with an Allen wrench? When I put a bit in there I can’t seem to fit it. I turn the drill and it isn’t coming out. I just feel like I’m stripping it.

[@daviddetorres2667]

Great instruction and video. I had to replace the shift shaft, front shift lever and the toe shift ($113.00) that I picked up at local HD.

[@sikbaggers]

Thank you...very glad it helped you...I see a ton of these...glad you fixed it before you lost it.

[@CBRR10011]

Steven I ride a Victory, on our trip 2017 we had three of my friends Harley go down because of this, we was on the side of the highway repairing the shift linkage just so we can make to a shop that was one crazy day not 1 but 3 bikes it was about 20 bikes ...now all my Harley brothers carry spare shifter and shaft

[@sikbaggers]

Holy cow man I bet that was a long day...terrible design for sure...at least they tried to fix the issue in 17. Always smart to carry a few extra parts and some cheap tools in the bags for sure.

[@joshua_irving93]

Mine 98 road king has a bunch of slack like that, I was told to buy one of those anti rattle kits, it’ll be here Friday. But now I’m thinking that what u just replaced might be my real issue🤦🏻

[@sikbaggers]

Never seen an anti rattle kit..let me know what you come up with on this.

[@joshua_irving93]

@@sikbaggers it’s basically just a larger spacer that replaces the stock one, but I ended up going to check out the shaft on my bike after this video and realized all I needed to do was push my lever back a little, now it’s nice and tight. I still have the spacer for the future tho lol

[@joshua_irving93]

@@sikbaggers I bought the anti rattle kit from Dennis Kirk website. If you wanna look it up to have a better idea of what I’m talking about

[@SmOoThYwOoDy]

@SIK Baggers, I have a 09 eletra glide. Would the part number be the same as yours? Mine is just slightly lose, but after seeing your video I want to fix mine right away. Thank you for the detailed information in your videos.

[@paulduggan2177]

Nearly got stranded in the middle of no where! I'll be changing mine shortly. Thanks for the advice!

[@fastcarmagnum]

Great video but I still have a question. Exactly what part wore down?

[@sikbaggers]

the spline wears out and the bolts wont hold the shifter levers

[@evofxrp]

The problem is not in the design. It’s the materials. You have aluminum or pot metal tightening down onto hardened steel. The soft metal is going to wear down easily and become loose.

[@sikbaggers]

In 2017 they changed the design, same materials, different design. No more issues. However I do agree with you, thats basic physics at work on these parts and the whole thing should have been thought out a lot better than it was. Its cost the touring model owners a substantial a mount of their own money to fix. For what we pay for these..thats unacceptable in my opinion.

[@dinshak86]

@@sikbaggers I agree with you...Harley owners chug out alot of money for their machines and after that they still have to face inferior design or parts or ancient tech, then Harley really needs to look into it seriously.

[@daveg5011]

Question: does the 3 bolts come with the replacement shaft IF NOT WHY NOT

[@todddomke3063]

That's because we lost MADE IN DETROIT and all the people who were real machinists not computer designers.

[@Pushrodlife]

Hey man thanks for the video! Mine is sloppy and now I definitely know what part I need to change!

[@sikbaggers]

Yes sir..pretty easy fix..be glad you caught it now.

[@raymondpontremoli4500]

Oh other thing you might want to try....It worked for me great. When you take the "shift shaft" out next time..drill and tap one wall of the sleeve for a zerk grease fitting. I did that to mine and every so often I hook up the grease gun and shoot in some new grease. You would be surprised the amount of water that pushes out . Not sure why Harley didn't do that from the beginning.

[@danjensen100]

One more question, aren't there also 2 bushings inside the inner primary cover that the shift shaft runs through? Do these wear as well, also causing the slop? I have a 14 SGS and it's starting to rattle, I have play between the shifter shaft and the inner primary cover......I watched another video that showed replacement of the 2 bushings but that was on a pre 14 SG and I'm not sure if that same repair applies to my year. Thanks, Dan

[@richardedwin5980]

Can you tell me what tool is used to remove/install the shifter shaft bushings on a 2018 Road Glide? The old tool Jims 5518 doesn't work with the new M8.

[@HDRGNIL]

Thanks! I was definitely on the wrong track. Was about to order new heel-toe levers. To be sure, the foot levers do not need to be replaced? (mine fell off, are sliding around on the shaft) Awesome video!

[@juliomatamoros1229]

I just changed my stator and shift lever and when I started my bike my chain sounds like it’s flying all over the place. Just wondering if it’s because the chain tensioner hasn’t expanded yet. Rode it a couple of blocks but still sounds the same. Is this normal after a stator change? This video was very helpful when I switched this out. Thanks.

[@sikbaggers]

definitely sounds like something is not right..pop the cover and check it out.

[@juliomatamoros1229]

@@sikbaggers thank you will do.

[@mikegee8900]

What about the brass bushing in the inner primary cover that shaft goes thru. Yes they wear out too. I change mine every other year . I keep a new shaft, inner arm bolts and one shifter arm in my bags any time I go on road trips. It’s only 50 bucks in parts. Cheap insurance

[@sikbaggers]

Absolutely...you can change the brass bushings if they need it. In my case here my bushings were fine..all of the slop was in the rear of the shift shaft and I could see that after I pulled the shaft...If the shaft is replaced and there is still slop that would be my next move.

[@bobbyruth8201]

This happened to me on my 2016 Road Glide Ultra last year on I-65 on a Sunday afternoon. Stranded my wife and I on the side of the highway halfway between Louisville and Bowling Green . Fortunately bike was still under warranty and Louisville H-D brought me out the two parts I needed to repair it myself ( I carry enough tools for minor repairs). Oh and did I mention we were traveling from our home in Rochester NY to Clarksville TN. Was not one of our fondest memories to say the least.

[@billcarson1966]

Question - no grease or anti-seize on that new shaft? Just install dry? Besides that, excellent advice! Replacing mine this weekend in my 2009 Road King.

[@sikbaggers]

Sure you can put either or on there..it wont hurt it ...Service manual didnt call for it but the ones we have been replacing have some anyi seize on them now.

[@superduty131]

Great info for sure....My 13 RG had that issue and left me having to shift by hand by leaning over and grabbing the lever to get it to the shop. You are correct on the fix from HD. I just purchased a 19 RGU and changed out the levers and noticed that the stock hrdwr has been improved. Not threaded into levers but using captive nylock nuts and the levers are aluminum now. The 19s have alot of little improvements that I was not aware of but overall makes the bike that much better. Thanks.

[@sikbaggers]

Yes sir....It was one of the first things I noticed on the 17 ups...they seem to have lined out the issue but man it took a few years...lots of guys riding the 14 to 16s now and this is for sure something to be aware of.

[@bradduffield9603]

Thanks for the excellent explanation of fixing shifter slop

[@sikbaggers]

Youre very welcome Brad...glad to help!

[@jamesconn1104]

Great vid !! my slack or slop seems to be front to back, like nearly an inch i replace the shift shaft today . 91 flhs 57 k miles , it dont want to shift, tranny full & clean primary good , adjusted clutch still aint right shift levers tight , any advice would be appreciated Thank You !! tried adjusting linkage with no luck tryin maybe to reduced slack

[@sikbaggers]

There are two bushings inside there..have you checked to see if they are wore out? That could be an issue on 91 for sure.

[@rayw2715]

Great video. Very helpful. I replaced the shift lever shaft and while retightening the pinch bolt on the inner shift lever I snapped the head off the pinch bolt. Overzealous I suppose. Luckily I was able to remove the shift lever and only needed to replace the bolt. Maybe it was just time for a new bolt? 😂

[@markgaston3824]

New subscriber I just purchased a used 2011 Road King flhr I noticed on the test ride that front part of my foot was not catching the front gear shift lever unless I kind of pigeon toed my left foot in which makes uncomfortable while driving around in town due to the fact of constantly having to shift gears. So today I got a chance to look at it I noticed that the shaft that you replaced in your video was sticking out past the front gear lever which I assume after watching your video is where the rear gear shift lever would have been. What is happening now is that shaft is constantly hitting the inside Arch of my foot is there any way to place another spacer on the gear shift shaft so that the front gear lever will become flush with the shaft? Or do they make a front gear shift lever where that part of the lever that the front of your foot uses is longer or wider I'm not sure how correctly to put that? I appreciate any kind of help of information that you can offer.

[@browebbarmstrong9323]

great vid. I have a 1988 FLHTC the rear slop is so bad it is wearing a notch in the back plate of the rear primary cover. I tried to tighten that bolt but the rear shift arm will not come off the shaft coming out of the trans gear box. Question : Does the inner primary have to be pulled to replace that rear shifter lever on a 88?

[@sikbaggers]

yes...the outer and inner need to be pulled to access the rear shift lever, unfortunately.

[@browebbarmstrong9323]

@@sikbaggers Thanks man..

[@browebbarmstrong9323]

@@sikbaggers Do you have a vid about pulling the inner primary case? Is that a job that you woudl think a shop is needed or just how challenging is ti to get all that back in place once you pull it? I guess my only other question woudl be what else needs to be checked or replaced while in there. Thanks again . Glad i found your channel.

[@timduquette2672]

New to the HD world and this channel is awesome. Went out and checked and sure enough, its got some play. Question, what shift pedals and linkage is that? Its a lot beefier than stock

[@sikbaggers]

Thanks for checking it out tim...and the shift rod is made by performance machine however I cannot find it in chrome now when I just looked to send you a link...they still make them in black and various other designs in chrome though..and the pegs were a one off but you can find very similar ones from joel at JH Choppers. I have his stuff on my softail build and its great quality all made in house by him. jhchoppers.com/product-category/heel-toe-shifters/ make sure to check all of his other matching parts that goes with these...he makes it all. I hope this helps!

[@gk242-kz7em]

Hey great vid very informative. So you mentioned the back one being a ton of money to fix. That's the one that is sloppy on mine. Do you have a how-to on doing that one?

[@sikbaggers]

Im sorry I dont...havent had to change one in a while.

[@gk242-kz7em]

@@sikbaggers gotcha hey thank you for responding. Very good info. Thanks

[@whatyoumakeofit6635]

What about when the shaft is loose in the hole on the primary ? Is there a over sized shaft available? A bushing?

[@scrumthebum2451]

Those bolt slots are the problem. My 40 year old shovelhead still has oem shaft , linkage & shifter lever. There is no bolt slot on the shifter shaft. My 2015 RK the shaft is ok but the chincy shifter wore out

[@bobrosso9147]

How about changing the bushings for that shift lever. On my 89 EVO, it doesn't look like there's enough room to drive those bushings out with the primary housing mounted to the bike.

[@whitedogprd]

There is a special tool available for driving the bushings out. I would imagine the bushing should’ve also been changed along with the shift shaft.

[@bobrosso9147]

@@whitedogprd Yep. Found it...bought it...did it.

[@charlielocke6831]

I’ve had mine break in 5th gear pinned passing on a windy ass highway had little tools my buddy worked near by so we macgyvered something to get back in the road going strong 1500 miles later (I clean my bike after / and before every ride and check for things off wacky and my shifter leaks so Ik I checked that often)

[@ryancterrell]

Great video. I’ve got a 2002 Roadking Classic. Does this apply to my model? Mine is super loose. Do you have links to the parts? Thanks!!

[@sikbaggers]

yes sir this should be the same set up...however im not certain on the part numbers for that year...here is the online parts finder for the gear shifter assembly on a 2002 road king classic partsfinder.onlinemicrofiche.com/ronnies/showmodel.asp?Type=13&make=hdmc&a=400&b=15&c=0&d=2002%20FLHRC-I%20TOURING%20ROAD%20KING%AE%20CLASSIC%20(INJECTION)%20(FR)%20GEAR%20SHIFTER%20ASSEMBLY

[@ryancterrell]

Thank you very much! I’m also in the market for some speakers, but I have leather bags. I’m thinking my only option is crash bar speakers even though they won’t look that great on the bike.

[@ryancterrell]

So I did this repair today and what a world of different it made. The teeth on the shaft were a little rounded in spots. Thanks again!

[@Try-hard999]

I have a 05 Electra Glide and my shift shaft is stuck and I can’t pull it out. Am I missing something? I removed all levers.

[@bowdygonzales145]

Thank you for this video i just had my shifter go out on way home today had one gear 2nd for 12 miles lol this video was very informative now to order new parts so i can get bike back on the road

[@sikbaggers]

Glad it helped. i know it sucks but im glad you got it fixed!

[@matthewblair2748]

I have slop and wiggle in the rear. Can it be adjusted without removing the primary?

[@davidedging4930]

Great Video Steven. I have a 2016 ultra and I was wondering if it is normal to have some side to side play in the rear lever. Mine is ok as far as front to back which seems to indicate that my splines are still ok.

[@sikbaggers]

a small amount of side to side is normal. Wouldnt hurt to reach in there and check the pinch bolt though.

[@davidedging4930]

@@sikbaggers Thank you

[@NealHartsChannel]

I didn't see in the video but did you clean out the shift shaft and lubricate it or do you just put the shaft in dry? It seems like it should be cleaned and lubricated.

[@dshermanct]

Thank you very much for this video. I thought I was going to have to shell big bucks to fix this. Then I watched your video and I was able to fix it myself. Very grateful.

[@sikbaggers]

Thank you Dan, im glad it helped and got you back on the road..best yet you saved some bucks!

[@garydahl4488]

Do you know of or tried any after market shift lever and shift shaft that will last and not have issues? Thanks for the video’s, very informative!

[@sikbaggers]

There are several on the market but what I have seen it none of them are worth a hoot...I do believe it is because of the design. Harley changed the design on the M8 models and Im not hearing any complaints yet on them. But as far as one being better then the other..im afraid not. Just a bad design.