Harley Davidson 1984-1998 FLH, FLHT, FXR, FXSB, FXEF. Service manual — page 5

CHAPTER TWELVE

REAR SUSPENSION

This chapter includes repair and replacement procedures for the rear suspension components. Tables 1-5 are located at the end of this chapter.

WARNING

All nuts and hulls used on the rear suspension must be replaced with the same type of parts. Do not use a replacement part of lesser quality or substitute design because it might affect the performance of the rear suspension or fail and lead to loss of control of the motorcycle. The torque specifications listed in Table S must be used during installation to ensure proper retention of these components.

SHOCK ABSORBERS

Removal/Installation

When servicing the rear shock absorbers, remove one shock at a time. If it is necessary to remove both shocks, support the motorcycle with the rear wheel off the ground on a suitable floor jack.
1. Support the motorcycle on a swing arm stand with the rear wheel off the ground a minimum of four inches.

2. Slide a wooden block between the rear tire and floor so that il just touches the tire.

3. On models so equipped, remove the saddlebags as described in Chapter Fifteen.

4. If necessary, remove the muffler to access the bottom shock mounting bolt. Refer to Chapter Eight.

NOTE

A rear shock absorber system is a split system used on I9S5 and later FXRT-models.

The shock absorber installed on the left side is a nonadjustable hydraulically damped shock. The right side is equipped with an air shock similar to the air shocks used on some FLH and FLT models.

5. On air shocks, bleed the air shock of all air pressure. Then disconnect the air line at the compression fitting.

NOTE

Note the location of the washers used on each of the shock absorber bolts or studs so they can be reinstalled in the original positions.