I just had these shocks installed on my '04 Harley Night Train after watching this video and man, what a difference! My girl is enjoying the ride once again after suffering a painful jolt to her spine from an unforseen pothole! I did my research and truly believe these are the best shocks for this model! Thanks again for posting this video!🏍
Hi buddy, I'm so glad that you find the improvement, Softails have always been a little lacking on their rear suspension, and with the price of Harleys it's no surprise they had to abandon the old platform and go to the new Softail style, it's important for not just comfort, but the safety of control, as the roads around us gradually get worse over the years... ride safe both of you and have a great week!
Excellent video. Direct, explicit, moving along at a great pace, no unnecessary chatter, excellent lighting in the tight spots and nice music in the back ground. A superb job all around. Thank You.
Thank you so much for this video! This gave me the confidence to do my own. But, I'm here to tell you, it was NOT easy breaking the bolts free. And I sprayed them with WD40 several times over a couple weeks. But in then end, I was triumphant and now have new shocks on my 2006 Fatboy. Thank you again!
Most welcome, glad it helped you Sir, sounds like you had a real challenge with it there, but I always reckon that makes the job all the more satisfying when you get it done!
I had one of my progressive shocks come loose on my 93 Heritage softail and hadn’t really ever dealt with them since they were already on the bike. Didn’t really know the setup and all. I had already put the bolt back and tightened the shock. This video really helped me to understand how they were installed and the torque setting. Very thorough and well done. Thanks
Yes finally somebody Showing how to takeoff and install without getting the manual out I love the video big A+ thank you so much for making it really helped thanks again Dave
Nice video. I've bought my first Harley a month ago. It's a FLST '89 custom fatboy. Since i'm a compleet novice at mechanics, I find your video's very educational. Lot's of tip 'n tricks. I want to thanks you for these nice video's. Greetings Dennis from the Netherlands.
You were right about not enough videos on this project on the internet. Thankfully found your video and I'm about to tackle replacing my 2000 Fatboy shocks. I feel confident after watching your video that I'll be able to accomplish it without too much difficulty. Will let you know how it turns out.
Thats cool Mazz, good lick with it, dont feel you are alone.. drop me a line if you get stuck or if there is anything confusing.. strange ground is always a journey of discovery aye.... take care.. Del.
Bro!!! That was by far the most descriptive and practical instructional video that I have seen yet. Great job to you and also to the camera girl, catching all the important angles!!! ML&R
Glad it helped you brother, and thank you for the great feedback, we really appreciate that.. Im lucky to have a camera girl who knows her way around a garage and knows that to capture.. Take care and have a good weekend. Del.
Because the bolts that hold the shocks in the back were so f***ing tight I had to remove the swig arm with the shocks attached to it in order to take them off!! Thank you for this tutorial and greetings from the other side of the pond.
Sorry to hear that Alex, i know what you mean, i think i was lucky and got away with it, there's no room under there to get long breaker bars or a power tool in to break them loose aye... sometimes you just gotta rip it apart.. Glad you got it done, and thanks for your feedback.
Wow, probably one of the most iconic Harleys of the modern era, in my view, better than the FatBoy, but that's just personal taste, enjoy your bike and ride safe buddy.
Love your videos Del, you explain everything so well and it's like your only talking to me and you don't talk down to anyone unlike some other UA-cam videos I've watched and quickly turned off. 👍🏻
Thanks Peter, that is really kind of you, and we're so glad you enjoy the videos, we try to do them step by step and pass on the knowledge, and also (we hope!) alllows viewers to follow them and do a job successfully themselves, you're feedback is much appreciated, all the best, D&P!
Excellent Video. Comment on adjusting the stiffness. Time mark 25:25. You show how to adjust the plate using the HD spanner. I have found it difficult to adjust the plate when mounted on the bike with my 2 piece spanner that requires a 3/8" ratchet or breaker. But, my compromise was to get the spanner in place on the plate then use a 3/4" open end wrench to adjust the rod. It seems to be much easier.
Good video. I’m always impressed when someone can speak fluently without “ums” and “likes” and such. And don’t have to search for words or course don’t curse.
This is just a really good video. He explains some, not so obvious geometry in simple terms. They have good quality camera moves, Excellent! Thank you for producing.
Hey Del ..with 400 plus centimetres still on the ground it may take a while but no worries it's all part of living in the far north ..thanks again my old friend.
good informative video. Brought back good memories of doing a similar job many years ago and not having a lift available we used our Hy-Mac 580C excavator to dangle the bike off. worked well cos the hy-mac didn't get tired
This is a great video - will be very useful when I get the scratch together to upgrade the suspension on my FLSTC. I also bought the wrench from HD and used it and found it to be a royal PITA. Looking for a better solution, I stumbled on the use of a rubber strap wrench. Wrap that thin around the canister portion of the shock, hold the 9/16" wrench on the shaft and have a go at it. Works sooooo much better for me!
Just a note about torque wrenches, if you use a crows foot to get to those inaccessible bolts, there are formulas to determine true torque with extensions at any angle. Most DIY won’t have access to unique tools to do this, so I see the “strong arm” method of torquing to be adequate. Do a few push ups first though.
Hiya Del & Penny, Another real professionally done video guys. Can really notice the change over the years. Been able to catch up today, on the videos I haven't seen over the last 2 weeks, after being away in Scotland. And while there, I pointed a few folks in this direction..'See you' at the weekend. Take it easy guys. Al.
Great job Delroy... It's funny how everybody has a nice drill press, where they could put a wire wheel on it .and do an awesome job... like yourself. Lmao. Thank you so much,on how to show how to adjust , the preload. I have to tighten the preload cuz I'm 190lbs... and it's bottoming out. Solo rider. PS....I LOVE THE ADVERTISEMENT STICKER YSS, you added to your tool box, behind you, as soon as you bought the AFTER MARKET shocks, there mate!!! lmao
Cheers for posting this up as it really shows you what`s involved including for novice mechanics as it`s so well explained. I`ve worked on hundreds of bikes over the years but only a handful of Harley`s. Your softail series is most helpful and keep up the great work. I`ve actually posted up links to the softail series on the fatboy uk owners site on facebook as I was so impressed and that`s from someone who`s been working on bikes for the last 35yrs and used to have his own bike workshop business. Cheers, Matt
Glad the series could help you in some way matt, and thank you for yo0ur kind support with posting the links, it's always good to hear the videos get shared and passed around to other can benefit too.... Thanks again buddy, and keep in touch.. Del.
At 23:02 it appears that you used the shock height spacers and then a bolt to secure the shock. Is that how one should use the extra YYS shock height spacers or was that for convenience later if you want to change the ride height? What is the size of the shock lock nut on the preload spring? I would image one would need a stubby wrenches for the 9/16" and the larger preload lock nut to make this adjustment easier while the shock is on the bike.
Hey Del and Penny! Really great video! Del you really are a perfectionist, which is why I love to see your work. I'm not sure if you knew, but I bought a 1994 Heritage when it was new. It is now, 23 years old! It has 32,000 miles on it with the original shocks. I'm sure, just due to age it needs this upgrade and most likely new rubber seals. I will invest in new seals should I upgrade. I have a couple other projects right now to deal with like a new roof for our home. Storm/Wind damage recently removed several shingles. Thank goodness for home-owner insurance to help with some of the costs. Great camera work Penny, looks really professional! Lastly, so sorry for the horrible attack on your Mother Country today. I really feel so bad for the families who lost loved ones today. Just know your Yankee Cousins do feel your lose. Hopefully, together we can defeat this enemy. God Bless you both. Also, if I may, Long live England!!!! Love her people!!!!!!!
Hi Scott & Debbie, how lovely to hear from you again... we often think of you and hope you are ok, I didn't know you had a Heritage, I almost bought one before I got the FatBoy, they truly are a stunning bike! Good luck with your projects on it. Thank you for your very kind words on the events of yesterday, will these people never realise that their attempts to de-rail Western freedom are pointless and meaningless, they will never have any effect and they will never achieve their ends by these means... when I ride my Harley Davidson I do it with a capital sized middle finger in the face of these people, they will never impede our lives or slow down our progress, we are peaceful, civilised human beings, and they are no more than pointless savages... the civilised world unites in situations like this and it's so good to know we have your love and respect from across the pond...... Take care both of you, and ride very safe, all the best, D&Px
Great Vid, have just rebuilt front end of my soft tail, new wheel, twin disc's etc, now you've made me think about the rear end, the wife ain't happy lol
Hey brother, thank you so much for your kind words, it's wonderful when somebody notices the post production, it is at last as much work as the filming itself! Thank you for your kind support, it's very much appreciated, enjoy your weekend!
Love your videos! Today did the oil change with a purge as per other video. Best oil change i ever did! Thank you! Just a reminder, dont forget to replace those two cam chain tensioners and check the crank run out.
great vid as usual. for hard to get at places there is a small tool shaped like a ring spanner with a ring on one end and a square drive on the other end for a torque wrench. A small recalculation in torque is needed. They can help in tight spaces.
Yeah, and stubby spanners for working under the bike, and ratchet spanners for bolts like this, and a two arm lift.... oh how i need more tools... lol Thanks buddy.!:-)
I've seen ones with open spanner ends, they're called 'crow's foot' spanners. Most seem to come with a 3/8 square drive, but adapters are no problem...
Howzit Del, great video, I've been putting off upgrading the Wife's Deluxe, as I was worried at the ease of access and complexity in changing the shocks, you've made it less daunting. Thanks Bud.
hey Marc.. Howit... yes, its a simple job.. just the problems of getting under the bike and supporting it... but all you need is a trolley jack, and a few wooden blocks.. Good luck my broer
Awesome channel! Makes videos were anyone can understand them! Thanks for making my day! Very through in his videos! Takes all the extra steps to do the job right the first time!👍
lol.. good man, you know the score alright! Old school Britool stubby set on ebay for £28.95 as we speak. They're the sort of thing you'll hardly ever use but kick yourself if you don't have one when you need it. A man can not have too many tools!
@@Moonfleet41 im looking at the shock as it is in your vice,thats th eway it is on the bike.my softail is still hard after doing it the "manual"way.i know theyre "pull"shocks.just confused is all.
Hey del thanks for another great video awesome mechanic you are my man, what a great idea putting the wheel on a drill press your the man!! Tell Penny I said hello. Rich from Queens New York!
Del, thank you very much for all your work to share your knowledge on UA-cam! I have a couple of HD's and the one that is my baby is my 2005 Anniversary Edition Fatboy (Golden Boy). I'm going to do some more research but I have been thinking about suspension upgrades. Again, great video and thanks for your work (hard work) in sharing with us all. Ride Safe! Brian - Denver, CO, USA.
Hey Brian, great to hear from you Sir, and a gold anniversary FatBoy is an icon, my 05 Fatboy was the regular anniversary model, but the gold one is seriously rare, most people don't realise they're 1550cc and the badges alone are priceless these days as they're impossible to find now, so take care of her, as I'm sure you do! You'll love the YSS shocks if you're going to fit them, they're a great upgrade and will smooth out the slightly harsh feel on the small ripples in an unkept road, and best of all, on a long fast sweeping bend, it can keep that terrifying death weave from developing, which Softails can suffer with. Ride safe and keep in touch buddy, all the best, Del
Hey Del, I thought I'd just let you know, for the first time since 1989 I've bought a non Japanese bike, just bought a mint 1998 Triumph Daytona t595, 17000 miles, over the moon and back, collect tomorrow!
Awesome bike James... and the full power version, unlike the SpeedTriple that got the castrated one... you will have loads of fun and make sure it's as loud as possible cos that glorious triple with the right exhaust can sound like a Merlin aero engine... lol ! Enjoy your new bike...!
Thanks buddy, don't wait spend too long waiting for your dreams... life is too short buddy, and Harley make it easier than ever to get on the bike you want, and the best thing with Harley Davidsons, is they retain their value better than any other vehicle on earth! The price you pay new, is practically the price you will get back for it in 10yrs time, provided you look after it... and you can't say that about much these days!
Hey Del, Thank you for another great instructional video. I'm anxiously waiting for which was a awful winter to finally melt away . I have a 2003 FatBoy and your correct that the stock shocks have their limitations. I'm thankful for your video and once we lose all of this white crap I think I'll look into a upgrade. Thank you to you and your lovely camera woman.
Hi buddy, yes indeed, Penny puts in a lot of effort, and makes me look good, and let's face it, I need all the help I can get lol ! Horrible waiting for spring ain't it?? But don't worry, couple of rides in the sunshine and the winter literally melts away!
Thanks for another great video. I just scored a 2006 CVO Fat Boy. I will probably look for those shocks after I do a few other things like maybe upgrading my brakes to the new Brembo ones for a little bit better stopping power.
The preload adjust alone, without the “washers” could lower or raise the bike? My bike is too low and I’m think in zip I adjust the preload could make it more higher
I've had one of the rear-most shockabsorber mounting bolts fail on my 1998 Softail. I've measured the threads and I think the bolts on mine are 1/2" UNC as it has 13 threads per inch too. I'm pretty sure they're larger than an M12. I can't seem to check this on the interweb though 😏
I have one of those bolts that snapped inside the threaded inserts on the swingarm! Can I drill it and extract it or is there some other solution to this problem?? Thank for your great video
hello, very interesting video, I have a question, but are you sure that if you turn the ring counterclockwise you release the spring? I know that when you turn the ring counterclockwise you compress the spring, thanks for your help
@@Moonfleet41 I changed my shocks on my Fatboy to the Progressive 422 Heavy Duty. I am having a hell of a time learning about the preload (clockwise or counterclockwise). To my understanding the strength of the spring is always there, the preload places a little pressure on the spring so the ride is a bit stiffer. I went with these shocks because the wife and I and all her hair products (kidding) tend to weigh it down and the stock shocks would bottom out. Does anyone know if progressive is clockwise or counterclockwise to increase preload? The other videos on here show the guy saying one thing but doing the opposite. Logic tells me (like removing a cap on a bottle) that counterclockwise would give the spring more room; hence less preload. But I have heard it's the opposite. I just did a turn of counter clockwise and my bike felt like a tank. So I'll play with it again this weekend. btw., your videos are great, you explain the things well and remind us of important things. Thank you.
great video for this job - I wish my shocks on my '06 Deluxe would pop out of the frame as easily as yours do! I finally got the big bolts broken loose and removed but the shocks seem too long to drop down, even when I jack up the swing arm. There must be a trick to this I don't know...
Thank you for this instruction video. Just wondering how the ride ended up with the new shocks as well as the height of the bike. I thought that with the one adjustment ring that you put on the new shocks it actually made them longer than the original shocks (contrary to what you claimed) - and therefore would lower the bike. How did they feel once you got on the bike and rode it?
I think you can torque the bolts using the wrench that fits as an extender, coupling your torque wrench to the other end of the one that fits in. You have to use a simple equation to get the equivalent torque setting using the extender. I think it's something like: Given X the lenght of the extender, Y the length of the torque wrench and N the torque setting to get in the bolt, the torque setting M to apply using the extension has to be X*N/(X+Y) OR SOMETHING SIMILAR, just google it please, don't trust my memory :). Ah and I think the angle between the extension and the torque wrench doesn't matter, not sure though. Nice video btw!
Didnt want to touch on this because its very confusing... but yes, Snap-On sell a 1 to1 adapter, its like a tiny spanner with a flat 3/4 ring one end, and 3/8 square drive the other.. so they market that as a simple solution..but yes, then the torque value needs to be recalculated, and you need to need it as a daily job because its £60... but like i said, in detail.. the bolts under there aren't critical, so just lots of threadlock and make sure they are wound all the way home...so often ive found these bolts not even fully tightened in and the washers rattling about..!!!!
I just added a set of 422 SERIES SHOCKS W/RAP from progressive suspension on my Harley breakout pro street. Night and day ride honestly best thing I have done to this pig of a bike
The shock bolt that goes into the swing arm has snapped during a ride. I’m assuming that I’ll need to remove the whole swing arm to get half a chance at extracting it?
Thank you very much been watching your channel sence I bought my sportster about three and a half years ago. And now I got a softail night train also 😎😎😎
Wow awesome, love the Night Train, probably the most bad ass Harley they've made, along with the Sotfail Springer, I look at today's line up of new Harleys and wonder where they're going sometimes (that's if they even know themselves!)... one in every 30 Harleys that comes out becomes a future classic, and you havae one there for sure!
I don’t even own a soft tail and still enjoyed the video . You’re even better at explaining than you are at doing. Well I wouldn’t say that ,but I love your videos . Thanks ) it use to be America I don’t know I guess they will find that name racist before to much longer . I’ve never seen a group of leaders and media work so hard to divide a country . Thanks )for your great videos takes my mind off the idiots
Awesome video guys! You're like real pros now. I have a 2009 Harley Softail Deluxe so I will be watching closely anything you do to your Fatboy. By the way, Penny is hot and love her laugh. You are a lucky man, Delboy.
Hey Terry, thanks so much buddy.. we've been pushing hard on the post production over the last few months, it takes a lot longer, but its all worth it when we get such kind comments... And Penny says thankyou, and yes, she knows im lucky...lol! Take care buddy... Del.
love the music in the recent videos! much more relaxing than the stuff you've used in the past. Belt drive is great sometimes eh - on a lot of bikes (mine) that area gets covered in chain gunge!
Thanks Aussie, glad the video could help you mate... and good to hear from all the way from Down Under.. Enjoy your coming summer, its 6 degrees and sleeting here today..!!!
@@Moonfleet41 Del at the moment it,s hot down here mate so you,ll defineatly notice the difference , so bring some sun screen 50+ with you , specially if your gonna hit our beautiful beaches . Enjoy ol mate . Cheers Aussie
Great video I have a heritage softail 94 I bought a pair of progressive shocks 422. I noticed the adjustment holes in mine face the rear wheel not like your model that faces towards the front wheel. My question the shocks are terrible stiff and they are from factory all the way screwed clockwise, from your video what I understand is that if the spring is completely pushed inside would this make the suspension more stiff? In other words to make it softer should I release pressure from the spring?
Never mind... I found out that clockwise in softail Evo models is softer ride less preload. The shock in evo softails have the adjuster plate facing rear of bike and on newer models it’s on the front. The counterclockwise is actually harder, guessing that these shocks are less softer than OEM.
Terrific details and I admire both of you for taking the time to film and then share with all of us. It takes the concerns out of the job with the unknown until you do it the first time for sure. I'd be curious if the oem hardware might corrode faster with the factory paint removed, even though it has a ss content. With everything apart I was expecting re-painting it or suggesting it before re-assembly. Can you comment on the current condition of the hardware now. We all try to ride on dry days but the weather doesn't always cooperate. Thanks again for the terrific video!!!
Thanks for your kind words of support, im glad the video could help you out. i sold this bike a while ago now, so cannot say how the fasteners are holding up, but all things require attention even if only on a once a year inspection to make sure everything is holding up... you can also coat them up with some heavy weight lithium grease for the wet months and that should keep them clean...
Really great video, just got a new suspension and I also got a 2009 softail but man I don't know how you got those back bolt off, they are so tight that I don't know how to do it.
Thanks Richard, appreciate your comments on the music.. its hard to find music that everyone likes.. pretty much every genre we use gets criticism from someone or other.. so its nice to get some good feedback... take carer.. Del.
Moonfleet41 let the flamers flame! They'll be back for the next video, just like the rest of us. You can't make everybody happy with music. It's too subjective. What's horrendous noise to some people is going to make somebody else smile. It's your channel. Suite your mood, and don't give it another moment's thought.
I’ve now seen dozens of videos this guy has put up and the quality of content on this channel is outstanding. Very glad I came across it.
This is the best, most comprehensive how to video I've seen on UA-cam. I'll be a new subscriber, thank you.
Thank you for your kind words Sir.. Welcome aboard.
I just had these shocks installed on my '04 Harley Night Train after watching this video and man, what a difference! My girl is enjoying the ride once again after suffering a painful jolt to her spine from an unforseen pothole! I did my research and truly believe these are the best shocks for this model! Thanks again for posting this video!🏍
Hi buddy, I'm so glad that you find the improvement, Softails have always been a little lacking on their rear suspension, and with the price of Harleys it's no surprise they had to abandon the old platform and go to the new Softail style, it's important for not just comfort, but the safety of control, as the roads around us gradually get worse over the years... ride safe both of you and have a great week!
Excellent video. Direct, explicit, moving along at a great pace, no unnecessary chatter, excellent lighting in the tight spots and nice music in the back ground. A superb job all around. Thank You.
Glad you enjoyed it, much appreciate your kind comments!
Thank you so much for this video! This gave me the confidence to do my own. But, I'm here to tell you, it was NOT easy breaking the bolts free. And I sprayed them with WD40 several times over a couple weeks. But in then end, I was triumphant and now have new shocks on my 2006 Fatboy. Thank you again!
Most welcome, glad it helped you Sir, sounds like you had a real challenge with it there, but I always reckon that makes the job all the more satisfying when you get it done!
@@Moonfleet41 Your channel is great. One suggestion...list links for the parts and tolls you use?
I had one of my progressive shocks come loose on my 93 Heritage softail and hadn’t really ever dealt with them since they were already on the bike. Didn’t really know the setup and all. I had already put the bolt back and tightened the shock. This video really helped me to understand how they were installed and the torque setting. Very thorough and well done. Thanks
Most welcome Doug, im glad it helped you out.
Man, I wish you still had this bike! I have an 03 Anniversary and I’ve really benefited from these vids, Del.
I am a new softail owner and I really appreciate all your knowledge. Thank you so much. From the USA.
Thank you most kindly Charles, Welcome aboard sir, and enjoy the videos..
Have seen other people do this same swap, but none were as informative as you were. Nice job and Thanks. Take Care Brother
Thank you for your kind feedback brother..Glad it helped!
Yes finally somebody Showing how to takeoff and install without getting the manual out I love the video big A+ thank you so much for making it really helped thanks again Dave
You're very welcome!
Nice video. I've bought my first Harley a month ago. It's a FLST '89 custom fatboy. Since i'm a compleet novice at mechanics, I find your video's very educational. Lot's of tip 'n tricks. I want to thanks you for these nice video's. Greetings Dennis from the Netherlands.
You were right about not enough videos on this project on the internet. Thankfully found your video and I'm about to tackle replacing my 2000 Fatboy shocks. I feel confident after watching your video that I'll be able to accomplish it without too much difficulty. Will let you know how it turns out.
Thats cool Mazz, good lick with it, dont feel you are alone.. drop me a line if you get stuck or if there is anything confusing.. strange ground is always a journey of discovery aye.... take care.. Del.
Bro!!! That was by far the most descriptive and practical instructional video that I have seen yet.
Great job to you and also to the camera girl, catching all the important angles!!! ML&R
Glad it helped you brother, and thank you for the great feedback, we really appreciate that.. Im lucky to have a camera girl who knows her way around a garage and knows that to capture.. Take care and have a good weekend. Del.
i was sold at..... "Absolutely Superb!". and thank you for not following suit with others... Love you guys
Great, clear explanation of how shortening/lengthening the shocks raise/lower the bike's height. Thank you !
I love the way you explain everything.
By far the most down to earth every man explanation!
Because the bolts that hold the shocks in the back were so f***ing tight I had to remove the swig arm with the shocks attached to it in order to take them off!! Thank you for this tutorial and greetings from the other side of the pond.
Sorry to hear that Alex, i know what you mean, i think i was lucky and got away with it, there's no room under there to get long breaker bars or a power tool in to break them loose aye... sometimes you just gotta rip it apart.. Glad you got it done, and thanks for your feedback.
Outstanding!!! Just picked up an 04 Night Train w/40k miles. Might just b my first modification!
Wow, probably one of the most iconic Harleys of the modern era, in my view, better than the FatBoy, but that's just personal taste, enjoy your bike and ride safe buddy.
Nice vid!...I hung the rear of my 93 Softail from the floor joists and swapped them out...lol
just bought my 2nd softtail. 1st was a '96 , 2nd one is a '93! I noticed the shocks are terrible, getting ready to upgrade to new suspension
Love your videos Del, you explain everything so well and it's like your only talking to me and you don't talk down to anyone unlike some other UA-cam videos I've watched and quickly turned off. 👍🏻
Thanks Peter, that is really kind of you, and we're so glad you enjoy the videos, we try to do them step by step and pass on the knowledge, and also (we hope!) alllows viewers to follow them and do a job successfully themselves, you're feedback is much appreciated, all the best, D&P!
Excellent Video. Comment on adjusting the stiffness. Time mark 25:25. You show how to adjust the plate using the HD spanner. I have found it difficult to adjust the plate when mounted on the bike with my 2 piece spanner that requires a 3/8" ratchet or breaker. But, my compromise was to get the spanner in place on the plate then use a 3/4" open end wrench to adjust the rod. It seems to be much easier.
Good video. I’m always impressed when someone can speak fluently without “ums” and “likes” and such. And don’t have to search for words or course don’t curse.
Thank you for those kind words Sir.
This is just a really good video. He explains some, not so obvious geometry in simple terms. They have good quality camera moves, Excellent! Thank you for producing.
Thank you most kindly Sir !
Hey Del ..with 400 plus centimetres still on the ground it may take a while but no worries it's all part of living in the far north ..thanks again my old friend.
good informative video. Brought back good memories of doing a similar job many years ago and not having a lift available we used our Hy-Mac 580C excavator to dangle the bike off. worked well cos the hy-mac didn't get tired
Ha ha.. every man should have an excavator in his life....lol!
Lmao
This is a great video - will be very useful when I get the scratch together to upgrade the suspension on my FLSTC.
I also bought the wrench from HD and used it and found it to be a royal PITA. Looking for a better solution, I stumbled on the use of a rubber strap wrench. Wrap that thin around the canister portion of the shock, hold the 9/16" wrench on the shaft and have a go at it. Works sooooo much better for me!
Just a note about torque wrenches, if you use a crows foot to get to those inaccessible bolts, there are formulas to determine true torque with extensions at any angle. Most DIY won’t have access to unique tools to do this, so I see the “strong arm” method of torquing to be adequate. Do a few push ups first though.
Hiya Del & Penny, Another real professionally done video guys. Can really notice the change over the years. Been able to catch up today, on the videos I haven't seen over the last 2 weeks, after being away in Scotland. And while there, I pointed a few folks in this direction..'See you' at the weekend. Take it easy guys. Al.
Thank you, hope you had a good trip... back on the build this Sat!
Nice job fella - I put Progressive 422 on my 99 Softail - dropped the stance by 2” and transformed the ride (until I put a springer front end on!) 🤪
Ha ha.. "Springers"// Coolest Harley forks ever.. baddest handling ever..! the price we pay for style aye mate..1
Great job Delroy... It's funny how everybody has a nice drill press, where they could put a wire wheel on it .and do an awesome job... like yourself.
Lmao.
Thank you so much,on how to show how to adjust , the preload.
I have to tighten the preload cuz I'm 190lbs... and it's bottoming out. Solo rider.
PS....I LOVE THE ADVERTISEMENT STICKER YSS, you added to your tool box, behind you, as soon as you bought the AFTER MARKET shocks, there mate!!! lmao
Cheers for posting this up as it really shows you what`s involved including for novice mechanics as it`s so well explained. I`ve worked on hundreds of bikes over the years but only a handful of Harley`s. Your softail series is most helpful and keep up the great work. I`ve actually posted up links to the softail series on the fatboy uk owners site on facebook as I was so impressed and that`s from someone who`s been working on bikes for the last 35yrs and used to have his own bike workshop business. Cheers, Matt
Glad the series could help you in some way matt, and thank you for yo0ur kind support with posting the links, it's always good to hear the videos get shared and passed around to other can benefit too.... Thanks again buddy, and keep in touch.. Del.
At 23:02 it appears that you used the shock height spacers and then a bolt to secure the shock. Is that how one should use the extra YYS shock height spacers or was that for convenience later if you want to change the ride height?
What is the size of the shock lock nut on the preload spring? I would image one would need a stubby wrenches for the 9/16" and the larger preload lock nut to make this adjustment easier while the shock is on the bike.
Hey Del and Penny! Really great video! Del you really are a perfectionist, which is why I love to see your work. I'm not sure if you knew, but I bought a 1994 Heritage when it was new. It is now, 23 years old! It has 32,000 miles on it with the original shocks. I'm sure, just due to age it needs this upgrade and most likely new rubber seals. I will invest in new seals should I upgrade. I have a couple other projects right now to deal with like a new roof for our home. Storm/Wind damage recently removed several shingles. Thank goodness for home-owner insurance to help with some of the costs. Great camera work Penny, looks really professional! Lastly, so sorry for the horrible attack on your Mother Country today. I really feel so bad for the families who lost loved ones today. Just know your Yankee Cousins do feel your lose. Hopefully, together we can defeat this enemy. God Bless you both. Also, if I may, Long live England!!!! Love her people!!!!!!!
Hi Scott & Debbie, how lovely to hear from you again... we often think of you and hope you are ok, I didn't know you had a Heritage, I almost bought one before I got the FatBoy, they truly are a stunning bike! Good luck with your projects on it.
Thank you for your very kind words on the events of yesterday, will these people never realise that their attempts to de-rail Western freedom are pointless and meaningless, they will never have any effect and they will never achieve their ends by these means... when I ride my Harley Davidson I do it with a capital sized middle finger in the face of these people, they will never impede our lives or slow down our progress, we are peaceful, civilised human beings, and they are no more than pointless savages... the civilised world unites in situations like this and it's so good to know we have your love and respect from across the pond...... Take care both of you, and ride very safe, all the best, D&Px
Great Vid, have just rebuilt front end of my soft tail, new wheel, twin disc's etc, now you've made me think about the rear end, the wife ain't happy lol
Good vid Del....here in the USA I think I would have gone with Progressive Suspension softail shocks but there are several to choose from.
Excellent video and kudos to Penny for the excellent camera work!
Why thank you Matthew, nice to have my work recognised... much appreciated, and glad you enjoyed! Ride safe, Penny!
I also had to tell you that your camera girl is awesome she’s spot on 👍❤️😎 now it’s time to buy a couple of shirts and some coffee mugs😂
Hey brother, thank you so much for your kind words, it's wonderful when somebody notices the post production, it is at last as much work as the filming itself! Thank you for your kind support, it's very much appreciated, enjoy your weekend!
Absolutely The BEST 👌 video ever on softail shocks! Thank you for the step by step clear instruction and the why.
You're most welcome sir. Glad it was helpful!
Love your videos! Today did the oil change with a purge as per other video. Best oil change i ever did! Thank you! Just a reminder, dont forget to replace those two cam chain tensioners and check the crank run out.
great vid as usual. for hard to get at places there is a small tool shaped like a ring spanner with a ring on one end and a square drive on the other end for a torque wrench. A small recalculation in torque is needed. They can help in tight spaces.
Yeah, and stubby spanners for working under the bike, and ratchet spanners for bolts like this, and a two arm lift.... oh how i need more tools... lol Thanks buddy.!:-)
spanner porn... mmmmmmm kinky!
I've seen ones with open spanner ends, they're called 'crow's foot' spanners. Most seem to come with a 3/8 square drive, but adapters are no problem...
Howzit Del, great video, I've been putting off upgrading the Wife's Deluxe, as I was worried at the ease of access and complexity in changing the shocks, you've made it less daunting. Thanks Bud.
hey Marc.. Howit... yes, its a simple job.. just the problems of getting under the bike and supporting it... but all you need is a trolley jack, and a few wooden blocks.. Good luck my broer
Awesome channel! Makes videos were anyone can understand them! Thanks for making my day! Very through in his videos! Takes all the extra steps to do the job right the first time!👍
Wow, thank you for your kind and generous words of support.
I like the spacers on the YSS, I put on the Progressive 422's and they made a world of difference for rebound.
lol.. good man, you know the score alright! Old school Britool stubby set on ebay for £28.95 as we speak. They're the sort of thing you'll hardly ever use but kick yourself if you don't have one when you need it. A man can not have too many tools!
I don't even have a harley but love watching your videos. big thumbs up
Thanks mate, appreciate your support!
Perfect as usual ✌🏻❤️🇨🇦
@25:30 you say the shock preload is less while turning anti clockwise,however,the harley manual says this increases preload?
anti clockwise facing which way..! you'll soon feel the spring getting tighter.!
@@Moonfleet41 im looking at the shock as it is in your vice,thats th eway it is on the bike.my softail is still hard after doing it the "manual"way.i know theyre "pull"shocks.just confused is all.
@@bertayoing Easiest way if it gets confusing is just to wind full travel to each end, and pick the spot you're happy with...
@@Moonfleet41 ok cheers del,i have posted a pic of what the manual says on your facebook page,it still doesnt make sense to me.haha.
Facing towards the adjusting face, turning anti-clockwise increases the preload.
Hey del thanks for another great video awesome mechanic you are my man, what a great idea putting the wheel on a drill press your the man!!
Tell Penny I said hello.
Rich from Queens New York!
Thanks so much Rich👍, great to hear from you as always.. Penny says Hi.
Del, thank you very much for all your work to share your knowledge on UA-cam! I have a couple of HD's and the one that is my baby is my 2005 Anniversary Edition Fatboy (Golden Boy). I'm going to do some more research but I have been thinking about suspension upgrades. Again, great video and thanks for your work (hard work) in sharing with us all. Ride Safe! Brian - Denver, CO, USA.
Hey Brian, great to hear from you Sir, and a gold anniversary FatBoy is an icon, my 05 Fatboy was the regular anniversary model, but the gold one is seriously rare, most people don't realise they're 1550cc and the badges alone are priceless these days as they're impossible to find now, so take care of her, as I'm sure you do! You'll love the YSS shocks if you're going to fit them, they're a great upgrade and will smooth out the slightly harsh feel on the small ripples in an unkept road, and best of all, on a long fast sweeping bend, it can keep that terrifying death weave from developing, which Softails can suffer with. Ride safe and keep in touch buddy, all the best, Del
Hi Del & Penny, fantastic delivery once again, great explanation, great camera work too Penny, keep up the fantastic work guy's.
Thanks Colin... much appreciate matey, its a lot more work now, so great to get the feedback..!
Meticulous and clean. Delboy brings it again 👍👍
From Southern California ~ Ride Forever! 🦅🇺🇸
Thank you Sir, for your kind words of support.
Very thorough! Thanks! Great video and great camera work!
Thank you. Much appreciated!
I subscribed today because you really break it down to the basics
Thank you Roy, and welcome aboard sir.
Hey Del, I thought I'd just let you know, for the first time since 1989 I've bought a non Japanese bike, just bought a mint 1998 Triumph Daytona t595, 17000 miles, over the moon and back, collect tomorrow!
Awesome bike James... and the full power version, unlike the SpeedTriple that got the castrated one... you will have loads of fun and make sure it's as loud as possible cos that glorious triple with the right exhaust can sound like a Merlin aero engine... lol ! Enjoy your new bike...!
It's got an art silencer. Keep your ears open at noon when I pick it up. Lol
Haven't had time to watch any of the videos for a while but you guys have really stepped up the editing game! Credit where it's due!
Thanks Tom, we're glad you notice, its a lot more work now.. but well worth it we think. .!
Most definitely worth it! The extra effort is appreciated!
Good video mate! You guys are getting really good at this stuff!
Thanks Mackie, appreciate your kind words - see ya soon!
getting?? he was born GOOD!
Excellent advice, description, and technique. Subscribed.
Thank you Sir. Welcome aboard!
This was a great informative video! Thanks for making it as I am about to change my softail shocks and was looking for pointers.
Glad it was helpful mate, best of of luck with your projects!
Thanks for uploading. Used this to install some progressive shocks. Worked great
As usual... Concise and wise words. Thank you sir from Gothenburg, Sweden.
You are very welcome Sir, and thank you so much for your kind support. D&Pxx
Best teacher, thank you.
Thank you!
I love that you got a Softie!!! My favorite/dream bike which I hope to have one day. I always wondered how Softail shocks were done, very nice vid!
Thanks buddy, don't wait spend too long waiting for your dreams... life is too short buddy, and Harley make it easier than ever to get on the bike you want, and the best thing with Harley Davidsons, is they retain their value better than any other vehicle on earth! The price you pay new, is practically the price you will get back for it in 10yrs time, provided you look after it... and you can't say that about much these days!
Top video again, Del. The potential for this channel is huge
Thanks for your kind words Ricky, that all depends on who's watching!
very, very clear instructions! thanks for your help on this.
Awesome video! My mechanic told me he had to remove the rear wheel to do this job!😈
Hey Del,
Thank you for another great instructional video. I'm anxiously waiting for which was a awful winter to finally melt away . I have a 2003 FatBoy and your correct that the stock shocks have their limitations. I'm thankful for your video and once we lose all of this white crap I think I'll look into a upgrade.
Thank you to you and your lovely camera woman.
Hi buddy, yes indeed, Penny puts in a lot of effort, and makes me look good, and let's face it, I need all the help I can get lol ! Horrible waiting for spring ain't it?? But don't worry, couple of rides in the sunshine and the winter literally melts away!
Thanks for another great video. I just scored a 2006 CVO Fat Boy. I will probably look for those shocks after I do a few other things like maybe upgrading my brakes to the new Brembo ones for a little bit better stopping power.
Congratultions on your CVO, wishing you many happy miles my friend.
The preload adjust alone, without the “washers” could lower or raise the bike? My bike is too low and I’m think in zip I adjust the preload could make it more higher
I just found your channel. Awesome! You know your stuff!....Belfast, PA..USA
Welcome aboard wizbang, and thank you for your kind words..
Once again amazing informational video Del and Penny, thank you.
I've had one of the rear-most shockabsorber mounting bolts fail on my 1998 Softail. I've measured the threads and I think the bolts on mine are 1/2" UNC as it has 13 threads per inch too. I'm pretty sure they're larger than an M12. I can't seem to check this on the interweb though 😏
I have one of those bolts that snapped inside the threaded inserts on the swingarm! Can I drill it and extract it or is there some other solution to this problem?? Thank for your great video
Thanks for the video, this helped a lot. I just ordered new ones and will change mine this winter.
hello, very interesting video, I have a question, but are you sure that if you turn the ring counterclockwise you release the spring? I know that when you turn the ring counterclockwise you compress the spring, thanks for your help
Nice video. Thank you. I have to change out my shocks before the warm weather comes.
Good luck with it Todd, hope it works out for you !
@@Moonfleet41 I changed my shocks on my Fatboy to the Progressive 422 Heavy Duty. I am having a hell of a time learning about the preload (clockwise or counterclockwise). To my understanding the strength of the spring is always there, the preload places a little pressure on the spring so the ride is a bit stiffer. I went with these shocks because the wife and I and all her hair products (kidding) tend to weigh it down and the stock shocks would bottom out. Does anyone know if progressive is clockwise or counterclockwise to increase preload? The other videos on here show the guy saying one thing but doing the opposite. Logic tells me (like removing a cap on a bottle) that counterclockwise would give the spring more room; hence less preload. But I have heard it's the opposite. I just did a turn of counter clockwise and my bike felt like a tank. So I'll play with it again this weekend. btw., your videos are great, you explain the things well and remind us of important things. Thank you.
great video for this job - I wish my shocks on my '06 Deluxe would pop out of the frame as easily as yours do! I finally got the big bolts broken loose and removed but the shocks seem too long to drop down, even when I jack up the swing arm. There must be a trick to this I don't know...
Thanks Paul, You may need to either drop the wheel out or remove the fender to lift the swing arm high enough to drop the shocks out..!
when you add spacer to the shock doesnt that change the drive belt length?
How does spacer affect ride for passenger
Thank you for this instruction video. Just wondering how the ride ended up with the new shocks as well as the height of the bike. I thought that with the one adjustment ring that you put on the new shocks it actually made them longer than the original shocks (contrary to what you claimed) - and therefore would lower the bike. How did they feel once you got on the bike and rode it?
You guys are really good. Thanks for sharing your expertice!
I think you can torque the bolts using the wrench that fits as an extender, coupling your torque wrench to the other end of the one that fits in.
You have to use a simple equation to get the equivalent torque setting using the extender. I think it's something like: Given X the lenght of the extender, Y the length of the torque wrench and N the torque setting to get in the bolt, the torque setting M to apply using the extension has to be X*N/(X+Y) OR SOMETHING SIMILAR, just google it please, don't trust my memory :).
Ah and I think the angle between the extension and the torque wrench doesn't matter, not sure though.
Nice video btw!
Didnt want to touch on this because its very confusing... but yes, Snap-On sell a 1 to1 adapter, its like a tiny spanner with a flat 3/4 ring one end, and 3/8 square drive the other.. so they market that as a simple solution..but yes, then the torque value needs to be recalculated, and you need to need it as a daily job because its £60... but like i said, in detail.. the bolts under there aren't critical, so just lots of threadlock and make sure they are wound all the way home...so often ive found these bolts not even fully tightened in and the washers rattling about..!!!!
Very detail video and explanation. Thank you for your hard work.
My pleasure, glad it helped.
I just added a set of 422 SERIES SHOCKS W/RAP from progressive suspension on my Harley breakout pro street. Night and day ride honestly best thing I have done to this pig of a bike
Ha ha.. "Pig of a Bike" Harleys are true dat..!
The shock bolt that goes into the swing arm has snapped during a ride. I’m assuming that I’ll need to remove the whole swing arm to get half a chance at extracting it?
Bloody awesome mate. So easy to understand. Love ya work.
Thanks Greg. Much appreciated.
Thank you very much been watching your channel sence I bought my sportster about three and a half years ago. And now I got a softail night train also 😎😎😎
Wow awesome, love the Night Train, probably the most bad ass Harley they've made, along with the Sotfail Springer, I look at today's line up of new Harleys and wonder where they're going sometimes (that's if they even know themselves!)... one in every 30 Harleys that comes out becomes a future classic, and you havae one there for sure!
I don’t even own a soft tail and still enjoyed the video .
You’re even better at explaining than you are at doing.
Well I wouldn’t say that ,but I love your videos .
Thanks ) it use to be America
I don’t know I guess they will find that name racist before to much longer .
I’ve never seen a group of leaders and media work so hard to divide a country .
Thanks )for your great videos takes my mind off the idiots
Excellent buddy, thanks for this. Was always curious about the tech specs around Softail shocks.
Hi Scott, good to hear from ya, they are a funny ol' design aye, but still my favourite Harley model!
Awesome video guys! You're like real pros now. I have a 2009 Harley Softail Deluxe so I will be watching closely anything you do to your Fatboy. By the way, Penny is hot and love her laugh. You are a lucky man, Delboy.
Hey Terry, thanks so much buddy.. we've been pushing hard on the post production over the last few months, it takes a lot longer, but its all worth it when we get such kind comments... And Penny says thankyou, and yes, she knows im lucky...lol! Take care buddy... Del.
love the music in the recent videos! much more relaxing than the stuff you've used in the past. Belt drive is great sometimes eh - on a lot of bikes (mine) that area gets covered in chain gunge!
Thanks so much for your video on shocks Del , it,s helped me out a lot . Cheers mate from Australia
Thanks Aussie, glad the video could help you mate... and good to hear from all the way from Down Under.. Enjoy your coming summer, its 6 degrees and sleeting here today..!!!
@@Moonfleet41 Del at the moment it,s hot down here mate so you,ll defineatly notice the difference , so bring some sun screen 50+ with you , specially if your gonna hit our beautiful beaches . Enjoy ol mate . Cheers Aussie
Man I could watch your fatboy videos all day. Iam getting to upgrade my 04 with yss kit and you just made it politically correct.Thank You.
Thank. U ..u explain things so good Now i think i can work on my bike .
Great vid and good clear explanation and visual 👍
Thank you very much! This is an excellent, comprehensive video.
You're very welcome Sir, glad you enjoyed it!
Great video I have a heritage softail 94 I bought a pair of progressive shocks 422. I noticed the adjustment holes in mine face the rear wheel not like your model that faces towards the front wheel.
My question the shocks are terrible stiff and they are from factory all the way screwed clockwise, from your video what I understand is that if the spring is completely pushed inside would this make the suspension more stiff? In other words to make it softer should I release pressure from the spring?
Never mind... I found out that clockwise in softail Evo models is softer ride less preload. The shock in evo softails have the adjuster plate facing rear of bike and on newer models it’s on the front. The counterclockwise is actually harder, guessing that these shocks are less softer than OEM.
Great information on the oil change. Thanks for the video 👍
Terrific details and I admire both of you for taking the time to film and then share with all of us. It takes the concerns out of the job with the unknown until you do it the first time for sure. I'd be curious if the oem hardware might corrode faster with the factory paint removed, even though it has a ss content. With everything apart I was expecting re-painting it or suggesting it before re-assembly. Can you comment on the current condition of the hardware now. We all try to ride on dry days but the weather doesn't always cooperate. Thanks again for the terrific video!!!
Thanks for your kind words of support, im glad the video could help you out. i sold this bike a while ago now, so cannot say how the fasteners are holding up, but all things require attention even if only on a once a year inspection to make sure everything is holding up... you can also coat them up with some heavy weight lithium grease for the wet months and that should keep them clean...
Really great video, just got a new suspension and I also got a 2009 softail but man I don't know how you got those back bolt off, they are so tight that I don't know how to do it.
Great editing work Del , love the tunes 🎶
Thanks Richard, appreciate your comments on the music.. its hard to find music that everyone likes.. pretty much every genre we use gets criticism from someone or other.. so its nice to get some good feedback... take carer.. Del.
Moonfleet41 let the flamers flame! They'll be back for the next video, just like the rest of us. You can't make everybody happy with music. It's too subjective. What's horrendous noise to some people is going to make somebody else smile.
It's your channel. Suite your mood, and don't give it another moment's thought.
Thanks Jim... encouraging words as usual.... take care. Del.