Are you ready to take your Harley Davidson to the next level? Installing a sissy bar can not only enhance the look of your bike, but also provide extra support and comfort for your passenger.
But how exactly do you go about installing one? In this discussion, we'll walk you through the step-by-step process of installing a sissy bar on your Harley Davidson, ensuring a secure and successful installation.
So, if you're ready to elevate your riding experience, let's get started.
Key Takeaways
- The installation of a sissy bar on a Harley Davidson requires specific tools such as a T40 Torx bit and a half-inch wrench.
- It is recommended to remove rear signals and bulbs for better access during installation.
- The use of Loctite on bolts is recommended to prevent rattling.
- Proper alignment of bolt holes and double-checking tightness is crucial for a balanced and symmetrical installation.
Tools Needed for Installation
To successfully install a sissy bar on your Harley Davidson, you'll need a Torx T40 for the installation process. This tool is essential as it allows you to remove the stock bolts from the rear fender, making way for the installation of your custom sissy bar. The Torx T40 provides the necessary torque to securely fasten the sissy bar to your motorcycle.
In addition to the Torx T40, you'll also need a half-inch wrench to hold the nut in place while tightening the bolts. This ensures that the sissy bar is properly aligned and securely attached to your Harley Davidson.
Before beginning the installation process, it's recommended to remove the rear signals and bulbs to gain better access to the mounting points. This will make the installation easier and prevent any damage to the signals or bulbs.
To prevent rattling and ensure a stable installation, it's advised to use Loctite on the bolts. This thread-locking adhesive will keep the bolts securely in place, even during long rides.
Lastly, using a washer for spacing and stability is highly recommended. This will provide additional support and help distribute the weight evenly, ensuring a safe and secure installation.
Step-By-Step Installation Guide
Start by positioning the sissy bar upright on the rear fender of your Harley Davidson. Make sure you have the correct sissy bar upright part number for your Harley Sportster. Once the sissy bar is in position, locate the mounting holes on the fender. These holes are where the sissy bar will be attached to the bike.
Here is a step-by-step installation guide to help you liberate your Harley Davidson:
- Insert the screws through the mounting holes on the sissy bar and align them with the holes on the fender.
- Use pliers to hold the lock nuts in place while tightening the screws. Make sure they're securely fastened.
- Double-check the tightness of the nuts and bolts to ensure the sissy bar is properly installed and won't come loose during rides.
- Periodically inspect the sissy bar for wear or damage, and tighten any loose nuts or bolts as needed.
Remember to seek guidance from experienced individuals or forums if you're installing a sissy bar for the first time. It's also recommended to consider purchasing a sissy bar from a brand that offers easy-to-install designs, such as Viking Bags.
Now you can enjoy the freedom and added support that a sissy bar brings to your Harley Davidson.
Removing Stock Bolts From the Struts
Using a T40 Torx bit, carefully loosen and remove the stock bolts from the struts on your Harley Davidson.
Start by locating the bolts on the struts, which are typically found near the rear fender.
Insert the T40 Torx bit into the head of the bolt and turn it counterclockwise to loosen the bolt. Make sure to apply even pressure and avoid stripping the bolt.
Once the bolt is loose, you can use a half-inch wrench to hold the nut in place while you continue to turn the bolt with the Torx bit. This will prevent the nut from spinning along with the bolt.
Keep in mind that it's crucial to fully loosen the bolts before attempting to remove them.
Once the bolts are completely loose, carefully remove them from the struts. Be sure to keep track of all the removed hardware for reassembly later.
Before proceeding with the installation of the sissy bar, inspect the struts for any signs of wear or damage. If any issues are found, it's recommended to address them before continuing with the installation process.
Aligning the Bolt Holes Front and Rear
Ensure perfect alignment of the bolt holes on the sissy bar with the docking hardware on the fender strut by visually inspecting the front and rear bolt holes to confirm they're in line. This step is crucial to ensure a secure and stable installation of the sissy bar on your Harley Davidson.
Here are four important points to consider when aligning the bolt holes front and rear:
- Use a flashlight: In order to accurately inspect the alignment of the bolt holes, it's recommended to use a flashlight. This will provide additional visibility and help you identify any misalignment.
- Verify alignment: Take a close look at the front and rear bolt holes to ensure they're in perfect alignment. It's important to check both sides of the sissy bar to guarantee a balanced and symmetrical installation.
- Make adjustments if needed: If you notice any misalignment between the bolt holes, carefully adjust the position of the sissy bar until they're perfectly aligned. This may require slight movements or rotations to achieve the desired alignment.
- Double-check before tightening: Before tightening the bolts, double-check the alignment of the bolt holes to ensure a secure fit. It's crucial to have proper alignment before proceeding to the next step of the installation process.
Installing the Supplied Bolts Into the Holes
To securely fasten the sissy bar to your Harley Davidson, align the mounting holes of the sissy bar with the corresponding holes on the bike's frame. Once the alignment is done, it's time to install the supplied bolts into the holes. This step is crucial to ensure a secure attachment between the sissy bar and the bike's frame. Follow the instructions below to complete this task:
| Step | Procedure |
|---|---|
| 1 | Thread the supplied bolts into the holes by hand. Start with one bolt and gradually tighten it until it is snug. |
| 2 | Repeat the process for the remaining bolts, making sure they are all threaded in evenly. |
| 3 | Once all the bolts are threaded in, use a wrench or pliers to hold the lock nut in place. This will prevent it from rotating while you tighten the bolt. |
| 4 | Begin tightening the bolts using the appropriate tool, such as a socket wrench or Allen wrench, depending on the type of bolts provided. Be careful not to overtighten, as this could damage the threads or strip the holes. |
| 5 | Double-check the alignment and tightening of the bolts to ensure a secure fit. Make any necessary adjustments if needed. |
| 6 | Refer to the installation manual for specific torque specifications and any additional steps that may be required. |
Conclusion
In conclusion, installing a sissy bar on a Harley Davidson requires careful attention to detail and the use of proper tools. By following a step-by-step guide and ensuring all components are secure and tightened, you can successfully complete the installation.
Remember to regularly inspect the sissy bar for wear or damage and seek guidance from experienced individuals or forums.
Joining a community of Harley-Davidson enthusiasts will provide ongoing support. With these precautions, your sissy bar installation will be safe and successful, like a well-oiled machine.
