Help Installing New Grips

[robertlecomte]

I have ordered some new grips, and I am looking fo some tips on installing them. The instructions that came with the grips says that I need the service manual - which I don't have at this time. I am wondering if I need to disconnect cables etc. Also looking for some lubricating tips so the grips go on smoothly.

Any help is appreciated.

Thanks, Bob

[Krayven Sumhead]

There needs to be a cardboard shim installed between the lever and the front brake switch or the switch can be damaged. (I used a peice of a matchbook) Not to be a smart ass, but having the service manual makes thangs go a lot smoother. Lot less chance of ficking something up. Also when removing the switch housings, make sure you are using the correct size torx driver. (The heads seem to strip-out easily.) Soapy water makes for a good lubricant and cables will have to be switched between old and new grips. (No big deal, just pay attention).

[robertlecomte]

Thanks - I think I will get the repair manual.

Bob

[cyn]

Look under "Accessories" for a thread on installing grips that I had started. Gary put in there a GREAT diagram etc. I put them on myself with no problems. You shouldn't need any lubricant to put the new ones on, I didn't. I put the HD flame grips on and I really like them. It was pretty easy. Just make sure you keep a hold of the brass ferrels? (thingamigis) They have a tendency to take to the air. Good luck!

[GOTWA]

Originally Posted by cyn

Look under "Accessories" for a thread on installing grips that I had started. Gary put in there a GREAT diagram etc. I put them on myself with no problems. You shouldn't need any lubricant to put the new ones on, I didn't. I put the HD flame grips on and I really like them. It was pretty easy. Just make sure you keep a hold of the brass ferrels? (thingamigis) They have a tendency to take to the air. Good luck!

I remember that thread and Cyn is right, pretty much all you need to know. Look it up with the search function.

And definately get the manual, little things like that piece of cardboard are often overlooked and result in damaged in switches and bigger headaches.

Oh and a note on the torx heads, there are two different sizes on the housings. 26 and 28 if I remember right.

[socal1200R]

Not sure how applicable this is to Harleys, but here's some hints from when I switched grips on a Moto Guzzi I used to own. Use some compressed air, and use a screwdriver to open up some space between the grip and handlebar, and blow some air in there. The grip should come right up, and come off pretty easily. For installing the new grips, what I did was spray some hairspray on the inside of the grips, and that made the grips go on nice and easy. Plus, when the hairspray dries, it gets pretty sticky and keeps them in place (especially the left one).

Good luck...

[skratch]

hope you don't have the same situation i did. my cables were just a tad short, so i had to take the handlebars off to change my grips out. the cables are not too short when everything is together, just too short to reach out past the end of the grip. if you don't understand what i mean, you will when you get to that part. just take it nice and easy and pay attention to how things are lined up and you won't have any problems.

[GOTWA]

Originally Posted by skratch

hope you don't have the same situation i did. my cables were just a tad short, so i had to take the handlebars off to change my grips out. the cables are not too short when everything is together, just too short to reach out past the end of the grip. if you don't understand what i mean, you will when you get to that part. just take it nice and easy and pay attention to how things are lined up and you won't have any problems.

Why would you need the cables to reach out past the grip? You must have seated the ferrules into the grip and then tried to install the grip right?

If you put the grip in place and then seat the ferrules (cables) that shouldn't be an issue. Granted getting the ferrules into place can be a PITA.

[KC_Sporty_Gal]

With the factory service manual I changed out my grips myself. If you run into any problems and need a specific suggestion I might be able to help. But definately get the service manual and give it a whirl. Also good is the parts manual which has some great diagrams. Once you see a picture of how everything fits in there it all comes together.

And make sure you wedge that piece of cardboard in there.... I forgot to do that and now I need to replace the switch. Waiting until I put my wide glide bars on and will replace it then.

[misterwizard1]

The throttle cable adjustments to the carb need to be loosened to facilitate the cable removal and installation. If you don't loosen the adjustments, I guess you remove the bars to change!