softail suspension adjustment

[wilro]

Hi Mike, I`m new in the HD world. I got my first HD, it is a Deluxe model. I`m very satisfied with it. I live down here in Brazil and there aren`t much people who konows how to work in HD`s.
My question is about the adjustment in the preload suspension, wich is the only adjust that i can do to solve my problem. I ride with my girl and the bike is very plush, i woul`d like to harden a little bit and test if is going to be better I have 70 KILOS and my girl is around 60`s (130 kilos=285 pounds).
The mechanic in the HD store says that is very dificult to adjust because he has to take the suspension out of the bike to tight the nut. Besides, they don`t know how many turns they have to turn to stiff up the suspender.
I don`t konow if you got my problem. i don`t konow if i shoul`d do that in a bike or take it out..And i don`t konw if i do half turn, 1 turn,2 turns, whatever....
What do you say about?
Thank you very much
Wilro

[Mike]

Refer to your service manual maintenance section. You'll need a special tool H-D part number HD-94455-89 and a wrench for the jam nuts (1-1/16). Adjust the OUT (toward front of bike) to increase preload. Adjust both the same amount (put a paint mark on the adjuster plates to help gauge how far they've turned). I do not remember the amount of range they have but I can tell you that two turns is substantial, try different settings until you find just the right one for you. Be sure to tighten the jam nuts when done.
Thanks, Mike

[wilro]

thank you for that.
My best regards.
wilro