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Rear springs

Discussion in 'XJ Modifications' started by tsmith, Sep 6, 2010.

  1. tsmith

    tsmith Member

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    I have the inclosed shocks on my 82 maxim. I havent taken them apart yet. I was wondering before I did if anyone knows if they are a spring inclosed? My plan is to lower my bike 2-3 inches. I figured Id trim the springs.
     
  2. Militant_Buddhist

    Militant_Buddhist Member

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    don't know the specifics on your suspension but in general, don't trim the springs, figure out a lowering link.

    making the springs shorter w/o making them stiffer is a recipe for bottoming out
     
  3. bigfitz52

    bigfitz52 Well-Known Member Premium Member

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    First off, you need to see if you HAVE 2-3 inches to play with; then the best plan would be to get a set of appropriately shorter new shocks and springs.
     
  4. Cmccully04

    Cmccully04 Member

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    x2. He only speaks the truth, and im guessing that most of the time from expieriece. :lol:
     
  5. tsmith

    tsmith Member

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    thanks guys. Yeah i have the room to play with. I thought about getting some sportster springs, but i have really no money for this build so everything is modifying what I already have on the bike or around the garage. Now im just woundering wouldn't a spring be just as stiff even if it was 2 inches shorter. Just being shorter your more likely to bottom out right?
     
  6. amfmtxca

    amfmtxca Member

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    I read somewhere on here to use 87 - 89 Virago shocks to lower, I think it was about 1-2" I need to do that so both heels will be flat on the ground at a stop.
     
  7. Rhetoriclost

    Rhetoriclost New Member

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    After a long time searching for some shorter springs I FINALLY found a new set off a Sportster (new) for $75.00. Not only did they work perfectly (after a bit of tinkering with the rubbers) but the beefy chrome looks quite nice.

    I know I got a scream of a deal but they would be well worth it if you have to pay more....

    Before:

    [​IMG]

    After:

    [​IMG]

    [​IMG]
     
  8. Cmccully04

    Cmccully04 Member

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    yeah they look alot better, but Keep them waxed. NO JOKE! i've had a few sportsters and if u dont keep them waxed they will rust and look like shit quickly!
     
  9. ST0CKM0NK3Y

    ST0CKM0NK3Y Member

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    How did you do your seat like that? Did you just cut it and tuck the leather under? It looks nice as hell man.
     
  10. heelflip131313

    heelflip131313 Member

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    Does it matter what year sportster shock to use?
     

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