Everything You Need to Know About Jack Placement on a Harley Tri Glide

Introduction

Jacking up a Harley Tri Glide is a crucial maintenance and repair task, allowing you to access the undercarriage and perform various services. However, finding the correct jack points is essential to ensure safety and prevent damage. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the precise locations where to place a jack on your Harley Tri Glide.

Front End Jacking

1. Main Frame Tubes: Locate the sturdy frame tubes running parallel to the ground. One tube is positioned on each side of the engine.
2. Jack Plate Receivers: Inspect the frame tubes for built-in jack plate receivers. These are small indentations designed specifically for jack placement.
3. Position the Jack: Carefully slide the jack under the frame tube or into the jack plate receiver. Ensure the jack is centered and stable.

Rear End Jacking

1. Axle Sliders: Look for adjustable axle sliders mounted on the rear axle. These sliders provide convenient jacking points.
2. Swingarm Pivot Bolt: Alternatively, you can jack up the rear end using the swingarm pivot bolt located near the rear wheel.
3. Jack Location: Position the jack between the axle slider and swingarm pivot bolt on one side. Repeat the process on the opposite side for additional stability.

Safety Considerations

• Always engage the parking brake to prevent the motorcycle from rolling.
• Use jack stands or chocks to support the motorcycle after jacking it up. Never rely solely on the jack.
• Inspect the jack and jack stands for any signs of damage or wear before use.
• If you are not confident in your ability to jack up the motorcycle safely, consult a qualified mechanic.

Table 1: Front End Jacking Points

Table 2: Rear End Jacking Points

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Jacking Incorrectly: Avoid placing the jack on the exhaust pipes, fenders, or plastic components, as these can be damaged.
• Overloading the Jack: Ensure the jack is rated to handle the weight of your motorcycle, including any additional equipment.
• Unstable Jacking: Always check that the jack is stable and secure before raising the motorcycle.
• Neglecting Safety Precautions: Failure to engage the parking brake, use jack stands, or inspect the jack can lead to accidents.

Why Jacking Matters

Jacking up your Harley Tri Glide enables you to:

• Perform Maintenance: Access the underside of the motorcycle for routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, brake pad replacement, and belt adjustments.
• Repair Components: Remove and repair damaged parts, such as wheels, suspension components, and exhaust systems.
• Install Accessories: Mount aftermarket accessories, such as luggage racks, crash bars, and footboards.

Benefits of Proper Jack Placement

• Stability: Correctly placing the jack ensures the motorcycle remains stable and secure while elevated.
• Damage Prevention: By using the designated jacking points, you minimize the risk of damaging the motorcycle's frame or components.
• Ease of Access: Proper jack placement provides ample clearance for working on the undercarriage without obstructed access.

Effective Strategies

• Use a Quality Jack: Invest in a jack specifically designed for motorcycles, such as a hydraulic floor jack or scissor jack.
• Clean Jacking Points: Ensure the jacking points are clean and free of debris or corrosion to prevent slippage.
• Lubricate Jack Points: Apply a thin layer of lubricant to the jacking points to facilitate sliding the jack smoothly into place.

Stories and Lessons

• Story 1: A rider accidentally placed the jack under the exhaust pipe, causing it to bend and require replacement. Lesson: Always check the jacking points carefully before lifting the motorcycle.
• Story 2: A mechanic used an undersized jack to raise a Tri Glide, resulting in the jack collapsing and the motorcycle falling. Lesson: Ensure the jack is rated to handle the weight of your motorcycle.
• Story 3: A rider neglected to engage the parking brake, causing the motorcycle to roll off the jack and suffer damage. Lesson: Always engage the parking brake and use jack stands when jacking up a motorcycle.

Table 3: Recommended Jacking Tools

Conclusion

Knowing where to place a jack on a Harley Tri Glide is crucial for ensuring safety, preventing damage, and performing maintenance effectively. By following the guidelines outlined in this guide, you can jack up your motorcycle with confidence and enjoy the benefits of proper jack placement. Remember to always prioritize safety and consult a mechanic if you are unsure about any aspect of the jacking process.