Bonneville America Forums Forums Technical Forums General Tech Stock Shock Adjustment

Newbie question: is there a special tool needed to adjust the preload settings on stock shocks on a 2006 TBA?
Thanks...Hobbs

An allen wrench "L shaped" tool that will fit in the hole. Then use it as a lever to tighten or loosen the shocks. Helps if you assist the torque using your free hand to twist the shock in the direction you are levering it.

Thanks!

It helps to unload the weight off the rear, a bike jack or center stand comes in real handy here and make adjusting easier.

What helps is not having the saddlebags in the way! Unloading does make it easier unless it is a pita to rearrange the garage to get to the jack. You can do it easily enough without the jack. (kinda why I use my free hand to help twist the shock as I am too lazy to get the jack out.) Just make sure your fingers are not in the springs when your 'significant other', who is hanging around, handing you beers, watching you screw up, hearing you curse, and well, and just gets bored and decides to check out the comfort of the saddle as you adjust the shocks.

P.S.: Seriously, if you are tightening the shocks you really do not want your fingers between the springs.

Reminds me of the "Brick the camel" joke

Helps also to smear a little vasoline on the humps. Any easy to clean off lube will do.