I have read some threads, but I'm still confused...trying to put new rigid mounts on along with new bar. Can't slide out old plates. - Strut bar is blocking it, tire blocks inside bolt from
completely getting out, and i dont have a lift. How difficult is this job? Do I need to unbolt
top of shocks. I'm hoping to do this myself.

 

You'll need to jack up the back of the bike to gain clearance. Removing the shocks is super simple. The job as a whole is really simple. Buy a jack or lift. You'll need it periodically anyway.

 

Thanks. Do you advise disconecting battery, removing seat? I would just have to unbolt top bolt of shock, not completely take it off right?

 

I'm not sure how different the '13 is from my '99 but I had to remove all the bolts from the fender struts to get the plates out. That included the turn signals. The seat and shock ~should~ be able to remain as long as you can get under the fender to remove all the bolts. Then the plate should slide out. If you lift up the bike and the tire is still in the way, you'll have to take the shocks off to allow the swingarm to drop even further.

Removing the shocks is easy. Just two nuts each and they slip right off.

 

Here's what you're probably looking at, or something similar...

Plate (notice the notch in the one hole to allow it to pass over the turn signal wires)
Strut (cut off the bike)
cover
fender

The bolts go thru all four.

 

Yes. That's it. Appreciate your help

 

No problem. Good luck!

 

It's not too hard to do; get the rear wheel off the ground. Between my J&S lift and my rear shocks at the #4 preload I've got enough room to reach in without removing the lower shock bolts but then again, I am a scrawny long arm monkey

This thread HERE may help you out...

 

I didn't jack mine up. However it would have been easier if I had. I just unbolted it from the strut, both sides, and it slid out. Place something over the fender so you don't scratch it, when removing the sissy bar.

 

I did see that thread...a lot going on there, I didn't think to remove fender. I'll get it on the lift take out
the inside bolts, then outer bolt on strut cover. Here, I 'll try to remove the strut and slide it off. If I need to pop the seat and remove the shocks I'' do it too. I have to get torque measurements. Thanks man.