I installed a no shock removal kit for my 2013 Softail Delux the install went pretty easy, but know I feel every little bump. I also did a Progressive 2" drop in kit and replaced oil with heavy fork oil. But now with every big bump its bottoms out. So I decided maybe the preload needs to be adjusted. I was able to loosen both jam nuts but when I go to turn the shocks with the spanner wrench, the whole can turns. So do you think I need to replace my shocks? and if I do should I go with Original Showa brand shocks, or drop some coin and get the progressive 422's? I called Harley just to see what they charge to change them out, they said 3 hours! I think I'll do them myself. Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated.

 

Whole can is supposed to turn, the springs are contained in the can, that's why turning them out stiffens, just the opposite of a regular upright shock system, MHO a 2 inch drop is probably why you are bottoming out or your fork oil level is off. I would still guess the 2 inch drop. Good luck ride safe.

 

you've taken a bike that already has a lowered suspension from the factory, and added an ADDITIONAL 2 inches of drop? Im surprised your able to get out of your driveway without scraping hard parts. Ive adjusted the factory rear suspension on my Deluxe to full hard. The ride is pretty rigid but its whats needed to keep my bike from scraping under the weight of 245 lbs plus gear.

 

pretty standard practice these days on the deluxe. i did the same thing before i upgraded to the shotgun shock setup. i never had any problem with scraping unless i went over a tall speed bump. i lowered the front 2" and the rear 1.5"....

 

 

I completely GET the look of a bike way down on the ground, but for the life of me I cant understand why anyone would want to sacrifice so much ride quality to get that look. I understand that the shotgun shock gives you both, but.... the OP made no mention of having installed a Shotgun shock.