I just bought a set of 412 series shocks for my 97 Sportster. It says in the instructions to check clearance on the lower end of the shock to the belt drive. It says if there isnt enough clearance to remove lower cover. Looking at the shocks it appears I need a tool from Progessive to do this, to compress the springs. Anyone done it with out this tool or should I just order it up and be done with it?

 

Or you can use spacers/washers and longer bolts to shim the shocks some. It's a typical problem with aftermarket shocks. Didn't your new shocks come with spacers?

 

My Hagons came with spacers and fit fine. Check your instructions and what came in the box with your shocks, assuming you bought them new.

 

Are you sure they're referring to the shock (cover)? I believe they mean to remove the lower belt cover...call them to verify, but there shouldn't be any removable cover on the shock...from what I see.

 

Yes they came with a spacer and it has an offset eye for the lower mounting point. I found instructions and yes it says remove lower chrome cover, http://www.progressivesuspension.com...rings/3080.pdf ,
I havent mounted them yet, its -3 below here just making sure I have the correct tools when I do

 

It also refers to an offset lower eye, which may help you install them so nothing rubs. The offset probably avoids the need for including separate spacers, which we referred to previously.

 

Covers are removable, and do require Progressive spring compressor.
I replaced my lower ones (& springs) due to some rub marks.
The OP won't have to remove his for installation.

 

Ok did a mockup on shocks with covers, too close for me. So descision to take off lower covers. No shock tool so got creative, and used two long clamps to pull down top shock cover and remove the retainer. Once I got the hang of it no issues on both shocks. Took lower cover off recompressed spring put the lock back into place done.

 

Mind expanding on the technique a bit? Getting ready to install same shocks and would love a just in case method...

 

You can use worm clamps to compress the shocks enough to get the caps off.