One bolt at a time. The rear clip was no problem on a 2004 XL883. I have large hands and could reach it with my fingertips...no need to drop the tire. The book shows the bottom lip of the clip pointed toward the tire...it actually gets pointed outward to grab the fender properly. Make surethe bottom lip aligns with the fender so it doesn't grab at an odd angle. Good idea to Loctite blue the Torx screws.

 

Did mine in about an hour. But that was because of the back plates. I had one (of course it was the first one) that was giving me issues. But after I figured it out, it wasn't too bad on the other side. I didn't have to drop the tire, but at least jacking it up would help I am sure. I just held the platewhile I backed out the screw, and screwed the new one on without moving it. Just don't cross thread the thing or you will have more issues then you will know what to do with. It is damn nice now that I got it installed. Good luck.

 

thanks for everyone imput, doesn't seem to be that bad. Installation will be anywhere from one hour to one day.

 

ok - this is from a dame's perspective....
I installed a detachable sissy bar on my 883 XL. It isn't a quick process. I had a good service department who told me about 90% of the tool needs. They neglected to tell me that I needed a 1/2 closed or boxed wrench to remove the nuts on the back of the rear fender. Once I got that additional tool, I was on my way. I have decided not to install the cushion on the sissy bar because I do not plan to ever take riders. I installed a HD Eagle Mediallion instead....



[IMG]local://upfiles/61718/CCB5FB02FFB44769A397F453A114BEA9.jpg[/IMG]

 

question, so why add sissy bars if you dont plan on taking riders? not trying to be a smart ***, just asking...

 

trama
simple answer....I need them to load my pack to for work briefcase, etc. Besides my Sporty has a solo seat and don't plan on replacing it for a bit. And I choose the detachable one so that I don't have to have it on when I am not working and don't need to lug work sheyit around.

 

makes sense. good luck wit the install..

 

Trama,
I am completed with the install.....one of the things I have discovered, that once it on - it taint goin no where.....it is a secure fit.....

 

Hey, I wouldlike to see pics of the finished install, the sissy bars and racks and docking points on and off if you got em. are they HD compatible?

 

OKay sportster fans it took less than an hour. I didn't have to touch the wheel, an I kept my hand on the plate so it wouldn't move. I did one bolt at a time. Thanks for all the info, I did a little bit of this and a little of that from all the suggestions. Thanks again.