I am changing rear shocks to Progressive 440s and I do not know how tight the bolts should be. Do I need a torque wrench? Do I just put the shocks in place and tighten the bolts as much as I can? Do I need to apply something before tightening it?

I do not want to take a chance and couldn't google any info about this.

 

You could fit and tighten them without using a torque wrench. Use some blue Loctite thread locking fluid on the threads.

From your other posts it seems you are doing work on your bike. You really should get the factory service manual, which will give you guidance when working on your bike, plus torque figures! Then you could also then get a torque wrench, and be much better equipped for future jobs.

 

Harbor freight has the torque wrench now for 9.99 with coupon. I just got it to change my shocks on my ultra. Works fine

 

Avneesh lives in India, so probably has different outlets he can get one from!

 

You need to buy a service manual for your bike it has ALL the torque specs for every nut and bolt on the bike.

 

In the 20,000 miles I've ridden my bike I have yet to torque or loctite anything. Just tighten them up GOOD.

 

This may come back and haunt you soon, especially in places where using steel bolts in aluminum inserts ..

 

+1 - Sooner or later it will make for a very expensive mistake. I've never met a good mechanic that didn't use a torque wrench.

 

Locktite and anti-sieze are your friends...use one or the other on everything. Torque wrench recommended, depending on what you're doing, but especially with critical fasteners & engine components.