They are not real difficult to get back on when you use the fork cap socket (correct tool) listed above. The socket, a short extension, and a palm ratchet make it a piece of cake.

 

I beg to differ... Unless the standard length sportster forks come with less preload than the lowered nightsters, 48s, etc...

I just installed a set of SpeedMerchant Fork Adjusters on my 48...

They were a PITA to install... I never realized the stock forks have almost 4" of preload on them from factory. It was impossible to push the adjuster, spacer, and spring down by hand. I had to use a little ingenuity... erghh redneck engineering.



By using a long bar clamp secured to the lower leg with a tie-down strap I was able to cinch down the spring using the socket to push against the adjuster. Once I had it down tight the socket spun freely against the plastic end of the bar clamp so I was able to get the first threads started.



Apparently there's a few actual fork compression tools out there, but for over $100 I'll stick to my homemade set-up.

 

I used an old 35mm derbi factory moped wrench I have. My caps were on pretty tight.

I added an inch of pre load to mine and it took some leaning into it to get the caps back on.

 

I took the bars off and used an inch and 3/8 impact socket I bought at NAPA. Works like a charm, especially when putting the fork cap back on. Gives ya plenty to hold on to. And it didn't cost an arm and a leg.

 

My '06 Custom's springs looked like you have pictured too, about 4" of preload. I replaced with Progressive springs which only extend past the tubes 3/4" or so, and even that took some effort.