08 Ultra. Got the stock hard bags. Having issue with the quick release fasteners. These God Damn things are always a pain the the *** to get back on. Seems like I've got to bend the tips back in place everytime I put them on.

Is there something better out there?

Otherwise I guess I'll buy some extras. Add to the profit parts makes in selling cheap *** **** made in China....

 

2009 FLHRC Vivid Black


5/16 *1 1/2" carriage bolts and fender washers with two nuts on each bolt...it takes a extra minute to take them off but they won't fall off on the road.

 

Went to ace hardware, bought 3/8" u nuts- 1 1/4", 3/8" bolts, lock washers and flat washers. Now dont have to worry about the bags. Easy off with a ratchet and socket. 3/8" is perfect size to go thru the rubber gromets in the bag.

 

My front mounts were off center and made getting those push pins in tough. Pretty easy fix with a wrench.
You may need to make a slight adjustment to your front mounts for them to go on easily.
I always carry an extra push pin in the saddle bag just in case one snaps.
There was a thread recently where a member was concerned about someone walking off with his hard bags.
He replaced the push pins with bolts and a nut clip.

 

The clips are not adjusted properly. I just redid all mine while I was replacing a couple of related parts. You wouldn't believe how easy they work when adjusted properly. Having them misadjusted puts a strain on everything and can lead to broken parts!

 

i went with the u-bolts and and allen head bolt to replace the spring clips as well. I had issues mostly due to the use of the saddlebag organizer along with the fender washers, was just too tight and i kept breaking the stock clips. Takes me a few extra seconds to take them off now, but i never have to worry about breaking a pin again.

 

From reading your post and the language you're using, I take it you don't care for the quick release fasteners?

 

Settle down and take a look at the things to see if they need re-aligning, my man. It's an easy fix that only takes a little patience and a couple minutes of time. Also it helps to use a little care when you remove the bags so as not to move anything out of alignment.

 

I concur, the alignment is off, I have helped buddies get them right in the past. Good luck.

 

Mine go on and off just fine on my 07 ultra. You should try taking the leather Harley bags off an 04 Sportster. Swearing is a must when doing them