Any pointers on lifting a/my bagger (by yourself) with a Craftsmen ATV jack? I've been using it for years with tractors, ATVs and dirt bikes but never before such a heavy and treasured purchase. I usually put the lift on left side (partially raised) retract side stand and stand bike straight up. Slide lift under then pump it to height. My fear is the weight difference between the Harley and feather weight dirt bikes, that's why I'm looking for any tricks or pointers - thanks

 

grab a friend for the first lift

i just obtained a craftsman moto jack capable of 1500 lbs but havent tried it yet

 

I've had my Street Glide up on the Craftsmen's jack. It's about getting the jack centered and supporting the weight equally.

 

pretty sure mine is rated 1000 lbs not 1500

 

Nothing more to it than that.

 

I've done this a hundred times and still it takes me 2 or 3 attempts each time to get it perfectly balanced. But once you have it balanced and locked in you're good to go.

 

- and once it's up use what ever locks are there in case the ram bleeds down.

- use the straps and outriggers ( if equipped )

- be aware that if removing a part ( such as a wheel) you may change the balance---alot!

- go as high as you need, not as high as it'll go- and before you take it up, give it a rock to check that the frame isn't sliding on the lift.

I use the cheapo Sams club- it's totally fine for the job. ( Owners of Chinese lifts such as the Larin, there was a recall some years ago for the bolts shearing- replace the bolts with grade 8 bolts-


mike

 

I have the Red Sears jack.

LEFT SIDE?

I slide it in under the right side. While the bike is on the side stand.
I make sure it's under both frames and start jacking.

I do have one hand on the handlebar while pumping the foot pump (to make me feel better)

I never raise the side stand either. When the jack goes down, it will lean to the left side and put itself on the side stand.

Use the locks when it's in the air, lower the jack until it's firmly on the locks. That will take pressure off the bottle jack.

 

thanks, I'll try it from the right side

 

It's pretty straight foward.
One thing nobody mentioned....given that you are use to lifting lighter vehicles, when you go to let her down, be careful, too fast and who knows which side she might fall.