I have just noticed that my saddlebag retainer pins are not all the same length - and the longer ones have a rather loose fit.

Have you guys fixed/replaced your OEM saddlebag retainer pins (those quick-release, “twist pins” used to secure the saddlebags to the frames)?

I know I can install a washer or three under the existing washers of the culprits, but I was wondering what other "quick-release" remedies or options are available.

The Brukus Saddlebag Secure system looks interesting, but I'm not sure if it could be considered a "quick release" setup.

Thanks for any help.

 

I took those "quick disconnect" pins off and replaced with a bolt the same length as the pins and a couple of lock nuts. Not a quick detach, but the bags won't be falling off the bike either. About $5 at Ace Hdwr.

 

Brukus is pretty much QR, plus you have the protection.

 

I had a saddlebag come off a couple yrs. ago after a dealer did the 1k service....
got lucky, the complete bag was replaced by HD within 3 wks...
Went and bought SS 5/16" Button head allen bolts w/fender washers and
nylock nuts...(Ace Hdw) might be overkill..but no worries now 'bout loosing a saddlebag.

 

Over time, the "S" shaped spring steal piece that your twist loc latches onto, will deflect back due to always being under tension. You can use a larger screw driver and bend/flex that "S" spring piece back out, and they "Will" be tight again ! Check your twist pin to make sure that its "cogs" are not rounding off to the point, that the slightest bit of "twist" will release it from the "S-spring". But for security, I have one tamper proof bolt along with one stock retainer on each bag. Craig

 

I replace the clip with a "speed nut" and a wing bolt. ( 5/16th ")

ace hardware about $9.

brutus sells some repackaged hardware if you want to spend more
however, "security" screws are easily removed with a screw driver levered into the center pin ---and the security bits are available at harbor freight


never had a bag drop off, but have found a pin backed out


I ride alot of washboard roads and that's when you find out what hardware is loose !

Mike

 

Go back to the dealer & have the long pins replaced, they're for a CVO bike, they use a thicker rubber grommets to space them out a little farther. As long as the pins are securely locked they will not fail, got hit a few months ago & it completely destroyed the left bag, only thing left was the grommets & pins still in place. That was on a 2000 with fiberglass bags with 109K & probably a hundred R&Rs.

 

+1 on the bolts. No worries now.

 

Thanks, guys. I found another thread here with lots of options, so let's kill this one.

 

Put some washers under the long pins on the RKC 103 saddlebags and this works well.

I also check my saddlebag pins before every long ride I take.