The rear shocks on my 03 are in good shape and don't leak but the dust covers are trashed (dry rotted) i don't want to replace the shocks just for the dust covers being bad. Is it alright to run with out the dust covers or something to replace them. Harley want me to buy a new set of shocks.

 

Dust shields shielld dust and protect the shock innards. But your shocks will last awhile without them

Or you can do like I did and get a set of newer 09 and up shocks on EBay for around $65. Lots of guys selling them like new because they bought the lower 11" shocks.

They're better than the 08 and earlier OEM's btw.

 

ya i bought a set of 09 for $45 + shipping on ebay

 

Hi from the UK and welcome to HDF. Your shocks are trying to tell you something! At almost ten years old it is time to pension them off. Suggestions above will get you a fresh set for peanuts.