Softail preload and ride height

[ko ko joe]

Before I jack around with the preload on my FXSTC, just wanted to make sure I was clear on how softail shocks operate. If I increase preload, the spring will compress (shorten) but the damper (absorber) will actually lengthen, thus lowering ride height, right??? Reason I'm asking is because I recently installed lowering studs to lower the ass end approx. 1.5''. Shortly afterwards, I noticed that the seat mounting stud on the underside of the rear fender came into contact with the tire. The rear shocks are currently at the lightest preload setting and I don't want to make the problem worse by increasing the preload. But then agian, what the hell do I know? That's why I'm asking.

[Wide]

Preload makes it higher and stiffer correct

[OldBikerGuy]

That's what she said.

[junior]

softail shocks work backwards from most standard applications. lengthening them (the stud or eyebolt kit) shortens the ride height by raising the arc of the rear wheel in relation to the axis shaft. this is because of where the shocks are mounted. tightening the can (spring preload) had absolutely no effect on the length of the shock unit. what will change is the rate of compression. so, for round numbers, let's say 100 pound load in the stock preload allowed the shock to extend 1 inch. wind up the spring and the same 100 pound load may now only allow 3/4 inch. length is unchanged, but travel of the shock in relation to weight does alter it's movement.

hope that helps

j

[ko ko joe]

Thanks j. After thinking about it and even scratching out a crude diagram, I realized what I initially thought was all wrong. Your right, adjusting the sring preload has no effect on the overall lenght of the entire shock assembly at all. You would think someone with a mech. engineering degree would pick up on that in a second, but trying to visualize exactly how a softail shock works in your head can be a little tricky.