EVO: Engine Mechanical - Sportsterpedia

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[[:techtalk:menu|{{  :techtalk:gototechnicalmenu.jpg|}}]]
====== EVO: Engine Mechanical ======
====== Engine Mounts ======
\\
====== General Information ======
===== Parts Lists =====

^{{techtalk:miscres:instruction_sheet_header_4.png?nolink&700|}}|||
|  **1982-2003 Rear Motor Mount**  |||
|Part#|Year model|Notes|
|16203-82A|82-90 All|Appearance- offset, billet aluminum. Replacement for 16203-82 for 82-83 models.|
|XXXXX-XX|1991-2003|Rear motor mounts are steel, welded to and are a part of the frame.|
|  **2004-Up Rear Isolators**  |||
|48492-04|2004-up|(L and R) Rear rubber isolators.|
|16291-04|:::|(L) Rear isolator mount (right isolator fits into the frame).|
|  **2004-up Rear Stabilizer**  |||
|16232-04|2004-up|Lower Rear Tie Link (motor to frame)|

^{{techtalk:miscres:instruction_sheet_header_4.png?nolink&700|}}|||
|  **L1984-2003 Front Lower Motor Mounts**  |||
|Sportster year model|Lower front mount (R)|Lower front mount (L)|
|L1984-1990|16210-84 (black)|16212-84 (black)|
|  **2004-Up Front Stabilizer Tie Links**  |||
|47471-04|2004-up|Upper Front Tie Link Mounting Bracket (attached to engine)|
|47470-04|:::|Upper Front Tie Link Bracket (attached to frame)|
|16232-04|:::|Upper Front Tie Link (bracket to bracket)|
|47470-04|:::|Lower Front Tie Link Bracket (attached to frame)|
|16232-04|:::|Lower Front Tie Link (bracket to motor)|
|  **2004-Up Front Isolators**  |||
|48463-04|2004-up|(L and R) Front Rubber Isolator|
|16287-04|:::|(L) Front Isolator Mount (right isolator fits into the frame).|

====== 1986-2003 Motor Mounts ======
===== Rear Mounts =====

1982-1990 mounts offset the engine 13/32" to the left of the position for pre 1982 engines and don't have the hole in them for the kicker shaft to go through. ((billeuze of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?p=5791608&highlight=motor+mount#post5791608)) \\

1984-1990 Rear Mount: \\
This mount is made from billet aluminum and was also sold as a replacement for the 82-83 rear motor mount. \\

{{:techtalk:ih:engmech:16203-82a_pic1_by_boneyard_cycles.jpg?direct&300|}} ((photo courtesy of Boneyard Cycles in Melbourne, FL)) {{:techtalk:ih:engmech:16203-82a_pic2_by_boneyard_cycles.jpg?direct&300|}} ((photo courtesy of Boneyard Cycles in Melbourne, FL)) {{:techtalk:ih:engmech:16203-82a_pic3_by_boneyard_cycles.jpg?direct&300|}} ((photo courtesy of Boneyard Cycles in Melbourne, FL)) \\

{{:techtalk:ih:engmech:16203-82a_pic4_by_boneyard_cycles.jpg?direct&300|}} ((photo courtesy of Boneyard Cycles in Melbourne, FL)) {{:techtalk:ih:engmech:16203-82a_pic5_by_boneyard_cycles.jpg?direct&300|}} ((photo courtesy of Boneyard Cycles in Melbourne, FL)) {{:techtalk:ih:engmech:16203-82a_pic6_by_boneyard_cycles.jpg?direct&300|}} ((photo courtesy of Boneyard Cycles in Melbourne, FL)) \\

===== Lower Front Mounts =====
 
|  L1984-2003 style lower front motor mounts. ((photos courtesy of Ebay seller, Americanbikestrippers [[https://www.ebay.com/str/AmericanBikestrippers?_trksid=p2047675.l2563|Link to Ebay store]] ))  ||
|{{:techtalk:ih:engmech:motor_mounts_-_lower_front_l1984-2003_pic1_by_americanbikestrippers.jpg?direct&300|}}|{{:techtalk:ih:engmech:motor_mounts_-_lower_front_l1984-2003_pic2_by_americanbikestrippers.jpg?direct&300|}}|

===== Top Mounts =====

|1986-2003 upper front motor mount \\ (all 883 except 883R) ((photo courtesy of TomsCyberShop.com www.TomsCyberShop.com))|1986-2003 upper front motor mount \\ (1100, 1200, 883R) ((photo courtesy of Ebay seller, Motorcycle Dreams. [[https://www.ebay.com/str/motorcycledreams|Link to Ebay Store:]] ))|
|{{:techtalk:evo:engmech:motor_mount-_upper_front_1986-2003_all_883_except_883r_by_tomscybershop.jpg?direct&300|}}|{{:techtalk:evo:engmech:motor_mount-_upper_front_1986-2003_1100-1200-883r_by_motorcycle_dreams.jpg?direct&300|}}|

====== 2004-Up Motor Mounts ======
===== Rear Mounts =====
===== Lower Front Mounts =====
===== Top Mounts =====

===== Stabilizer Tie Links =====

The 3 stabilizer links on the engine and the pivot shaft through the rear engine mount are the components that keep the alignment between front and rear. ((XLXR of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=473423)) \\
They are supposed to eliminate side to side movement of the motor. \\
They do however allow vertical movement of the motor and front of the swing arm in response to vibration. ((XLXR of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=473423&page=3)) \\
The rubber mounts also allow for vertical movement to absorb vibration, this is also normal. \\
This is how the motor's vibration is isolated from the frame. You can see this when the motor is idling. \\
The motor is moving, the swing arm pivot bolts are moving. \\
But by the time the vibration gets to the rear wheel, it is not changing the contact patch of the rear tire on the ground. Well, not much anyway. \\
An over tightened drive belt will cause the engine to be jerked backwards as the rear wheel goes over bumps in the road. \\
This is not normal. If you take off the shocks and loosen the belt so it does not bind the rear suspension, the engine and swing arm will not jerk backwards. \\

If the rear wheel contact patch moves forward and back while riding, the effect on handling will be barely noticeable at street legal speeds. Normal swing arm up and down movement in response to bumps in the road moves the rear tire contact patch forward and back as the wheel swings on the arc set by the swing arm. This is normal. The rubber mounts and stabilizer links do allow this front to rear movement. \\

However, if the rear wheel contact patch moves side to side, or if the tire tilts side to side, or the tire is allowed to twist like a steering wheel of a car, handling will immediately be effected for the worse and the rider will lose control very quickly. ((XLXR of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=473423&page=3)) You cannot have the tire moving side to side. The rear tire must stay in line with the front to rear axis and centerline of the bike. Lateral play or side to side play, is when the rear tire turns away from the centerline. In effect, this becomes rear steer, and that does not work on a motorcycle. \\
There is metal to metal contact, with no lateral or side to side play between the rear tire and axle, swing arm, pivot shaft, rear engine/transmission mount, and 3 stabilizer links to the frame. There should be no lateral or side to side play in any of these connections. These metal to metal connections are much stronger and have much less flex than the rubber mounts. These metal to metal connections are keeping everything in line, not the rubber mounts. \\

Check the top isolator link mount bolts (the ones that bolt to top of the front head). ((gronk62 of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=27701&page=4)) \\
(While you're there, check them all). If they come loose, add some blue Loctite to the threads and re-torque them. \\

|  Front Stabilizer Assemblies. ((photos courtesy of Boneyard Cycles in Melbourne, FL))  |||
|{{:techtalk:evo:engmech:2004-up_front_stabilizer_links_pic1_by_boneyard_cycles.jpg?direct&300|}}|{{:techtalk:evo:engmech:2004-up_front_stabilizer_links_pic2_by_boneyard_cycles.jpg?direct&300|}}|{{:techtalk:evo:engmech:2004-up_front_stabilizer_links_pic3_by_boneyard_cycles.jpg?direct&300|}}|

|  Rear Stabilizer Link. ((photos courtesy of Boneyard Cycles in Melbourne, FL))  |
|{{:techtalk:evo:engmech:2004-up_rear_stabilizer_link_by_boneyard_cycles.jpg?direct&300|}}|

|  Upper front engine stabilizer. ((photo by sprink of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=1701136&page=3))  |  Lower front engine stabilizer. ((photo by chris_b_owens of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=1843303))  |  Lower rear engine stabilizer. ((photo by chris_b_owens of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=1843303))  |
|{{:techtalk:evo:susp:upper_front_engine_stabilizer_by_chris_b_owens.jpg?direct&300|}}|{{:techtalk:evo:susp:lower_front_engine_stabilizer_by_chris_b_owens.jpg?direct&300|}}|{{:techtalk:evo:susp:lower_rear_stabilizer_link_by_sprink.jpg?direct&300|}}|





===== Isolator Mounts =====

There shouldn't be that much vibration on rubbermount bikes. You should feel some but not enough to make your feet numb. ((gronk62 of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=27701&page=6)) \\
Keeping the motor mounts in specs makes all the difference in the world. ((Bill2 of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=27701&page=12)) \\
**Tip**: If your mirrors are blurry, check your motor mounts.  You also may notice the engine bouncing around and the handling loose. ((splineman of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=1701136&page=3)) \\ 

The rubber mounts do in fact allow the engine and swing arm to move all around. ((XLXR of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=1121503)) \\
The job of the rubber mounts (or isolators) is to simply carry the weight of the engine, not to align it. \\

However, there are 3 stabilizer links from the frame to the engine that eliminate side to side movement of the engine. \\
The most obvious stabilizer link is in front of the front cylinder head. \\
The end result is the engine can move vertically, but not horizontally. \\
This system was designed by Eric Buell to reduce engine vibration to make the V Twins less prone to vibration bothering the rider. \\
Next time you start the engine, watch the swing arm pivot bolts, they move up and down with the engine vibration. \\
Now look at the tire contact patch on the ground, it barely moves at all. \\
An over tightened drive belt can cause the engine to be jerked backwards by the swing arm when going over bumps in the road. \\
If you take the shocks off, you can feel an over tightened belt bind up the suspension travel when either the rear axle is in line with a line drawn through the swing arm pivot bolts and center of the front pulley in the case of longer shocks, or at max shock extension in the case of shorter shocks. \\
If the stabilizer links and rubber mount bolts are tight, it is possible the problem is a loose fit between the swing arm pivot shaft (which goes through the rear mounting lug on the engine), and the rear mounting lug on the engine. \\
It is possible the torque of the belt can cause the rear wheel to turn out of alignment, but again, the real problem may be the fit between the swing arm pivot shaft and the rear engine mount lug. \\
Better tires and fork brace are also part of the problem. \\
It could also be loose steering head bearings, bad wheel bearings, loose wheel spokes and a lot of other stuff. \\
All this, and more, is covered in the [[techtalk:ref:susp07|7 pages of Suspension]] in the REF section of the Sportsterpedia and the famous [[http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=33294|'Wobble" thread]] from the XLForum. \\

|  Swingarm tightened without rubbers. ((photo by Cosmo Kramer of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=473423))  |  Left and right bushings installed shows space between them and the brackets. ((photo by Cosmo Kramer of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=473423))  ||
|{{:techtalk:evo:susp:pivot_bolt_torqued_without_isolators_by_cosmo_kramer.jpg?direct&300|}}|{{:techtalk:evo:susp:07_rear_motor_mount_19_by_cosmo_kramer.jpg?direct&300|}}|{{:techtalk:evo:susp:07_rear_motor_mount_20_by_cosmo_kramer.jpg?direct&300|}}|
====== Isolator Inspection and Replacement ======

Having to replace bushings and bearings related to motorcycle suspension has been a normal maintenance routine since the beginning of time. \\
There seems to be a wide variety of mileages where the swing arm bearings and rubber mounts need replacing. \\
Keep in mind the rubber mount design also has 3 stabilizer links that connect the engine to frame and allow vertical movement from engine vibration. \\
They also maintain side to side alignment of the engine and frame. Make sure they are tight. \\
In addition, there is a pivot shaft that supports the swing arm bearings / bolts on the outside, and goes through the rear mounting lug on the tranny case. \\
If the pivot shaft is loose in the rear mount lug, it will need to be replaced also. \\
Lube and properly tightening steering head bearings are also important part of the process. ((XLXR http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=1526368&highlight=motor+mounts&page=3))

You can raise the bike on a jack and see engine swing better when pushed than while sitting on the tires. \\

One option instead of replacing the mounts is loosen all the mounts up slightly, run the motor for a moment then go back around and re-torque them. ((sportsterpaul of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=1313091&page=8)) \\

===== Replacement Rubber Options =====

You can use a couple small automotive scissor jacks, one towards the front and one towards the rear, to support the weight of the motor and give some flexibility in moving it around to line things up. ((sportsterpaul http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=1526368&highlight=motor+mounts&page=10)) \\

The manual says they need to be inspected every 10k, but if you're running the OEM rubbers, you can pretty much plan on replacing them at about 30k, ish.
Some have replaced them after 10k. Others reported 50k to over 100k and no problems.


  * OEM mounts:\\ If you don't want more vibration, use the H-D mounts, but plan on replacing much more often. ((Nytstr http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=1526368&highlight=motor+mounts&page=8))\\ They seem to be soft and to not last. There may be a lot of sportsters with softened or sagging mounts that need replacement. ((04xl1200c http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=1526368&highlight=motor+mounts&page=7))
      * Front Motor Mount Isolator (2 each required): H-D 48463-04A
      * Rear Motor Mount Isolator (2 each required): H-D 48492-04A
  
  * Drag Specialties mounts:\\ The DS mounts seem to be slightly stiffer than the HD mounts.\\ Some extra vibes have been reported using the poly mounts under 2K. ((Rico 05R http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=1526368&highlight=motor+mounts&page=12))\\ Handling is also reportedly improved over the OEM mounts.
      * Front Motor Mount Isolator (2 each required): Dennis Kirk 140553 (Drag Specialties 0933-0054)
      * Front Motor Mount Isolator Kit - includes 2 isolators & new hardware: Dennis Kirk  1400195 (Drag Specialties 0933-0117)
      * Rear Motor Mount Isolator (2 each required): Dennis Kirk 140554 (Drag Specialties 0933-0055)
      * Rear Motor Mount Isolator Kit - includes 2 isolators & new hardware: Dennis Kirk  1400196 (Drag Specialties 0933-0118)((Thanks to npaisnel of the XLForum for p/n above))

  * Vance & Hines mounts: \\ Sold and made by Vance & Hines. \\ They will require you to sign a release where you agree they are for racing only, and V&H isn't liable if bad things happen. \\ From XLForum member, Nytstr: ((http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=27701&page=30)) \\ The bike corners like it's on rails, and the wallowing, suspension taking a 'set' is totally gone. It's like a new bike entirely. \\ There is increased vibration, as one would expect. But so far it is not real bad, just a buzz in the seat mainly, and certainly livable for me. \\ 

**Note**: Some advise against hard poly mounts for fear of cracked cases. \\
Polyurethane mounts are good but they do transfer vibration a lot more than typical rubber. If you replace one piece of rubber with polyurethane you need to do all of them. ((flourman of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=473423&page=2)) \\
Polyurethane is stiffer, it will transfer some movement and vibration to the non-polyurethane mounts causing them to wear faster and have funky movement. \\
They will not reduce lateral play of the swingarm and will not improve handling because the rubber mounts do not control lateral play of the swing arm. ((XLXR of the XLFOTUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=473423&page=3)) \\

|  OEM vs Drag Specialties. ((photo by Nytstr of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=1313091))  |  Vance & Hines version. ((photo by Nytstr of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=1313091))  ||
|{{:techtalk:evo:susp:rear_engine_mount_isolators_by_nytstr.jpg?direct&300|}}|{{:techtalk:evo:susp:vance_and_hines_engine_mount_isolators_1_by_nytstr.jpg?direct&300|}}|{{:techtalk:evo:susp:vance_and_hines_engine_mount_isolators_2_by_nytstr.jpg?direct&300|}}|
\\
====== Front Rubbers ======
\\
===== Inspection =====

**Note**: \\
The front motor mounts are notorious for loosening up. ((Toejam503 of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?p=5713261&highlight=loose+motor+mount#post5713261)) Also check the condition of all the motor mount rubber isolators, they can deteriorate from age. \\
If you over tighten the front mount, you're compressing the mount making it stiffer. ((A_Ride_4_ever of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=27701&page=28)) This leads to less give and a much higher chance of cracking the front mount. \\

Check the large thru bolt (1" hex head) in the front rubber motor mount. ((ron1200c of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=27701)) It's in the front of your bike below the voltage regulator under the oil filter. ((xena of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=27701&page=4)) \\
There's your rubber mount with the big bolt going through it. If there is no thread showing where the nut is on the bolt, check tightness. \\
Threads are normally past the end of the nut ranging from 1-2 threads to 1-1/2" or so. ((garbiker of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=27701&page=5)) ((dave of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=27701&page=8)) So if it's flush or so you may need to retighten it or at least check it. \\
As long as it's up to torque (and Loctite was applied), you're good. ((dave of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=27701&page=8)) You can remove the right foot peg and rear brake pedal to gain access to the nut. \\
You may only need to take the bolts out of the front peg mount and rotate it out of the way to get a torque wrench on that nut. ((clayvis of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=27701&page=4)) \\
You can used an open end wrench on the bolt head also. \\

Also, when looking at the front lower motor mounts from under the bike, the rubber mounts seem to sag downward just a bit. ((GlockDoc of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=27701&page=28)) \\
This should be somewhat normal as the engine puts downward pressure on the mount when setting. \\
Both front and rear mounts can sag like this. ((JohnK of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=27701&page=29)) \\

|  Front lower motor mount bolt. ((photo by salukidawg of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=27701&page=21))  |  1 year old (2011) 1200C front mount sag. ((photo by GlockDoc of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=27701&page=28))  |
|{{:techtalk:ref:genmsr:04_motor_mount_bolt_by_salukidawg.jpg?direct&200|}}|{{:techtalk:ref:genmsr:2011_1200c_front_motor_mount_by_glockdoc.jpg?direct&300|}}|

===== Replacement =====

  * The front right is a pain to pull out, you need to pry the motor an inch to the left... right up to the frame, remove the front pipe and a couple case bolts underneath. Even with the engine right up tight to the frame it is a pain to pry the old mount out. Once out, the new one slipps right in. ((JohnK http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=1526368&highlight=motor+mounts&page=6))
  * Use a  6" C-clamp to pull the front of the motor right up tight against the frame.  You cut the puck off the end of the threaded rod part of the clamp, and now it has a round ball on the end of that clamp. You use that round end to keep the C-clamp from sliding off the frame as you tighten it and pull the front of the engine over towards the left side of the bike (the ball on the clamp is inserted into the hole for one of the support plate's bolts).  So when you get it pulled all the way over to where it contacts the frame as you mentioned, you just keep turning the clamp and somehow it pulls the rear of the engine over just enough to where the mount will fall out on it's own if it's sitting at the right angle. ((wedge http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=1526368&highlight=motor+mounts&page=21)) Don't lift the front too high else it will hit the frame before it is over far enough. ((JohnK http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=1526368&highlight=motor+mounts&page=10))
  * Front mount- There is a "shaft" on the RIGHT mount if it (there is actually 2 "shafts") but removing the SHAFT from the Right mount will make things easier. If you have forward controls, remove them and the above is correct remove the "dog bone" mounts it will help you "move" the motor to 1 side. If your mount is really bad out of shape it will be HARD to remove the "LEFT" mount and the right will be almost impossible... REMOVE THE SHAFT with a LONG punch then remove the rubber bushing... now you should have enough room to install the front RIGHT mount. Align it and install the left mount... reinstall the dog bones. ((04xl1200c http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=1526368&highlight=motor+mounts&page=6))

|  C-clamp for removing front right rubber. ((photo by sprink of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=1701136&page=5))  |
|{{:techtalk:evo:susp:removing_front_right_isolator_by_sprink.jpg?direct&300|}}|

|  Front engine mounts on a 2005 1200C. ((photos by Uncledaddy  of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=43715&page=3))  ||  A long nut and bolt holds the front assembly. ((photo by Cosmo Kramer of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=473423&page=4))  |
|{{techtalk:evo:susp:2005_front_motor_mounts_1_by_uncledaddy.jpg?direct&300|}}|{{techtalk:evo:susp:2005_front_motor_mounts_2_by_uncledaddy.jpg?direct&300|}}|{{:techtalk:evo:susp:07_rear_motor_mount_13_by_cosmo_kramer.jpg?direct&300|}}|

The front isolators have a little different design and basically opposite from the rear ones. \\
The right side slides into the frame while the left side is sandwiched by a removable bracket with two mounting bolts. \\
The metal tubes slide through as reinforcements for the rubber. \\
The isolators and the bumps on them slide into and are located within the front of the motor itself, not the frame. \\
There is no pivot shaft on the front mount but rather a long bolt and nut that runs through the whole assembly. \\
There are metal tubes built into the isolators and the tubes are captured by the frame. \\
Notice in the pic below that the front rubbers have one "tab" to locate it to the frame. \\

|  Front motor mount isolators. ((photo by Cosmo Kramer of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=473423&page=2))  |  Left side fitting. ((photo by Cosmo Kramer of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=473423&page=2))  |  Right side fitting. ((photo by Cosmo Kramer of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=473423&page=2))  |
|{{:techtalk:evo:susp:07_rear_motor_mount_10_by_cosmo_kramer.jpg?direct&300|}}|{{:techtalk:evo:susp:07_rear_motor_mount_11_by_cosmo_kramer.jpg?direct&300|}}|{{:techtalk:evo:susp:07_rear_motor_mount_12_by_cosmo_kramer.jpg?direct&300|}}|
\\
====== Rear Rubbers ======
\\
===== Inspection =====
The rubber mounts do not prevent lateral play of the swing arm and motor. ((XLXR of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=473423&page=3)) \\
The pivot shaft connects the swing arm to the rear motor/transmission mount. There should not be any lateral play there, between the swing arm and rear motor mount. \\
The 3 stabilizer links connect the engine to the frame. Again there should not be any lateral play there. \\

If any of these metal to metal connections are loose, only then will the rubber mounts have to stabilize the lateral play. \\
But they are not supposed to be doing that. So the actual problem is play in either the pivot shaft or stabilizer links. \\

You can't tell much about the rear mounts looking from the outside but when you remove the swingarm, you can see the pivot pin is not centered. \\
You can swap the rear rubbers left to right and the pin will be centered again. That way, the sag is 'flipped over' and the engine weight is working against it. \\
However, this won't work with front mounts because they are LH and RH parts. \\

**Symptoms of swingarm problems**: \\

    * Excessive play in the rear wheel, difficulty keeping in a straight line in slow moving traffic. ((Loony http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=1526368&highlight=motor+mounts&page=3))
    * Spherical Bearings having play in them ((Loony http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=1526368&highlight=motor+mounts&page=3))
    * Rear rubber mounts well out of shape. ((Loony http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=1526368&highlight=motor+mounts&page=3))
    * Torx bolt head shearing off. ((Loony http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=1526368&highlight=motor+mounts&page=3))
  * All of the rubber mounts are open to this problem because of the fact that the swing arm is mounted to the mount. \\ And it's rubber-mounted with a spherical bearing. It's got some "flex" stock most don't notice it until it's really bad! ((04xl1200c http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=1526368&highlight=motor+mounts&page=3))
  * Wheel wobble has been known as one contributor from swingarm problems.

==== Loose / Broken Lock Plate Screws ====

The design issue may be that the pivot shaft is too small for the hole it goes through in the engine. It should be a tighter fit like an axle through a bearing. \\
The purpose of the lock plate is to keep the pivot shaft from spinning so you can tighten the swingarm bolts. It may do a fine job at that. \\
But, because the pivot shaft is too small, when you install the lock plate, the lock plate centers the pivot shaft in its hole. \\
So the engine transmits its forces not directly into the pivot shaft, but rather into the lock plate bolts, then the lock plate and finally into the pivot shaft. \\
Those little lock plate bolts can't handle that kind of stress so one or two of them may break. \\
A better fix may be a larger pivot shaft, or a shim or bushing of some sort to take up the space between the pivot shaft and its bore. ((Rog48 http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=1526368&highlight=motor+mounts&page=12))

A tighter pivot shift fit would help but the plate also holds against lateral shift of the shaft to the left under hard cornering loads. \\
The combination of that force plus wiggling of the shaft in the motor opening definitely contributes to the problem. ((LuxBlue http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=1526368&highlight=motor+mounts&page=12))

The three screws that secure the swingarm lock plate had all worked loose on the one below and two of the heads had sheared off. \\
They backed out maybe some fraction of a turn until they hit the isolator. \\
The movement of the pivot in relation to the engine caused them to shear right below the heads of two of the three. \\

They are not easily seen for inspection if they become loose without a teardown as they are behind the rubber isolator when assembled. \\
To see them you would have to drop the swingarm. \\
The isolators are not holding the screws in. They are just against them (shouldn't be much pressure if any against the screws). \\
Most likely, only with severe deflection of that pivot pin would pressure be placed on the plate and shear the bolts. \\
You can drill the center of the screw with a small drill bit and try and Easy-Out to remove it. \\

|  Loose / broken lock plate screws. ((photo by Nytstr of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=1313091))  |  The screws are hidden from the outside. ((photos by Cosmo Kramer of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=1313091&page=2))  ||
|{{:techtalk:evo:susp:rear_engine_mount_by_nytstr.jpg?direct&300|}}| {{:techtalk:evo:susp:07_rear_motor_mount_2_by_cosmo_kramer.jpg?direct&300|}}|{{:techtalk:evo:susp:07_rear_motor_mount_3_by_cosmo_kramer.jpg?direct&300|}}|

|  Screw removal with Easy-Out. ((photos by LuxBlue of the XLFORUM))  |||
|{{:techtalk:evo:susp:broken_screw_removal_1_by_luxblue.jpg?direct&300|}}|{{:techtalk:evo:susp:broken_screw_removal_2_by_luxblue.jpg?direct&300|}}|{{:techtalk:evo:susp:broken_screw_removal_3_by_luxblue.jpg?direct&300|}}|



==== Worn / Rusty Pivot Shaft ====

If you pull the rear mount apart, you may want to inspect the pivot shaft for wear and rust. You can pull the assembly apart at the same time you change the rear tire. \\

{{ :techtalk:evo:susp:rear_pivot_bolt_wear_by_cosmo_kramer.jpg?direct&300|}} {{ :techtalk:evo:susp:rear_pivot_bolt_screw_wear_by_cosmo_kramer.jpg?direct&300|}}
The pivot shaft has metal-to-metal contact on the shoulder where it pushes against the motor mount and all along the hole going thru the motor mount itself. The groove in the pivot shaft to the right is from contact with the backing plate on the throttle side isolator. ((photo by Cosmo Kramer of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=473423)) The groove was most likely worn in by movement in the vertical axis (as the groove was on the bottom side of the shaft), and has nothing to do with lateral play of the swing arm. ((XLXF of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=473423&page=3)) Since the hole in the backing plate is larger than the pivot shaft, the backing plate is not supposed to touch the pivot shaft. However, this may be one of the things that happens over time as the rubber gets weak and moves around a bit more. It is an extremely tight fit going through the motor mount itself (machined shaft and mating hole). On the shaft below, there was no wear where the pivot shaft goes through the rear motor mount. The only wear was where the isolators contact the shaft with the heaviest wear on the throttle side. The witness mark was nearly all the way around the pivot shaft. On the clutch side, there is a very faint mark from where the rubbermount backing plate would be hitting the bottom of the pivot shaft (closest to the ground where the weight would be resting on). Dirt bike suspension bolts can be much worse. Enough wear will cause excessive play in the swing arm, and then the rear wheel will not track straight because drive belt tension will twist the swingarm so the tire points to the left. \\
\\ \\ \\
{{:techtalk:evo:susp:rusty_rear_pivot_bolt_by_cosmo_kramer.jpg?direct&300 |}} {{:techtalk:evo:susp:07_rear_motor_mount_22_by_cosmo_kramer.jpg?direct&300 |}} Water can get between the isolators and the pivot shaft and cause it to rust. ((photos by Cosmo Kramer of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=473423)) The rust will only get worse as time goes by (especially if you live near the ocean). ((XLXR of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=473423)) Rust can cause long term problems because it will eventually cause too much swingarm play. Guys who live in places like Florida will have rust problems sooner than the rest of us. You can sand blast all the rust off, use sand paper or a wire brush to remove the rust. Then coat the shaft with a good marine water proof grease. Paint will only rust through again. \\ \\ \\ \\ \\ \\

===== Replacement =====

  * Remove the rear mounts and then change the fronts. Getting the right front out is easier when the tube is removed from the old mount. You can get loads of hassle getting the drag specs fronts in and having the extra movement by not having the rears in place will make it easier. Disconnect all the stabilizer links and put a jack under the front of the engine while someone sits on the bike to hold it upright and used pry bars to get the thing to move enough. ((Loony http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=1526368&highlight=motor+mounts&page=6))
  * It's best if you RUN the motor with the mount bolts loose for a few revvs then torque them to factory spec to let the engine settle in the mount. ((04xl1200c http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=1526368&highlight=motor+mounts&page=19)) 
  * Remove the rear brake line it will help... and on the rear mounts they will come out ALOT easier than the front... even with removing the swing arm... ect. i found it to be ALOT easier than the front mounts. Take your time with the rear. The REAR shaft that goes through the engine that holds the RIGHT mount in place... and replace those TORX with some grade 8 hardware and tighten them down... TIGHT!!!!! they tend to brake if they come loose...((04xl1200c http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=1526368&highlight=motor+mounts&page=6))
  * The LEFT mount will not come out easy if it is OUT OF ROUND. Turn it like 180deg and out at a angle.. it helps to REMOVE THE LOWER dogbone and rock the rear of the engine around... the NEW "round" mount will go in much easier... the RIGHT mount should not be a problem it will slide out once the AXLE shaft (the one with the 3 screws that break) is knocked out.... it doesnt matter the "shape" of the old mount it will come out pretty easy... but the primary and the frame will create some issues getting the RIGHT mount out IF it is droopy. ((04xl1200c http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=1526368&highlight=motor+mounts&page=6))
  * Replace the swing arm bearing when you have it apart... and above all else... follow the TSB for reinstalling the rear brake don't cross thread the pivot bolt. ((04xl1200c http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=1526368&highlight=motor+mounts&page=6))
  * When you have the swingarm out, use a few sockets and some all thread (a bolt could work as well) in a vise to press the bearings out. ((Screw Loose Dan http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?postid=5569081#post5569081))  There might be some surface rust in there, just soak it with some rust solvent for a couple of hours before you press it. ((madlim http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?postid=5569081#post5569081))

|  Rear engine mounts on a 2005 1200C. ((photos by Uncledaddy  of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=43715&page=3))  ||  Exploded rear assembly on 07 model. ((photo by Cosmo Kramer of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=473423))  |
|{{techtalk:evo:susp:2005_rear_motor_mounts_1_by_uncledaddy.jpg?direct&300|}}|{{techtalk:evo:susp:2005_rear_motor_mounts_2_by_uncledaddy.jpg?direct&300|}}|{{:techtalk:evo:susp:07_rear_motor_mount_21_by_cosmo_kramer.jpg?direct&300|}}|

The rear mounts are a little different in design than the fronts. The rears have a metal ring built into them and the pivot shaft runs through this ring and isolator. \\
The rubber has bumps on them that locate them in the frame and keep them from spinning or moving. \\
You can see one of them below (on the swingarm side). \\

On the right side frame is the "hole" to locate the isolator. \\
This is the same on the front rubber and is the reason why you install / remove the motor from the clutch side. \\
The openings in the frame are designed to locate the bumps on the rubber mounts. \\
Here is a picture showing the two bumps and the rubbermount in the frame. \\

On the left side, the rear isolator is captured by a metal backing plate that pushes against the sides of the transmission rear mount lug. \\
This black metal retaining ring is installed after installing the motor and it compresses the rubbers together and against the side of the frame on the right. \\
The left passenger foot peg is bolted to it. \\ 

|  Metal ring seen on left isolator. ((photo by Cosmo Kramer of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=473423&page=2))  |  Left rear isolator backing plate. ((photo by Cosmo Kramer of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=473423))  |
|{{:techtalk:evo:susp:07_rear_motor_mount_6_by_cosmo_kramer.jpg?direct&300|}}|{{:techtalk:evo:susp:07_rear_motor_mount_5_by_cosmo_kramer.jpg?direct&300|}}|

|  Left rear isolator bump through removable bracket. ((photo by Cosmo Kramer of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=473423&page=2))  |  Right rear isolator bump through frame. ((photo by Cosmo Kramer of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=473423&page=2))  |  Built in anti-rotation tabs. ((photo by Cosmo Kramer of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=473423&page=2))  |
|{{:techtalk:evo:susp:07_rear_motor_mount_7_by_cosmo_kramer.jpg?direct&300|}}|{{:techtalk:evo:susp:07_rear_motor_mount_8_by_cosmo_kramer.jpg?direct&300|}}|{{:techtalk:evo:susp:07_rear_motor_mount_9_by_cosmo_kramer.jpg?direct&300|}}|

|  Rear isolator locating tabs. ((photos by 04xl1200c of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=1701136&page=11))  ||
|{{:techtalk:evo:susp:rear_isolator_tabs_in_place_1_by_04xl1200c.jpg?direct&300|}}|{{:techtalk:evo:susp:rear_isolator_tabs_in_place_2_by_04xl1200c.jpg?direct&300|}}|
==== Pivot Shaft Pics ====
The shoulder on the shaft sits flush with the outside edge of the engine. \\

The pivot shaft is not a press fit into the bore but there is some tolerances involved. \\
One the backing plate is removed, the shaft may not easily be pulled out. \\
You should be able to remove it by simply hitting the opposite end with your hand or rubber mallet (after wiping any rust /debris off the shaft). \\
The shaft should turn freely once the retainer plate is removed but there is no "play" as the tolerance is close to an interference fit condition. \\
The shaft is not tapered but there is a shoulder on the shaft and there is a recessed shoulder on the engine itself. \\
Below is a picture of the clutch side of the rear engine mount and you can see the machined shoulder on the inside. \\
There is no bushing in the hole, it is just machined through. 

{{:techtalk:evo:susp:07_rear_motor_mount_23_by_cosmo_kramer.jpg?direct&300|}} ((photo by Cosmo Kramer of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=473423)) {{:techtalk:evo:susp:07_rear_motor_mount_15_by_cosmo_kramer.jpg?direct&300|}} ((photo by Cosmo Kramer of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=473423)) {{:techtalk:evo:susp:07_rear_motor_mount_14_by_cosmo_kramer.jpg?direct&300|}} ((photo by Cosmo Kramer of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=473423)) \\

{{:techtalk:evo:susp:07_rear_motor_mount_25_by_cosmo_kramer.jpg?direct&300|}} ((photo by Cosmo Kramer of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=473423)) {{:techtalk:evo:susp:07_rear_motor_mount_24_by_cosmo_kramer.jpg?direct&300|}} ((photo by Cosmo Kramer of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=473423)) \\

On the shoulder of the shaft there are two "flat" spots 180° from each other. The retainer plate has two small tabs that fit into the flat spots. \\
The shaft can still rotate a small amount until the shoulder on the shaft comes into contact with the tab. \\
The backing plate has two tabs that engage those flat spots on the pivot shaft and that connection locks the shaft from rotating once installed. \\

{{:techtalk:evo:susp:07_rear_motor_mount_16_by_cosmo_kramer.jpg?direct&300|}} ((photo by Cosmo Kramer of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=473423)) {{:techtalk:evo:susp:07_rear_motor_mount_17_by_cosmo_kramer.jpg?direct&300|}} ((photo by Cosmo Kramer of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=473423)) {{:techtalk:evo:susp:07_rear_motor_mount_18_by_cosmo_kramer.jpg?direct&200|}} ((photo by Cosmo Kramer of the XLFORUM http://xlforum.net/forums/showthread.php?t=473423)) \\



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