The Ultimate Guide: How to Jack Up a Harley Davidson Trike

Whether you’re a seasoned Harley Davidson rider or a curious newcomer, learning how to jack up a Harley Davidson trike is a valuable skill. It’s essential for maintenance, repairs, and even just cleaning the underside of your trike. While it might seem daunting at first, with the right tools and techniques, jacking up your trike is a straightforward process. This guide will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to lift your trike safely and efficiently.

Gather Your Tools: Essential Equipment for the Job

Before you start, ensure you have the following tools:

• A jack specifically designed for motorcycles: A standard car jack won’t work for a trike. Look for a motorcycle jack with a wide base for stability and a lifting capacity suitable for your trike’s weight.
• Jack stands: These are crucial for supporting your trike once it’s lifted. Choose jack stands that are rated for the weight of your trike and ensure they’re in good condition.
• Chocks: Place chocks behind the rear wheels to prevent your trike from rolling backward while it’s on the jack.
• Torque wrench: This tool is essential for tightening bolts and nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications after you’ve completed your work.
• Gloves: Protective gloves are always a good idea when working on your trike.
• Safety glasses: These will protect your eyes from debris or accidental drops.

Choosing the Right Jacking Point: Where to Lift Your Trike

The most common jacking point on a Harley Davidson trike is the frame’s center section, located beneath the rider’s seat. This point provides a stable lifting platform and is designed to handle the weight of the trike.

Important Note: Never jack up your trike from the rear axle or any other point not specifically designed for lifting. This can damage the frame and suspension.

The Step-by-Step Guide to Jacking Up Your Harley Davidson Trike

1. Prepare Your Trike: Park your trike on a level surface and engage the parking brake. Place chocks behind the rear wheels to prevent it from rolling backward.
2. Locate the Jacking Point: Identify the center section of the frame beneath the rider’s seat. You’ll find a designated lifting point marked with a small indentation or a raised area.
3. Position the Jack: Place the motorcycle jack directly under the lifting point. Ensure the jack is positioned securely and that it’s centered under the frame.
4. Begin Lifting: Slowly raise the jack until the trike is just off the ground. Take your time and be cautious during this step.
5. Secure with Jack Stands: Once the trike is slightly elevated, position the jack stands under the frame, ensuring they’re securely locked in place.
6. Lower the Jack: Carefully lower the jack, transferring the weight of the trike to the jack stands.
7. Double Check: Make sure the trike is stable and securely supported by the jack stands before proceeding with any work.

Safety First: Tips for a Secure Lifting Experience

• Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions: Refer to your Harley Davidson trike’s owner’s manual for specific jacking instructions and safety guidelines.
• Use caution and lift slowly: Avoid sudden movements or jerking the jack.
• Never work under a trike that is only supported by the jack: Always use jack stands for safety.
• Inspect the jack stands before each use: Ensure they’re in good condition and rated for the weight of your trike.
• Never exceed the jack’s lifting capacity: This could lead to a catastrophic failure.
• Be aware of your surroundings: Make sure the work area is clear of obstacles and that no one is around who could be injured.

Beyond the Basics: Advanced Jacking Techniques

While the basic jacking procedure is straightforward, there are a few advanced techniques that can make your life easier:

• Using a hydraulic jack: A hydraulic jack can make lifting your trike even easier, especially if you’re working on heavier repairs.
• Jacking for specific tasks: Depending on the type of work you’re doing, you may need to jack up the trike at different points. For example, if you’re working on the rear suspension, you may need to jack up the rear end of the trike.
• Using a lift table: If you frequently work on your trike, investing in a motorcycle lift table can save you time and effort.

The Final Descent: Lowering Your Trike Safely

1. Remove the Jack Stands: Once you’ve finished your work, carefully remove the jack stands, ensuring the trike remains stable.
2. Lower the Jack: Slowly lower the jack until the trike is resting on its wheels.
3. Check for Stability: Once the trike is back on the ground, double check that it’s stable and that all the wheels are firmly on the ground.
4. Remove the Chocks: Remove the chocks from behind the rear wheels.
5. Test the Brakes: Before riding, test your brakes to make sure they’re working properly.

Riding Off into the Sunset: Your Trike is Ready to Roll

Now that you’ve successfully jacked up your Harley Davidson trike, you’re ready to tackle any maintenance or repair tasks. Remember to always prioritize safety and follow the steps outlined in this guide. With a little practice, you’ll become a master of lifting your trike and keeping it in tip-top shape.

What People Want to Know

Q: Can I use a car jack to lift my Harley Davidson trike?

A: No, you should never use a car jack to lift a motorcycle or trike. Car jacks are not designed for the weight and stability requirements of motorcycles. They can also damage the frame and suspension.

Q: How often should I inspect my jack stands?

A: It’s a good practice to inspect your jack stands before each use. Look for signs of wear, damage, or corrosion. If you notice any issues, replace the jack stands immediately.

Q: What are some common mistakes people make when jacking up a trike?

A: Some common mistakes include using the wrong jack, not using jack stands, not securing the jack properly, and lifting the trike too high. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and prioritize safety.

Q: What should I do if I notice a problem while jacking up my trike?

A: If you encounter a problem, stop immediately and address the issue. Don’t try to force anything or continue working if you’re not sure what to do. Consult your owner’s manual or a qualified mechanic for assistance.

Q: Is there a specific type of jack I should use for my Harley Davidson trike?

A: Yes, you should use a motorcycle jack that is specifically designed for lifting motorcycles and trikes. Look for a jack with a wide base for stability and a lifting capacity that is suitable for the weight of your trike.