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FL ADJUSTABLE RIDER BACKREST MOUNTING HARDWARE KIT
J047292019-07-25
GENERAL
Kit Number
52593-09A
Models
For model fitment information, see the P&A Retail Catalog or the Parts and Accessories section of www.harley-davidson.com (English only).
WARNING
Rider and passenger safety depend upon the correct installation of this kit. Use the appropriate service manual procedures. If the procedure is not within your capabilities or you do not have the correct tools, have a Harley-Davidson dealer perform the installation. Improper installation of this kit could result in death or serious injury. (00333b)
NOTE
This instruction sheet references service manual information. A service manual for your model motorcycle is required for this installation and is available from a Harley-Davidson Dealer.
Kit Contents
See Figure 14 and Table 1.
INSTALLATION - 1997 through 2007 MODELS
1. Remove existing seat and grab strap following the instructions in the service manual. Models equipped with a grab handle must leave the grab handle in place. Remove the nuts only. Save all hardware for installation.
2. Remove left side cover following instructions in the service manual.
3. See Figure 1. 1999 and Later Models: Remove the flange nuts (2) in location indicated if applicable. Leave the nylon retaining washers (1) in place. 1997-1998 Models: Remove bolts.
1Nylon retaining washer (2)
2Flange nut (2)
3Adjustable handle bracket attachment point
4Adjustable handle cable access hole
Figure 1. Remove Flange Nuts/Bracket Location
4. See Figure 2. Install the adjustment handle bracket (1) with the appropriate hardware: 2000-2007 Models: See Figure 14. Use the screw (5) and flange nut (13). 1997-1999 Models: See Figure 14. Use the self-tapping screw (11).
5. Vehicles Equipped with Cruise Control: See Figure 14. Install the cruise control cable through the wire clip (8). Install screw (5 or 11) through wire clip. On 2000-2008 models, install flange nut (13).
6. See Figure 7. Verify the cable end (1) is secure in the bracket (2) before routing the backrest cable.
NOTE
Over-tightening the adjustment handle screws may cause damage to the adjustment handle.
7. See Figure 3. Feed cable on handle through the adjustment handle bracket (1) and install the backrest adjustment handle (2) in the bracket as shown with the provided flat head screws (3) (Item 5 or 11, Figure 17). Tighten screws securely. Feed the cable underneath the frame and up under the seat.
8. Proceed to FINAL INSTALLATION - ALL MODELS.
1Adjustment handle bracket
Figure 2. Installed Adjustment Handle Bracket
1Adjustment handle bracket (generic shown)
2Backrest adjustment handle
3Screw (2)
Figure 3. Installed Backrest Adjustment Handle
1Speed nut location
Figure 4. Install Speed Nut
INSTALLATION - 2008 MODELS
Models without the Mid-Frame Air Deflector Accessory
1. Remove existing seat and grab strap according to service manual instructions. Models equipped with a grab handle must leave the grab handle installed. Remove the mounting nuts only. Save all hardware for installation.
2. Remove the left side cover following the instructions in the service manual.
3. See Figure 1. Remove the flange nuts (2). Leave the nylon retaining washers (1) in place.
4. California models with the evaporator canister tube: Pull plastic hose clip out of the hole in the frame plate at the location where the adjustment handle bracket is going to mount. Discard plastic hose clip.
NOTE
The following step(s) will provide a threaded backrest adjustment handle bracket mounting hole in the 2008 frame. The special self-clinching nut included in the kit is inserted into the upper left hex shaped hole in the frame plate (where the backrest mounts) and secured in place by deforming the nut with a screw. Care must be taken to verify the nut is fully engaged in the hex hole when tightening the screw to clinch the nut into the frame plate.
5. See Figure 14. Obtain self-clinching nut (15) and screw (16) from kit. Install hex head screw into flanged end of the self-clinching nut until head of the screw just makes contact with the top of the nut.
NOTE
If necessary, clean any paint from the hex hole to fully engage the self-clinching nut in the hole.
6. Install the self-clinching nut and screw into the upper hex hole in the frame plate where the backrest bracket mounts. Engage hex shoulder of nut into the hex hole in frame.
7. Turn screw with a 7/16 wrench while holding the self-clinching nut firmly in place. The back of the self-clinching nut behind the frame plate will deform to clinch itself into the frame plate.
8. Tighten screw (approximately 2-1/2 turns).
Torque: 6.8–7.4 N·m (60–65 in-lbs) Frame plate screw
9. Remove screw (16) and discard.
10. Hold shim (18) with hole in shim aligned with slot in bracket (10) and aligned with self-clinching nut in frame plate, and so shim gets sandwiched between the bracket and the frame plate. Install adjustment handle bracket (10) and shim with flange screw (5) through bracket and shim and into the self-clinching nut. Make sure the hook/bent tab of the bracket engages the edge of the large oval hole in the frame. When aligned, tighten flange screw.
Torque: 5.1–6.2 N·m (45–55 in-lbs) Flange screw
11. California models with the evaporator canister tube: See Figure 14. Obtain the adhesive-backed clip (17) from kit. Clean the flat area of the adjustment handle bracket approximately in the location where the stock plastic hose clip was removed using isopropyl alcohol. Attach the clip to the bracket and route the evaporator tube through the clip. Fold clip down to capture the tube securely.
12. See Figure 14. Obtain actuator handle and cable (9) from kit.
13. See Figure 7. Verify the cable end (1) is secure in the bracket (2) before routing the backrest cable.
14. See Figure 8. Route the backrest cable through the large opening in the adjustment handle bracket, then through the large oval slot (2) in the frame cross-member plate (3) and down through the lower drain hole (1) located at the bottom corner of the frame cross-member plate where the cross-member plate meets the rear frame.
15. See Figure 10. Route cable (1) between the battery compartment and the fuse/electrical box. It may be necessary to loosen electrical box to fit the cable between the frame and the electrical box. Continue routing the cable (1) up from the rear of the electrical box to between the frame and the rear fender, and finally up to the top of the rear fender and to the backrest bracket.
1Left deflector (partially removed for clarity)
27/8 inch long button head screw, lockwasher and 1 inch OD flat washer
33/4 inch long button head screw, lockwasher and 5/8 inch OD flat washer
4Evaporator canister hose mounting hole (California models only)
5Frame cross-member plate
6Bottom frame opening (drain hole) for cable routing
7Large oval slot
Figure 5. 2008 Models: Fastener Locations - View of Frame Rearward of Rear Cylinder (Engine Removed for Clarity)
Models with the Mid-Frame Air Deflector Accessory
1. Remove existing seat and grab strap according to service manual instructions. Models equipped with a grab handle must leave the grab handle installed. Remove the mounting nuts only. Save all hardware for installation.
2. Remove left side cover following instructions in the service manual.
3. See Figure 1. Remove the flange nuts (2) in location indicated if applicable. Leave the nylon retaining washers (1) in place.
4. California models with the evaporator canister tube: Pull plastic hose clip out of the hole in the frame plate at the location where the adjustment handle bracket is going to mount. Discard plastic hose clip.
NOTE
If installing the Mid-Frame Air Deflector Accessory Kit also, follow Step 5 then skip to Step 7. If the Mid-Frame Air Deflector Accessory has already been installed, skip to Step 6.
5. Follow the instructions included with the Mid-Frame Air Deflector Kit to install the four self-clinching "special" nuts.
6. See Figure 5. Remove the left air deflector (1) and hardware (2 and 3).
7. See Figure 14. Obtain actuator handle bracket (10) from kit.
NOTE
The air deflector mounting hardware should be used/reused to mount the adjustment handle bracket.
8. See Figure 14. Insert cable (part of Item 9) through opening in adjustment handle bracket (10) as shown. Install adjustment handle (part of Item 9) into bracket (10) using the two screws (5). Tighten screws securely but do not over-tighten.
9. See Figure 7. Verify the cable end (1) is secure in the bracket (2) before routing the backrest cable.
NOTE
Over-tightening the adjustment handle screws may cause damage to the adjustment handle.
10. While holding the left side Mid-Frame Air Deflector and the adjustment handle bracket with adjustment handle and cable in their as-mounted orientation, and so air deflector will end up captured between the adjustment handle bracket and the frame cross-member, align the deflector upper mounting hole (2nd hole from top of deflector) with large slot in adjustment handle bracket. Align bottom mounting hole in air deflector with bottom hole in adjustment handle bracket.
11. See Figure 5. Place air deflector and adjustment handle bracket into position while feeding backrest cable through large oval slot (8) in frame cross-member plate (5) and down through bottom frame opening (6) in the compartment behind the frame cross-member plate.
NOTE
With adjustment handle already installed in bracket, it may be desirable to access the bracket mounting hardware from the right side of the vehicle.
Do not use Loctite on the fasteners used to secure the mid-frame air deflector to the frame. If Loctite contacts the air deflector, damage will occur.
12. Using hardware from Mid-Frame Air Deflector Kit, install 7/8 inch long button head screw with lock washer and 1 inch OD flat washer through slot in adjustment handle bracket and through upper mounting hole (2nd from top) of air deflector. Install screw into upper self-clinching nut (installed as part of air deflector kit or as part of adjustable backrest kit). Tighten screw snugly, but do not fully tighten.
13. Install 3/4-inch long button head screw with lockwasher and 5/8 inch OD flat washer (from air deflector kit) through lower hole in adjustment handle bracket and through lower mounting hole of air deflector. Install screw into lower self-clinching nut in frame cross-member plate (installed as part of air deflector kit). While holding bracket and air deflector aligned, and with hook/bent tab of adjustment handle bracket tight against upper edge of large oval slot in frame, tighten screw.
Torque: 2.8–3.9 N·m (25–35 in-lbs) Screw
14. While holding bracket and air deflector aligned, and with hook/bent tab of adjustment handle bracket tight against upper edge of large oval slot in frame cross-member plate, tighten upper screw.
Torque: 2.8–3.9 N·m (25–35 in-lbs) Screw
15. California models with the evaporator canister tube: See Figure 14. Obtain the adhesive-backed clip (17) from kit. Clean the flat area of the adjustment handle bracket approximately in the location where the stock plastic hose clip was removed using isopropyl alcohol. Attach the clip to the bracket and route the evaporator tube through the clip. Fold clip down to capture the tube securely.
16. See Figure 10. Finish routing cable (1) between the battery compartment and the fuse/electrical box. It may be necessary to loosen electrical box to fit the cable between the frame and the electrical box. Continue routing the cable (1) up from the rear of the electrical box to between the frame and the rear fender, and finally up to the top of the rear fender and to the backrest bracket.
NOTE
Over-tightening the adjustment handle screws may cause damage to the adjustment handle.
17. See Figure 3. Install the backrest adjustment handle (2) in the adjustment handle bracket (1) as shown with the provided flat head screws (3)(Item 5, Figure 14 ). Tighten screws securely.
1Backrest bracket
2Flange nuts
3Electrical connector
Figure 6. Attach Backrest Bracket with Flange Nuts and Screw
1Cable end
2Adjustment handle bracket
Figure 7. Seat Adjustment Cable Position (View from Under Installed Handle)
FINAL INSTALLATION - ALL MODELS
1. See Figure 4. Install speed nut (1) in location shown.
2. 1999 and Later Models: See Figure 14. Install backrest bracket (1) as shown using the flange nuts (2), washers (3) and screw (5). 1997-1998 Models: Use hex screws (4) and washers (3).
3. See Figure 6. Slide the electrical connector (3) to the side so that the bracket does not interfere with it.
1Lower drain hole (under frame cross-member plate)
2Large oval slot
3Frame cross-member plate
Figure 8. Route Backrest Cable Through Frame (2008 Models Shown)
4. See Figure 11. Attach the release cable (1) to the backrest mounting bracket (2) as shown. Carefully secure the cable to the shaft of the gas spring (4) with the provided cable strap (3).
SEAT PROTECTOR INSTALLATION
  1. Temporarily install the seat over the backrest mechanism.
  2. Install but do not tighten the seat mounting hardware.
  3. Install the rider backrest following the instructions under BACKREST INSTALLATION.
  4. See Figure 14. Obtain seat protector (20).
  5. Apply masking tape to seat protector as an aid to locate the protector in the seat.
    1. Apply masking tape to the smooth, non-adhesive side of the seat protector.
    2. Masking tape should extend 2 in (5.1 cm) past each edge of the shorter side of the seat protector.
  6. Insert the seat protector from above between the rear of the seat opening and the backrest mechanism all the way to the edge with the tape. Do not tape protector to seat at this time.
  7. See Figure 13. With the backrest and seat in place, push the backrest to the fully forward position (3). The backrest mechanism will press against the underside of the seat and against the inserted seat protector.
    8. NOTE
    The purpose of the seat protector is to prevent premature wear between the backrest mechanism and the underside of the seat. If the seat protector is placed too low in the seat opening, the backrest mechanism, when pushed forward, may snag the upper edge of the protector and be difficult to return upright.
  8. With backrest mechanism fully forward, adjust the seat protector so the upper-most edge is positioned roughly 1/2 inch (13 mm) above the rear edge of the mechanism within the seat pocket.
  9. Temporarily adhere the masking tape to the seat to retain the determined position.
  10. Keeping the seat protector taped in place, remove seat and place upside down on a smooth, clean surface.
  11. Mark or otherwise indicate the location of the edges of the seat protector on the underside of the seat.
  12. Remove the protector from the seat and the masking tape from the protector.
    13. NOTE
    To keep the inserted backrest from snagging the protector when the backrest is being installed, slightly roll the top-most edge of the seat protector that will be nearest the pillion portion of the seat.
  13. See Figure 9. Take note of the shape of the surface the seat protector (2) will cover and gently shape the protector to better fit the seat contours (1).
  14. Note the location of the seat protector and clean a roughly four inch square area with soapy water or alcohol.
  15. Remove adhesive liner from seat protector and place the seat protector over the intended location.
  16. Press from middle of seat protector outward to remove air bubbles trapped between protector and seat.
  17. Allow 24 hours for adhesive to fully cure before getting wet or placing in extreme temperatures.
SEAT INSTALLATION
WARNING
After installing seat, pull upward on seat to be sure it is locked in position. While riding, a loose seat can shift causing loss of control, which could result in death or serious injury. (00070b)
Install seat and grab strap (if equipped) with the previously removed hardware.
1Seat contour
2Seat protector
Figure 9. Underside of Seat
1Backrest cable
Figure 10. Backrest Cable Routing
1Release cable
2Backrest bracket
3Cable strap
4Gas spring shaft
Figure 11. Attach Cable to Backrest Bracket
BACKREST INSTALLATION
WARNING
After installing backrest, pull upward to be sure it is locked in position. While riding, a loose backrest can shift causing loss of control, which could result in death or serious injury. (00386a)
1. See Figure 12. Press on lever located on backrest bracket as shown. Insert backrest and press gently until it snaps into place.
Figure 12. Installing Backrest
OPERATION
WARNING
After installing backrest, pull upward to be sure it is locked in position. While riding, a loose backrest can shift causing loss of control, which could result in death or serious injury. (00386a)
1. See Figure 13. The adjustment handle is used to move the backrest pad into the forward and rearward positions.
2. To adjust the backrest pad forward or rearward (2), push the handle. Leaning back against the backrest pad will help adjust it rearward. Keeping your weight off of the backrest pad while pushing on the handle will cause the backrest to come to its full forward position. Releasing the handle will lock the backrest into place.
3. To adjust the backrest pad up and down (1), pull the knob on rear of pad. Move the backrest up or down into the desired position then release when the pad is in the desired position.
NOTE
Be careful when pushing the seat to the full forward mounting position (3). Pushing the seat forward too far could tear the seat material.
4. The backrest pad may be pushed forward against seat (3) as shown to ease in getting off and on the motorcycle without activating the release handle.
1Vertical adjustment
2Upright range
3Full forward mounting position
Figure 13. Backrest Postions
SERVICE PARTS
Figure 14. Service Parts: Adjustable Rider Backrest Mounting Hardware Kit
Table 1. Service Parts Table: Adjustable Rider Backrest
Item
Description (Quantity)
Part Number
1
Backrest mounting base
52482-01A
2
Flange nut 1/4-20 (2)
7716
3
Washer (2)
6223
4
Hex flange screw, (2) (1997-1998 models)
Not Sold Separately
5
Hex flange screw, 1/4-20 x 5/8 inch (2)
3921
6
Speed nut
8108
7
Actuator Handle Kit (includes Items 8-19)
52367-09
8
  • Wire clip
Not Sold Separately
9
  • Actuator handle and cable
Not sold separately
10
  • Actuator handle bracket
Not Sold Separately
11
  • Self tapping screw 5/16-18 x 3/4 inch
4328
12
  • Cable strap
Not Sold Separately
13
  • Flange nut 1/4-20 (2000-2008 models)
7716
14
  • Flat head screw, 10-24
2933
15
  • Nut, self-clinching, 1/4-20 (2008 models)
8194
16
  • Hex head cap screw, 1/4-20 x 1.0 inch (2008 models)
2551W
17
  • Adhesive clip
10103
18
  • Handle bracket shim (2008 models)
Not Sold Separately
19
  • Nut w/lockwasher, 10-20 keps (2)
7838
20
Seat protector, adhesive backed, 3 1/2 x 3 inch
52300017
21
Gas spring kit
52300681
Items referenced in text, but not included in kit:
A
Backrest pad
Sold Separately
B
Pivot bracket repair kit (includes pivot bracket, lever, spring and hardware)
52342-09