Adjusting front fork links on a '48 Chief

[Lipdog]

There was an excessive gap between one of the links and the fork, so I adjusted the link according to the procedure in the Owner's Manual: (1) Jack up front, (2) loosen both lock nuts, (3) tap the shaft with a plastic hammer to unseat the taper, (4) tighten the left nut so the shaft is free to turn, (5) adjust clearance by turning the shaft 1/4 turn at a time, and (6) tighten the nuts.

I was able to fix that gap and adjust the link, but now the shaft is not centered, with more threads showing on the right versus the left, as shown in the photos. How do I recenter the shaft so it is evenly adjusted? Also, should there be lock washers on the left side (I don't have any)?

Thanks.

[Bills37]

The left shackle is tapered and you want the rod to fully seat in the taper so I usually adjust it first leaving it just loose enough to turn. Then adjust the right side till there is no play and you can turn the knurled washers. Tighten the lock nuts and recheck. It may take several tries to get it right. Good luck.

[Lipdog]

Both sides are now adjusted properly so there is no play and I can turn the knurled washers. But now the shaft is not centered and there are more exposed threads on the right side versus the left. I still can't figure out how to adjust the shaft so the knurled washers work as they do now, but the shaft is centered.

[tomfiii]

Mine looks like your pictures. That's how they end up looking.

[pisten-bully]

Mine looks like your pictures. That's how they end up looking.

Exactly! A drop of Loctite is your friend here, too.

[Lipdog]

Cool, thanks. So just Loctite and no lock washers?

[pisten-bully]

Cool, thanks. So just Loctite and no lock washers?

Lockwashers yes! I think you’ll find with lock washers on the LH side that the ends of the cross links will be flush with the nut.