3 out of 4 shock nuts match - how much trouble am I in?

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  • 80GS850GBob
    • Feb 2026

    #1

    3 out of 4 shock nuts match - how much trouble am I in?

    Just got back from the garage where I was turning the shocks around so the oem damper adjustments were facing out...and hit a problem!
    Seems the PO had an issue with the alt side top shock nut and it's been retapped a sized smaller. I first noticed it when the 17mm wrench was too big to remove it and had to grab a 14mm wrench to do the job. Seems like it's a now a 5/16" standard nut...will confirm tomorrow at local hardware store. Shaft OD where the shock sits is unaltered...just the threaded portion for the nut.
    So...aside from multiple four letter words being strung together - what are my options?
    -Leave it and hope it doesn't become a problem {more of a problem!}
    -Try to remove and weld on a new stud mount {ugh}
    -Go frame shopping

    Anyone else face this problem?
  • Steve
    GS Whisperer
    • Jun 2005
    • 35925
    • southwest oHIo

    #2
    There is no stress on that nut, it only holds the shock in place. Since the shoulder where the shock sits is unaffected, just make sure you have a large enough fender washer between the shock bushing and the nut, snug it down and go ride.

    .
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    • 80GS850GBob

      #3
      Originally posted by Steve
      There is no stress on that nut, it only holds the shock in place. Since the shoulder where the shock sits is unaffected, just make sure you have a large enough fender washer between the shock bushing and the nut, snug it down and go ride.

      .
      I guess I never really noticed it when I bought the bike...she was missing the side grab handle and there was a open goldish nylock nut there...next time I'll pay better attention!

      Comment

      • wymple
        Forum Sage
        Past Site Supporter
        • Apr 2014
        • 1893
        • SE Iowa

        #4
        You don't even have a problem. It's nothing unless you're going for a 100 point restoration.

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        • 80GS850GBob

          #5
          Thanks guys...I appreciate the valued input!

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