Grease Fitting for Early Springer – OEM Ref 9851
Early Springer Hardware Depth — We supply complete early springer parts including specific thread pitch hardware for 1930s to 1970s platforms, verified against exact model year ranges before quotation.
Product Specification
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| OEM Reference | 9851 (reference only), 0344 (reference only) |
| Part Type | Grease Fitting |
| Thread | 5/16-32 |
| Finish | Cadmium plated |
| Quantity | 6 per package |
Fitment
| Platform | Year Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Big Twin | 1938-later | Used in early Springer forks and custom applications |
| 45ci | 1938-later | Front and rear applications |
| FL, FLH | 1936-1966 | Front and rear early Springer and chassis points |
| K Model | All years | Accepts 5/16-32 thread requirement |
| Sportster | All years | Accepts 5/16-32 thread requirement |
| K Model, Sportster | 1952-later | 4 speed with kickstart applications |
| K Model, Sportster | 1954-1977 | Rear applications |
Independent aftermarket part. Not manufactured, sold or endorsed by any motorcycle manufacturer. Model names and OEM numbers are used for fitment reference only.
Why Thread Pitch Matters for a Grease Fitting for Early Springer Rebuilds
Exact 5/16-32 threading prevents cross-threading in vintage rocker legs.
When rebuilding a 1938-later Big Twin or 1936-1966 FL front end, standard hardware often fails to match the original hole specifications. Using incorrect thread pitch ruins the rocker legs and causes grease leakage, stalling the entire chassis rebuild [NEED_CITE: factory service manual specifications by model year].
Verifying Hole Size on Vintage Fork Legs
Before installing a grease fitting for early springer components, measure the threaded hole on the rocker leg or wheel hub. The 5/16-32 specification is critical for 1936-1966 FL and FLH models, as well as all years K Model and Sportster platforms. Confirming this dimension ensures the hardware seats correctly without damaging the original casting.
Cross-Referencing Superseded Hardware Numbers
Old manuals often list superseded part numbers that no longer match current replacement hardware. This grease fitting for early springer applications cross-references HD# 9851 and 0344 (reference only) to help you identify the correct replacement for 1938-later Big Twin and 45ci platforms [NEED_CITE: superseded part number charts for pre-1984 models]. Always verify the thread pitch against the physical hole rather than relying solely on an old catalogue number.
Understanding the 5/16-32 Thread and Cadmium Finish
The 5/16-32 thread pitch is a fine thread standard used on early Springer forks, wheel hubs, seat bushings, and brake pedals. This specific pitch provides a secure grip in the softer metals of vintage chassis components. The cadmium plated finish offers period-correct appearance and corrosion resistance for custom applications where the hole size accepts this exact thread requirement.
The Cost of Incorrect Hardware on a Vintage Build
Installing a standard metric or coarse thread fitting into a 5/16-32 hole will strip the threads in the rocker leg or brake pedal. This forces the builder to drill out and re-tap the hole, or weld and re-machine the component, adding significant downtime to the rebuild. A grease fitting for early springer setups must match the exact pitch to preserve the integrity of the original parts [NEED_CITE: thread repair procedures for vintage fork legs].
Sourcing Verified Hardware for Discontinued Models
We verify fitment against the specific platform and year range before quoting, ensuring you receive the correct 5/16-32 hardware for your 1952-later K Model or 1954-1977 rear Sportster applications. Our catalogue covers early springer parts alongside complete assemblies and hydraulic fork components, allowing you to source all front-end hardware from a single account. We support one-piece minimum orders, so you can request a sample to confirm the thread fitment before placing a bulk order for your shop.
Documentation Provided
- Fitment sheet listing each year range this part was checked against
- Cross-reference sheet with HD# 9851 and 0344 marked reference only
- Finish specification detailing the cadmium plating process
- Quality inspection record confirming thread pitch accuracy
- Packing photographs showing the 6-piece package condition
Receipt and Pre-Installation Checks
- Verify the package contains 6 cadmium plated units upon delivery
- Check the 5/16-32 thread pitch against the fork leg or hub hole
- Inspect the cadmium finish for any plating defects before installation
- Confirm the model year range matches your specific Big Twin or Sportster build
- Store the hardware in a dry environment to maintain the cadmium finish
Requesting a Fitment Check
Send your model and year for a fitment check to confirm this hardware matches your specific early Springer fork or custom chassis application. Provide your OEM reference number, old hardware photos, or exact hole measurements to ensure accuracy. We will verify the 5/16-32 requirement against your platform and supply a sample if needed before you commit to a bulk order.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I confirm if my early Springer fork accepts the 5/16-32 thread?
A: Measure the threaded hole on the rocker leg or compare it against a known 5/16-32 bolt. This specification is standard for 1936-1966 FL, FLH, and all years K Model and Sportster platforms. If the hole matches this fine thread pitch, the hardware will seat correctly without cross-threading.
Q: What are the fitment differences across the 1936-1977 year ranges?
A: Fitment varies by platform and application point. Big Twin and 45ci use these for 1938-later early Springer forks, while FL and FLH cover 1936-1966 front and rear points. K Model and Sportster use them for all years, with specific 4-speed and rear applications spanning 1952-1977.
Q: Can I order single pieces instead of a full package of 6?
A: Yes, we support one-piece minimum orders. You can request individual units or a partial quantity for a specific restoration point, or order a sample to verify the 5/16-32 thread fitment on your vintage frame before committing to a larger bulk purchase for your shop.
Q: How do I cross-reference my old hardware to HD# 9851 and 0344?
A: Use HD# 9851 and 0344 (reference only) to identify the original specification. However, always verify the physical 5/16-32 thread pitch on your component, as older manuals may list superseded numbers that do not match the actual hole size on pre-1984 frames.