Here's a look at the Cobra Chrome drive shaft cover that I installed. I have seen many questions about these come up on the forum and figured I could lay some rumors to rest about how to install them and what is involved. Pictures speak a thousand words!
Below, in Picture
#1, you can see what all is included in this kit. It is a half circle
cover of chromed metal,
along with two large tie-wraps. From this you can envision that no, the drive shaft
definitely does not need
to be removed for installation of this cover.
NOTE: If installing Cobras Drive Shaft Nut Cover, go down to the next procedure and install it first or click HERE.
Picture #1. Cobra Chrome Drive Shaft Cover Kit
I opted to replace the tie wraps with some metal hose clamps shown in Picture #2. My experience with plastic tie wraps is after time they get brittle from the heat and exposure.
Picture #2. Metal Hose Clamp
In Picture #3 below, you can see how the clamps or ties work. These will hold the chrome cover securely to your drive shaft. One end of the cover is flared to fit over the wider section of the drive shaft at the rear drive assembly. With that in mind, insert the clamps so the screws will be facing away from the bike and under the shaft. Similarly, arrange the tie-wraps this way as well so the bulk will be under the shaft and out of view once installed.
Picture #3. Cobra Drive Shaft Cover with Clamps
Once both clamps or tie-wraps are in place, slide the front end of the cover over the shaft as shown in Picture #4, ensuring that the clamp or tie-wrap goes around the shaft. Slide the cover as far forward as you can.
Picture #4. Headlamp Assembly Nuts
Once the cover is on, slide it back to the rear wheel drive assembly. Use a flathead-screwdriver or a 5/16ths socket (preferable) to tighten the clamps. Similarly, insert the tie-wrap end into the cinch head and pull until taught. Cut off any excess from the tie-wrap.
Picture #5. Chrome Drive Shaft Cover Clamp Screws
Here are a before and after photo of the drive shaft. Note the sexy leg in the
reflection! ;-)
Looks much nicer than that black chunk with stickers!
Picture #6 and #7. Before and After Drive Shaft Photos
For a completed look, use Cobras Drive Shaft Bolt Cover as well. If installing this you should do so before installing the Drive Shaft Chrome Cover as the Nut Cover will not fit over the Shaft Cover. Go ahead....chuckle your little heart out!
The nut cover is open on the back side and slides over the drive shaft. Press it back towards the drive assembly and over the bolts as shown in Picture #8.
Picture #8. Drive Shaft Bolt Cover Installed
There are two set screws which require a #3 Metric Allen-head wrench to tighten. See Picture #9.
Picture #9. Set Screw Shown
Here is a shot at a distance of the drive shaft all dressed up. A chrome side frame cover is on order and should be in any day to cover the rest of that black between the shaft and the engine cover. Pics to follow.
Picture #10. Drive Shaft Dressed Up
Gonzo
02' Shadow Spirit