Hey guys I need to remove the rear skid from my 03 600 Classic Touring.
Its an X-Tra 12 suspension.
Im very good mechanically but have never taken out a skid frame.
Is there anything I need to watch out for, does anyone have any tricks that would help?
Also what happens to all that energy in the springs? will things go boiiing as I loosen the
mounting bolts?

Any advice would be appreciated.
Thanks in advance.
Jim

Things will not go boing, the limiter straps keep the suspension under tension somewhat.
Loosen the track tension FULLY!
Raise the sled as high as possible to make it easy to work on but if you are working alone you will need to allow the track to sit on the ground as you slide the skid out of the track. Probably the hardest part is getting the bolts loose, as you loosen one side the other side will want to turn. The shafts are not keyed to the tunnel so they spin as you try to remove the bolts. If you have an air gun you can zip them out easy.

as said above air rachet helps a lot getting the bolts out.

I'm not familiar with the x12 but on the x10 and edge I always take off the tension of the rear torsion springs. Also, when putting it back together, I often find it easier to put the sled on its side when putting the skid back in the tunnel.

You can't remove all tension on x12 because of coil over shocks. I find it easier to use a ratchet strap to compress the rear arm on removal and instal

Great idea... I never thought of that! Would definately make the job easier.

Guess thats why you are shock guy and I'm not!

Remove top mounting bolt from rear shock, both shock and rear torque arm should lay right down allowing for plenty of slack in the track, I do this with my M - 10 and it works like a charm.

on x12 you would have to unbolt both shocks for it to lay down and they both flop around

Thanks for all the help guys, it doesn't sound bad
at all.
Ill be tackling this one real soon.

Thanks again
Jim