Vice Grips?! Did he say VICE GRIPS???!!!!
Dude, let's start with.........if you are going to work on an American Classic, you get yourself a good set of REAL tools!! Let's invest in some sockets, ratchets, etc.. (American AND Metric threads).
If you are going to put your hands on a HD Softtail, at least give it the respect it deserves, by using proper tools!! (I know that Vice Grips can be useful. I own a few sets. But REALLY dude. Your messing with the heart of the bike.........treat it with the respect it has earned). That ain't no Suzuki 250 you have in your garage!!
Righty-tighty, Lefty-loosey on those rods!!
-Soupy