I need to check/add oil in my primary and transmission. Where can I find the access area for the transmission? I know with the primary there are two allen screws on the primary cover. How much should I add to each? Is it recommended to replace these fluids every oil change?

-Ryan

 

Your Sportster does not have a separate transmission. To check the level in the primary, you will need to remove the derby cover (should be five torx bolts). Make sure the bike is vertical by putting a small block under the side stand or putting the bike on a lift and make sure you use the exact size torx wrench or you will strip the bolt heads. The level should just cover the bottom of the gears. To re-install the derby cover, you may need to put a little grease or vaseline on the gasket to hold it in place while you button up the cover. Tighten the cover bolts a little at a time using a crossing pattern.

I replace my primary and crankcase fluid every 2500 miles.

If you don't have an HD service manual for your bike, get one at the Harley shop. It is the best $50 you can spend there.

 

Thanks oldgeezer,

Are the torx wrench you speak of run of the mill allen wrenches or do you recommend going out to Sears or the Stealership and getting special wrenches to open the primary?

 

Should us sportster owners skip the 75W-90 all together and run 20-50 in the oil tank and primary? Since oldgeezer enlightened me there is no seperate tranny?

 

The derby cover bolts should be torx. I have a set that I got at an auto parts house but Sears would carry them. Just make sure the wrench fits exactly, close won't cut it, especially since the factory cinches them up pretty tight. You can run several different oils in the primary from HD primary oil to synthetic 20W-50. Your call on that. Just don't run 75W-90 gear oil.

 

Anyone have advice about how to do fill the primary as far as the amount and how to add without spilling on the floor?

 

I have a funnel with a long and small end that will wedge down between the gear and the primary cover where the derby cover goes. Your owner's manual should give you the fill capacity so put in the measured amount, usually around 20 ounces or so.