new here--i know very little about harleys.i just bought an 81 sportster that i thought had been raked out....in the process of finding out for sure...rake/trail etc.
the thing is not shifting and the clutch is slipping.i am guessing it needs a new clutch.ive never done that before...only read over it in crotch rocket repair manuals but it looked like a headache.i am pretty mech inclined but mostly with autos.can someone tell me how hard it is to do this?anything else it could be?is the transmission fluid different than the engine fluid?---------btw the clutch cable looked as if it is adjusted about as far out as it will go.i dont have a repair manual but i have one on its way.------------any help is appreciated.

 

first of you need a manual to help and the cable probale is ok they just have alot sticking out try adusting it first then gko from there the cheapest would be a chriten manual they are at your local independant shop and talk with them they problely will help you or direct you in the right way and enjoy you sporty iknow i did

 

Replacing the clutch discs is a fairly easy job if you have the right tools. There is another clutch adjustment that is done by removing the inspection cover over the clutch pack. It's easier to do it by using the procedures in the shop manual than by trying to explain it to you here. The primary fluid is different than the oil used in the engine. It's called Sport Trans Fluid and can be bought at a dealer or online. If you get engine oil in the primary you're going to have to replace the clutch discs anyway. If you can afford it your best bet is to get a factory repair manual - those Chilton & Haynes manuals are a waste of money and are condensed down to the very basics.

 

ok thanks guys.i have already purchased a haynes/chilton online.i usually can figure things out with them ok.i realize they have their limits though.i may get a fac. manual later.
i also have a habit of not writing things as clearly as i should...hope you guys bear with me as i am sure you will be seeing alot of me in here...asking stupid questions.

what are the "right"tools needed to change out the clutch???

 

http://www.ironheadcycle.com/pages/howto6.htm

 

http://autos.groups.yahoo.com/group/...ortstergarage/

Search the archives - then ask your questions...

 

I'd drop kick the haynes manual.It is useless.Check out ebay for a clymer or a Harley Manual.I got a pristine official Harley Manual for $15 on ebay myself.The clutch rebuild on an ironhead is pretty easy with the proper manual.