I've got an 83 XLS 1000 Roadster. Just lately (the noise has come on fairly fast) I've noticed a noise similar to a bad bearing while I am in first gear (not so bad) and third gear (quite bad). Second MIGHT be starting to be affected, but I really can't tell, and Fourth gear sounds fine. I'm not looking forward to splitting the case and swapping out a tranny. I've done this operation before on an old Yamaha 750 special and it wasn't fun.
Has anyone had a similar problem? I am assuming that I will be having to replace both the main and counter gears, the shafts, and the bearings, plus a bunch of seals and gaskets. If you DID have a similar prob, what did you find to be the main culprit?
Anyway, hope everyone had a great Labor Day. Peace.
[V]ad [V]onk [V]ort

 

first thing on a iron head the cases do not get split to pull the trans, i can have one out on the bench in a hour or so,sounds like you are correct in the bearings are going out , just be carefull and read your fsm, there are a couple things to look out for like the bearings on the far side(right side of the case) they like to try to fall out make sure you get them all, alot of info on the net!,

 

some guys have used heavier oil in their bikes and some noises have disappeared.

 

You need these before you start ...

99484-85 factory service manual
99451-85A factoru parts catalog

Widely available thru any of local bike shop, HD dealer, J&P Cycles, eBay and internet sellers.

Here's some additional help ...

Transmission Assembly, Tutorial w/Pics
http://xlforum.net/vbportal/forums/s...d.php?t=657134