I have 99 ultra classic with 29k miles. Recently developed oil leak. Had 20w50 synthetic in all three holes. I changed that to primary oil in the primary and gear oil in the trans ( to see where leak was coming from) because it was difficult to see location without disassembly. Refilled and took a week long 1200 mile ride. The leak seem to have gotten less and never needed to add gear oil on the trip. Upon return my trans' gear oil is grey ish color. Note: I did ride in 6-8 hours of rain, 4 hours on one occasion. But there was very little material on my drain plug magnet. (Smooth substance about half the size of a pencil eraser). Now above all, I am starting to hear a noise, sounds like a light chatter when I am running steady rpm on flat road. Noise is more pronounced letting up slightly on throttle or going down hill no throttle. Does not do this when engine is cold. Only after engine warms up and gets hot. I get full service done at 2500 miles and I am at 2600 right now. I changed trans oil to give it 200-300 more miles, just to see if it changes colors again. What should I expect?? Anyone have any ideas??

 

i think you have some bearings going bad. grey fluid normally means metal in the oil. most likely the trap door bearings. does the clutch lever move on you in fifth gear when giving it some throttle ? run it some more and see if it turns grey again. if it does i would say you are in for a tear down.

 

I haven't notice the clutch lever moving in 5th gear. I will take notice on next ride. Thanks for any ideas

 

Gray fluid is usually caused by moisture contamination, a fluid change is all that is needed.

Forget about the clutch lever moving scenario, it does not apply to the 5 speed transmissions; they have straight cut gears so they do not apply lateral force on the shafts.

 

Thank you. I'm hoping its moisture, I was told it could be. Trans oil is already changed. Just have not had time to rack up a few miles yet. I'm hoping thanks again

 

that went right over my head it being a five speed. my mistake. gotta start paying more attention . i thought if would have water in it, it would be milky looking ?