How do you measure the slack in your primary chain?

 

You lift up on the chain through the inspection cover or remove the primary cover.

You can also make one of these to do it.. https://www.hdforums.com/m_73370/tm.htm

 

When you are doing a manual adjustment you have to make sure that you adjust at the tightest part of the chain, so put her on a stand, and spin the chain around (by spinning the wheel) while lightly feeling the tightness of the chain. You will feel the tension on your finger.. Swing that spot of chain to the tension adjuster when measuring the freeplay on the chain. 5/8" up and down movement, and tighten the bolt.

 

I should have explained myself better, sorry. What tool/instrament do I use to measure the slack? I have a service manual and it just tells how much slack should be in the chain, but doesn't tell how to measure it.

 

Or you could buy one of these.
http://www.harleyhog.co.uk/liotchainadjuster.htm

 

Thanks Thomas, I just ordered one. For $15 its a good tool to have in the box. :-)

 

I am trying to do the primary chain adjust last weekend... I am really confuse... I got the service manual but it is not clear how to do this...

How do one adjust this chain? The chains will go up and down as much as I want... Do I check the slack on the chain on top??? If not, how do you find the slack on the bottom one?

Doesn't checking the slack on top chain the same as the bottom one???

Help!!!... I need to get this done, so I can ride my bike again! I don't want to mess anything up...

 

Loosen the nut on the chain tensioner, pull it up to tighten the chain. feel the amount of play on the top of the chain, measuring the amount of moovement in the chain in the middle, between the clutch basket sprocket, and the compensating sprocket. When you get it to have slack of 5/8" to 7/8" max, tighten the nut on the tensioner.

If you are trying to do this through the inspection cover and you are still confused, buy a gasket, and pull the outer primary off so that you can see everything. It's alot easier that way the first time. If you are still having troubles in the morning P.M. me and I will send you complete pictures of the whole procedure. I can't now since the shots are in my work computer.

 

I got mine in the mail. Looks like good quality and very quick shipping. I know I could make something, but for the price I think it is a good tool to have. Thanks for the tip.

 

Good Deal.
You are welcome.
That is what this forum is all about to help each other out.