I have a 91 Softail and it just started making this whirring noise only when Im moving, doesnt matter if Im in gear or Neutral clutch in or out as long as the back wheel is spinning the noise is there, Ive put it up on my jack and spun the wheel with the motor off and I hear a creeking sound from the front belt pully area, anybody with any ideas ? I took off the Derby cover and checked and adjusted the clutch, didnt see anything abnormal, fluids good, noise is getting louder

 

Inner primary bearing is on its way out , or the front pulley nut has come loose.

Since you don`t hear the noise while the bike is stationary, my bet is on the loose pulley.

 

Thanks, not sure how the pulley bolt could come loose, i watched the front pulley while I was spinning the wheel and it seemed true, I can almost feel it in the belt when I turn the wheel and it makes a creeking sound, I have a feeling its a bearing

 

It was a common problem in the pre `94 models. The pulley, nut, lock, spacer and oil seal were all re designed to help solve this issue.

Whatever it is, you will need to remove the inner primary cover to find out.

 

Thanks I'll check that out, if its been redesigned Id probably like to change those parts anyway, looking at it more last night it almost sounds like my belts rubbing, like a squeaky bushing creaking sound, I guess if thats bolts getting loose it could make a sound like that

 

Sometimes the belts can make some weird noises, make sure the tension is correct and the rear wheel is lined up properly. Also you could try cleaning the belt and the rear pulley with soap and water.

If none of this works, you will probably be removing the inner primary...

How many miles on the bike?

 

The bike is very low miles only 9k and Im the original owner, Im actually a Viper tech for Dodge of 30 years and it doesnt sound like any bearing noise Ive ever heard, it does sound more like a belt noise but I dont see anything out of alignment, I did put new rims and tires and a new pulley on the rear at the beginning of the summer and its been fine until this.

 

9k is pretty low mileage to have a pulley come loose, or a bearing go out, the five speed transmissions are pretty much bulletproof. Maybe it is just a belt noise.

 

Thats what Im hoping, thanks for your input