Is there a trick to changing the primary chain oiler hose? Surely you don't have to remove the inner primary to do this. Any help is appreciated.

 

Welcome to HD Forums. We have a specific Shovelhead section that may help you:

https://www.hdforums.com/forum/shovelhead-62/

 

Nope there is no trick that I've found that works without hours of frustration. Some times you can get a new hose on with a pair of hemostats. Bite the bullet and take off the inner primary. You need to buy a clutch puller and a big *** socket for the front sprocket nut. Don't forget to remove the bolts on the starter housing. While you have it apart replace the the transmission sprocket. The service and parts manuals are your friends. Use them.

 

Thanks for taking the time to help. I picked up this 1981 Heritage thats been in storage since 1985. Only has 9960 miles on it. I doubt that the pocket needs changing but I will be sure to check it out. I even thought about blocking off the oiler and sealing the primary to save some trouble, but I would still have to change the clutch plates.

Thanks again!

 

you need to do a search in this area and educate your self in what you are about to do, the guys will help BUT you must have the factory books as the guide

the system is a semi wet system and as such the clutch is as well Y would you think to change it lends its self to you need to do some reading

that early bike is likely to have a loose sprocket nut and the suggest given is a good one, the inner primary removal is simple, as it may because of its age in the hoses a good thing to replace all of them NOW rather then have it leak after you do the job

take your time do it right the first time is the best approach and change everything that is rubber or paper or serves as a locking stay

 

Get yourself a 6" or slightly lager mirror a small light you shine on it and slide the mirror under the primary till you can see the line and you need a pair of these.

https://www.amazon.com/Chicago-Tool-...le+nose+pliers

works best if the bikes on a table lift but you can get at it on the ground just block the kickstand so the bikes sits more upright a go at it with a lot of cussing.

 

Got the oil line on by crawling under my lift. Still have my patience.

Thanks

 

Thanks to all who take the time to help a biker in need of information. I have the OEM Harley Manual for this, but this is an item that is not covered. I've been turning wrenches since I was 12, but it was the aircraft mechanic time that gave me the patience for this one.

Information from someone like you guys that have crossed this bridge before is priceless.

Thank you again

 

Better patience than I have,
Primary on mine has been isolated since I've had it,
Not crazy about fibers&crap gittin in my oil,
But that's just me,

 

Just a caution on an isolated primary. They work good as long as you keep the proper oil level. If it gets low it will destroy the chain adjuster pad and ruin the chain in a short time.