on a sportster, can it be done? just curious, are there kits to rebuild the transmission or anything like that?

 

34 views and now responses? nevermind then haha

 

I don't think it can be done on the '86-'90.Actually I think these are the last years of the 4 speed.I believe '91-up are all 5 speed.
I don't think there is enough room.I had my trans completely rebuilt and blueprinted about 1 1/2 yrs ago but a 5 speed was not an option.I used an Andrews "W" or wide 1st for a more usable 1st gear and "C" or close for 2-4.It's geared for torque but hums at hwy speeds.Sprocket change is always an option for either direction....more torque or lower hwy rpms
I like my 4speed.Seems to be less and less out there.I have no problems at hwy speeds.It will start to scream a littlewhen I'm appraoching 100 mph but it's definately got more.I don't ride like that much and at 70-80mph the bike hums right along

 

I got a '89 4 speed. My mechanic pro says it can not be done and I forget why,,,just can't be done cause of room and a redesign after 1990. But I like the 4 speed esp ard town cause maybe there's less shifting up and down. With chain and sprockets we do have more options than the belt-pulley guys. Just hope that cheap potmetal detent they put in there doesn't break..

hyway61

 

in the '86- '90 sportster, the alternator is behind the clutch hub , in front of the tranny. In '91 they moved the alternator up to the front, to the crankshaft. That freed up more space in the tranny for more gears...

 

The usual test, when answering trans questions, is to see if Baker does one - and the answer is no! Their 5-speed kit only fits from 1991 on.

 

No. The cases were redesigned as well to make room. It's just not possible.