Hi all,

A while back I posted a thread about a loud chain slapping noise when the throttle is adjusted quickly up or down like going over bumps etc...

Many of you suggested the compensator which I now believe is the culprit. I do not believe there is really anything wrong with mine and my Harley service manager said he hears bikes that make the noise and those that don't, but it does not mean there is something bad happening.

My question is - I have read on different forums that replacing the stock compensator can and does alleviate the slapping noise and most all replaced with either the SE sprocket/compensator or other brands.

Which do you recommend as a replacement? Is the SE a good replacement for a fairly stock bike or is there a better alternative?

Is this a do-it-yourself project? I watched some videos and it seems within the realm of something that does not look too difficult.

As always, thanks for your input!

 

Is this on an Evo?

 

If its a Twinkie id go with the Baker comp.

 

Bad compensator causing a chain slap noise? Wouldn't simple excessive slack be more likely?

 

what year is your bike? the newer ones got the SE comp stock

 

Sorry, I am still new to Harley's but what is a "Twinkie"? I have a 2012 RKC.

32k on the bike - could the chain already have that much slack?

If I am barking up the wrong tree - please let me know. I do not want to shotgun fix a problem that may not even be a problem.

Thanks again

 

Twin cam "twinkie". You have an auto adjuster. They only get tighter. Never loosen up. Need to get the specs on yours. My 07 is 5/8 cold. Since 07 the comps have been problematic on some bikes. Ive gone through 5 of them. Time to take the primary cover off and take some measurements.

I went to a manual adjuster because one day it decided to get too tight. I also ordered a Baker comp. Tired of replacing my comp every other year.

 

I have a 2012 sg luckily enough i havent had to change the compensator yet. But if your goin to replace it id go with the baker as well.

 

If your new to Harley and your bike has 32K on it I am going to guess you bought it used. The previous owner could have swapped the primary chain adjuster for an aftermarket like a Hayden or Baker. The Baker is a manual adjusting one so it is possible to get some chain slap if it is out of adjustment.

The compensator going south is very possible also. The lack of lubrication getting to the proper areas makes them go south prematurely. I went with a solid sprocket on mine to do away with the compensator and it works for me, but is not for everyone. The Baker Compensator is new to the market so the jury is still out on how it does, but knowing Baker it is probably a good piece.