So, I need to replace the compensator on my 04 Ultra. Apparently, the SE upgrade is not available for an 04. Baker also it seems does not have a "Kit" for an 04 either, just the "sprocket". Looks like I'm stuck with the OEM unit. Anyone know of a better compensator available for an 04 Ultra? Thanks

 

I don't know why, but the compensators on the pre 07 engines aren't a big problem. Unless you are really hard on your engine, I think you are safe with the OEM comp.

Beary

 

How many miles did the OEM one get you? Any reason to not go with it??

 

I've got almost 63,000 on the bike now. JP cycles has the OEM for $107.00 not too bad.

 

The reason I ask is from reading the stray threads on compensator issues, it seems switching to the SE setup wasn't a marked improvement for guys. Kind of a non issue for you since the SE isn't available but maybe it says the stock one is just fine.

 

There are many posts on the forum by those who have replaced their OEM compensators with SE's and got substantially less miles out of them than what you got with your stock compensator. For whatever reason, the OEM compensators in the early to mid 2000's seemed to hold hold up pretty well and didn't start to become a notable issue until around 06 or 07.

 

Unless your compensator has been damaged by by being used long after the first signs of weakness, it probably isn't the compensator that is the problem. It is the spring. That is contained in a metal "can" spot welded onto the rotor. Replacing the compensator without doing anything about the spring may not solve your problem. From here, I hope an "old head" will chime in with some recommendations. My scooter is an 08 so the SE Comp kit was available for mine and that is the way I went.

I have heard of placing a shim between the spring and the appropriate part of the compensator to return some of the lost spring force but have no personal experience with that. Perhaps an old Indy shop or experienced dealer tech could offer some suggestions.

 

What makes you think the comp is bad? The older style comps were generally not a problem.

 

btsom:
The OP's ‘04 has a differently designed compensator and rotor then your ‘08.
(described by some as almost bullet proof)

Unlike yours the spring-pack is not part of the rotor, but part of the Compensator sprocket Retainer and Cover.
( part number 40384-91 )

.

 

I have a banging, grinding sound on start up when hot some times. I originally thought it was the starter clutch, replaced that and no joy. Never does it when cold, only when warmed up.

I should have taken it apart and looked at it when I had everything opened up changing the starter clutch but, I had convinced myself it was the starter clutch so, I didn't. Rookie mistake. LOL