Man, what a PITA ! Replacing my clutch cable and cannot get the new cable to thread into the side tranny cover. Tried for almost 2 hours today and had to walk away. I've done clutch cables in the past including one on this bike but never had this much of a problem getting the cable to grab and start screwing into the cover ? I know it sometimes is hard to get them to line up but I had to give up on this one. Threads look good on cable and cover so just don't know. Tried giving it a good coating of the Redline tranny fluid but that didn't help. Guess I'll try again tomorrow. Any seasoned mechanics here got any tricks to get the threads to grab ?

 

Who made the cable? I had one that needed the threads cleaned up with a die to thread into the cover. I have to replace that cable now since it is a POS and is leaking where the crimp connection is at. My advice: send it back for a refund and find a Harley factory cable that will fit.

 

The way I do I is to hold the cable still in one hand, and screw on the cover to the cable. I have found that if I remove the snap ring, the *****, and the holder halves it makes it easier.

 

This works for me also

 

I know what you mean. I have done a few clutch cables too and they are frustrating. The first thing I do is lay the cable out on the floor then put the end that goes in the tranny side cover into the hole and try to find the correct angle so the threads catch. The best thing you did was walk away. When I get pissed and tired and frustrated I usually screw something up. You'll get it. Just another simple job that turns into a pain in the butt. Harley's are good for that. Good luck.

 

Yup, piece of cake

 

Easier to get it threaded in then run the cable to the bars.

 

A very wise member mentioned to me to tie a string from the end of the cable and hang it from the cieling. it would turn easier that way making it a sinch to install. he was right and thanks goes out to him for that useful bit of info.

 

when I have a problem like that, I close my eyes and complete the task by picturing it all in my brain and not actually looking at it

 

Yep. Good luck