mystery primary washers

REDRUM INK · #1 06-24-2008, 09:19 PM

&nbsp\\;i removed my primary cover to replace a starter soleniod shifter lever. 2 washers fell out when the cover was removed. 1 washer about the size of a quarter the other about the size half dollar. i believe one of the washers goes on the starter, however i don't have a clue where the other goes. my manual doesn't show placement of other washer. if anyone could help it would be great.

piniongear · #2 06-24-2008, 09:29 PM

Well it sure helps to know what year model you have.
It also helps to see pics of the mystery washers.
The only two places that I can think of is (1) off the end of the starter shaft and (2) off the clutch ramp, although that would be a stretch.

Have you owned the bike for a long time, or is it a recent purchase (where someone else may have dropped some parts inside the primary/) All information you can give us will help give to give a better reply to your question...........pg

piniongear · #3 06-24-2008, 10:36 PM

I did a little digging and see where you posted in April this year saying you had just bought a 1972 ironhead. I will assume it is an XLH model having an electric starter.

The only two places that I can think of where loose washers in the primary may have come from is this:

Pic #1.......washer (item #15) is a thrust washer for the starter shaft. It rests on the pinion shaft bearing race, between the pinion and the caged needle bearing that fits in the primary cover. This washer may have fallen off the shaft as the primary cover was being replaced (by someone else, not necessarily you). This washer may be the one you describe as a quarter size washer.

Pic #2......washer (item #9 ) is part of the clutch release ramp lever. This is what sounds like might be that half dollar sized washer you describe. However, if it were then that will mean your clutch would not be working. This washer is fastened together with a number of other pieces and if they had come apart, there would be 3 balls and other metal pieces inside the primary.
A more likely explanation of this washer's presence is that it was left or dumped into the primary by someone before you got the bike. Anyway, it should not be in there floating around loose. If it were to lodge in the chain sprockets, you could kiss your engine good-bye forever........pg

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