Took my '03 Low Rider to a dealer last Saturday to have a knocking noise checked out. The tech removed the primary cover, made an inspection and concluded the noise was coming from the top end of the motor. The dealer quoted me $1,000 to open up the motor and determine what's wrong. I'm no mechanic, but when I listened to the motor, the knocking was definitely coming from the primary. I told the dealer no thanks and rode home.

Yesterday, I took my bike to an independent shop. Within minutes after removing the primary cover, they discovered the bolt securing the compensator needed to be torqued. A handshake and $45 later, I was on my way.

I thought the HD dealer deserved some feedback on my experience, so I called the service manager. I explained how the tech misdiagnosed my problem and the $1,000 quote. He said he appreciated my call and would talk with the tech.

 

Precisely why I do all my own work....

If that's not possible for you, then stick with an honest independent...guess you know that now! Live and learn

 

And give him a pat on the back, heh. He's probably thinking, $1k quote? That's doing your job son. Don't worry about losing that one though, there's plenty of others that will fall for it.

 

LOL!

It does make you wonder.

 

Not all dealers are the same. Sounds like the one you went to needs to hire some better techs. May have to offer to pay more to get better quality ones.

 

Yep and don't forget to tell your brothers what indy hooked you up.

 

Kalbo's Performance Cycle, Joliet, IL
http://www.kalbosperformancecycle.com/

 

Exactly why I do all that I can myself.

 

I'd do more work myself if I had time. I travel with work. When I have free time at home, I'd much rather ride than wrench.

 

I had our flrt serviced, 1,000 mile service. I noticed a knocking when i took off when it had not warmed up completely. Coming from the compensator. Then i heard it in the clutch area. Done some research. Drained the primary, 28 oz drained out. I put in 38 oz as the manual says. Knocking was gone. Completely.
i called and reported it. They said not to over fill it??
so, some of the techs are putting in 32 oz instead of tbe required 38 oz.
if you have the new compensator and occur any knocking at times I suggest checking it.
made a difference for sure
I do almost all my service myself.