Primary chain tension
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Stellar HDF Member
Joined: May 2015
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From: West Tennessee
Primary chain tension
Is primary chain over tensioning an issue on the 2011's? I don't think it has ever been checked on my bike and deciding if I should put it on my to do list. I know they supposedly redesigned those tensioners at one point. I only have about 2500 miles since I last changed the oil in all 3 holes. I know it needs to be checked but just wondering how pressing at 18k
Last edited by tnriverluver; May 10, 2017 at 08:35 PM.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Dec 2005
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From: poway
I know a dozen tech / mechs across the country. Few of them have had issues with the early tensioner (first year or 2) but the newer tensioner has not been an issue.. Heck I've got an 07 with a medium build 103 that has 80000 miles on it and still has the original tensioner. It's probably possible that some guys are banging the gear on decel when cold which is causing the tensioner too go tight.
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Stellar HDF Member
Joined: May 2015
Posts: 2,902
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From: West Tennessee
I'll hold off until the next oil change since I always change all 3. Hate to dump that expensive primary oil early. Hopefully nothing will break beforehand but unfortunately I know how my luck goes with stuff like this after I've thought about it 
Seasoned HDF Member
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From: poway
nope To do it right you need to pull the primary cover.
Stellar HDF Member
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My primary chain was whining, I took my auto chain tensioner off cleaned and reset on a looser setting , much better but it will probably ratchet back up , I am gonna go with the baker sooner or later it is alright for now. If it is not whinning louder than normal it is probably ok. You can get a long screw driver thru derby cover to chain and kinda check tension but not really a true measurement . A loose chain is a happy chain. Mine would whine after it heats up, silent when cold. It would whine clutch in or out, and only hear it at ldle following engine rpm
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Stellar HDF Member
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And if you get the baker you will have to take of front cover to check tension every 5k no big deal, like checking it on my old Fxr with out the access door!!
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Joined: Jun 2011
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From: Glendale AZ
I am set to check the baker every 7k routinely. I had one on my 11' Road King and it never needed adjustment during the 25k I had on the clock.
Last edited by TUCCI; May 11, 2017 at 08:24 AM.