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1985 FLHT Clutch Release Conversion

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Old Dec 30, 2007 | 05:11 PM
  #1  
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Default 1985 FLHT Clutch Release Conversion

Hi Guys,

Would like to update/convert my 1985 FLHT to 1987-1989 clutch release setup.

My clutch release shaft breaks every year and it is irriating at best.

I want to install ball and rampsetup - looking at # 6300215 - jp catalog

Need side cover- clutch cable andNOT sure about trans push rod on right side- behind clutch cable cover


Lets Talk

zenon9

Thanks
 
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Old Dec 30, 2007 | 09:11 PM
  #2  
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Default RE: 1985 FLHT Clutch Release Conversion

Are you sure your clutch is adjusted properly? I'd go through the shop manual and make sure of that first. I have 75K miles on my bike which has the same set up as yours, and in that time I have broke one set of release fingers (spare in the tourpack) about 15 years ago.

Otherwise, if you want to change it to the newer style, I'd call JP tech support and ask them if you need the push rod or not.

Also, stick with Genuine HD parts for things like this whenever possible. Have you been breaking Genuine HD pieces every year or aftermarket stuff?
 
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Old Dec 31, 2007 | 09:18 AM
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Default RE: 1985 FLHT Clutch Release Conversion

Hi Dr.Hess

It has been about 4 events over6 years I would think.

2 fingers and 2 shafts.However - I did update the clutch system 2 years ago to a 1990 setup-clutch hub, Barnett clutchsetup complete due toeasy of mechanical assembly and adjustment. It is a heavy duty clutch but I have a 96 cubic inch S&S engine with a 6 speed Baker OD Transmission.
I canfix the problem in less than one hour but when it happens I may be hundred of miles from home and on my fun run to speak. I do not intend to purchase a new Harley so I just keep upgrading this one.

Theoritically- A heavier finger and shaft assembly would be the answer - but these bikes are so old, no one bothers about improving the bugs.

I will check with JP Tech and myinstructor at the technical school. Resourceslike this conversation have been very helpful and Iam happy about the knowledge I have gained onHarley Davidson and hundreds of dollars - but you have got to Love It( riding that is).
 
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Old Jan 6, 2008 | 12:11 PM
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Default RE: 1985 FLHT Clutch Release Conversion

1. OEM 37105-87A Side Cover or
OEM 37105-99Side Cover $ 25 to $150 ball & ramp may not be included
2. OEM 36801-87CGasket - SideCover$ 4
3. OEM 38607-87A Clutch Cable $ 57
4. OEM 450360-88 Clutch Cable Pin $ 2
5. Must have newerstyle trap door installed on tranny
The trap door aspect will be the most costly part in your upgrade.
 
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Old Jan 15, 2008 | 07:54 PM
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Default RE: 1985 FLHT Clutch Release Conversion

Hi can't add anything about your clutch issue just wanted to say Hi from another 85 FLH rider.
 
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Old Jan 15, 2008 | 09:30 PM
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Default RE: 1985 FLHT Clutch Release Conversion

Hi D6CS

Ithink my project will be OK

I have all vthe part now - it has been too cold and stormy up here to stay out in the garage for very long - already cauhgt a cold from this weather just by working.

All the info is current - but I will let you know the final outcome in a few weeks.

Thanks for your interest.

zenon9
 
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Old Jan 23, 2008 | 12:10 AM
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Default RE: 1985 FLHT Clutch Release Conversion

Put the bike back together last week - ran it Saturday with a few minoradjustments.

I now have a ball and clampstyleclutch - installed White Brothers Easy Lite Clutch Pull System with a little fabrication - the project has turned out welltodateand I am very happy with the outcome.

That is it for now.

zenon 9
 
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Old Nov 23, 2016 | 05:34 PM
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Default

Originally Posted by zenon9
1. OEM 37105-87A Side Cover or
OEM 37105-99Side Cover $ 25 to $150 ball & ramp may not be included
2. OEM 36801-87CGasket - SideCover$ 4
3. OEM 38607-87A Clutch Cable $ 57
4. OEM 450360-88 Clutch Cable Pin $ 2
5. Must have newerstyle trap door installed on tranny
The trap door aspect will be the most costly part in your upgrade.
Are you still happy with this swap?

At this point wouldn't it be about the same price to just buy a newer used transmission?
 
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Old Nov 23, 2016 | 05:43 PM
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Originally Posted by Kyle Oden Patrick Hanson
Are you still happy with this swap?

At this point wouldn't it be about the same price to just buy a newer used transmission?
He hasn't been here in years.
You might try PMing him to see if you get a response.
 
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Old Nov 25, 2016 | 08:34 AM
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Originally Posted by Kyle Oden Patrick Hanson
Are you still happy with this swap?

At this point wouldn't it be about the same price to just buy a newer used transmission?
Slippery slope...If you go with a late model gearset newer than an `89, you will also need to replace the clutch, because `90 and later transmissions have a splined mainshaft, `89 and earlier have a tapered mainshaft .

You can just replace the trap door (and the ball bearings), then you can use the ball and ramp clutch release system.
 

Last edited by Dan89FLSTC; Nov 25, 2016 at 09:25 AM.
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