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Enclosed chain coversion.

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Old Mar 2, 2009 | 02:49 PM
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Default Enclosed chain coversion.

Ok.Ive got a 83 Flt that came with the enclosed chain.Well ive converted it from the enclosed chain to an open o-ring chain.But im now looking to switch to a belt final drive and was wondering if anyone has done the same.I know supermax makes a kit but 1300.00 is a little much for 2 pulleys and a belt.
 
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Old Mar 2, 2009 | 05:41 PM
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Originally Posted by legacycycles
Ok.Ive got a 83 Flt that came with the enclosed chain.Well ive converted it from the enclosed chain to an open o-ring chain.But im now looking to switch to a belt final drive and was wondering if anyone has done the same.I know supermax makes a kit but 1300.00 is a little much for 2 pulleys and a belt.
The early '84s were chain, the later '84s were belt. I personally know 2 people who went from belt back to chain (though the parts are long gone) so I see no reason you couldn't do it with OEM parts new or used. If you have the parts manual or access to one, I'll be glad to help cross reference some numbers.
 
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Old Mar 2, 2009 | 05:41 PM
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It's more than 2 pulleys and a belt. The primary and swingarm need to be changed. The swingarm from a newer dresser should work, maybe the rear caliper may have to be changed. But the primary changed alot those years as far as the starter goes. Sorry I couldnt be of more help.
 
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Old Mar 2, 2009 | 05:54 PM
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The 1300.00 kit i refered to is 2 pulleys and a belt.I realize there is alot of changes with starters primarys etc..Im a shop owner and a certified harley tech,i was just wondering if anyone has tried or done this before.But thanks for the input.
 
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Old Mar 2, 2009 | 05:57 PM
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Originally Posted by t150vej
The early '84s were chain, the later '84s were belt. I personally know 2 people who went from belt back to chain (though the parts are long gone) so I see no reason you couldn't do it with OEM parts new or used. If you have the parts manual or access to one, I'll be glad to help cross reference some numbers.
The problem with stock parts is most are obsolete.Ive been trying to locate a lot of them without much luck.
 
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Old Mar 2, 2009 | 06:01 PM
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Stick with the chain !
 
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Old Mar 2, 2009 | 06:57 PM
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I've got that enclosed chain, I take it you think it's an incredible feature they stuck us with too ?

I've never heard of the Supermax kit. I did look at it on their website. If all you need is what is in their kit for $1300 I would say that wasn't too bad. The other method requires new trans shaft, clutch hub and who knows what else I'm forgetting. I'd like to hear more about this swap. Might make me want to ditch this Twinkie I'm riding and put some taller gears into my '84 so it can return to Glory days. Good luck with your efforts.
 
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Old Mar 2, 2009 | 08:43 PM
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Originally Posted by sqdealgeorge
Stick with the chain !
The chain broke twice yesterday on I-95 while running 90Mph in heavy traffic.
The second time it about took my rear fender off.
XLO Diamond with approx 7000miles in very good shape.
 
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Old Mar 2, 2009 | 08:48 PM
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Originally Posted by notlost_nc
I've got that enclosed chain, I take it you think it's an incredible feature they stuck us with too ?

I've never heard of the Supermax kit. I did look at it on their website. If all you need is what is in their kit for $1300 I would say that wasn't too bad. The other method requires new trans shaft, clutch hub and who knows what else I'm forgetting. I'd like to hear more about this swap. Might make me want to ditch this Twinkie I'm riding and put some taller gears into my '84 so it can return to Glory days. Good luck with your efforts.

I spoke with Phil today,he is the guy behind the supermax kit.Really nice guy.Its just that 1300.00 is alot money right now and i have bunch of spare parts,im only lacking a belt,pulley,and inner primary.But as soon as i get the bike apart to see what other damage the broke chain has caused i will make a decision then.If i do continue with a conversion i will try to keep all posted.
 
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Old Mar 2, 2009 | 11:37 PM
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I went to the dealers unveiling of the XR1000 and the FXRT. The good thing about the FXRT was its enclosed chain. A chain that runs in a clean oil bath has the possibility of lasting as long as a belt drive. If replacement parts for the sprockets and seals is a big problem then you may not have a choice but to change to a good O ring chain. A belt, pulleys and hardware will be much more expensive. Just keep the enclosed parts just in case you want to go back. Fossil
 
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