Trans Fluid Level Question

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Oct 21, 2012 | 06:39 PM

Scudda

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Stellar HDF Member

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From: PA

Trans Fluid Level Question

Hi Guy's!

What is the correct way to check the trans fluid? Is it ok to check on the kickstand like checking the oil or does it need to be level?

Also will it hurt anything if the trans is a little over full?

Thanks

Oct 21, 2012 | 06:51 PM

blackbear

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Joined: Oct 2010

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The bikes got to be straight to check the level and if you over filled it there will be more drag against the gears,but I can't see it hurting anything though it will just slow you down some.

Oct 21, 2012 | 07:26 PM

Doug S

Road Master

Joined: Apr 2009

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From: NJ

I check mine level and warm, same with the oil. Overfilling might cause it to come out the vent or I guess it could possibly foam but why would you run it overfull....?

Ds

Oct 21, 2012 | 08:27 PM

Then Came Bronson

Grand HDF Member

Joined: Oct 2009

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From: Hill Country, TX

Quote:

Originally Posted by Scudda

If you still have that '95 FXD, you check the tranny fluid with the bike level. On the newer Harleys, like my 2010 bagger, you check it on the jiffy stand.

It's never good to overfill anything. The extra tranny oil is probably going to be vented overboard. You can avoid this by actually measuring how much you put in. Those older 5 speed trannys took anywhere from 20-24 oz.

Oct 21, 2012 | 08:45 PM

Jim Kraft

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From: Middle of Kansas

I just put 20 oz. in and call it good. Sometimes to much can cause seals to leak.

Oct 21, 2012 | 09:18 PM

Uncle G.

Seasoned HDF Member

Joined: Jun 2010

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From: Upstate New York

I measure out 24 oz. for mine. That consistently places the level at the mid point of the dipstick when the bike is upright.

To be fair, it's very hard to check the level with the dipstick, as the slightest lean one way or the other will make a great difference on the indicated level on the stick due to the shape of the gearbox. I just measure out 24 oz. and call it close enough.

Oct 22, 2012 | 12:59 AM

Spanners39

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Joined: Dec 2010

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From: Coromandel Peninsula New Zealand

When I refill my tranny I check it warm and level, then, when I know it is right I check it again on the jiffy stand and use whatever level that shows on the stick as my future datum point so I can check it on the jiffy stand.....but then I am just too cool for school....and a lazy feckwit into the bargain ;-) ;-)