Getting prepped for my road trip next week. Heading from Colorado to Texas and back over 6-7 days

I was looking at my owners manual and it says to adjust the primary chain every 10,000... along with other stuff I'll get to later.

Cracked it open this morning. Had to remove the floorboard and that bracket that held the floorboard on. I was a getting a small leak from the primary gasket so this is a good thing to do for me for piece of mind before the trip.

Do this looks too loose? I haven't done anything to it yet. Also there were a couple of metal shavings on the primary drain plug... where it's magnetized. Should I be worried. Anything look weird?

Thanks.

 

1990 Glide here! Jack the rear wheel off the ground, if it isn't, take the spark plugs out, engage top gear then gently turn the engine over. You're looking for the tight part of the chain (they all have one). Check and adjust there. If you happen to make adjustments at its slack spot the chain will be too tight at other parts.

 

This my seem like a silly question but how do you find the tightest part of the chain?

Simply keep checking the tension as you turn the rear wheel?

 

thanks grbrown I'll do that... glad I asked first

 

Yes! I should also have suggested disconnecting the battery, for safety's sake, while messing around in there. Once you have the hang of it you can watch the chain as you gently turn the rear wheel, so it only takes around half a dozen or so 'tests' to complete the process.

 

Yup I disconnected the battery.
I got the job done. Test rode it and no leaks or problems so good to go. Next on the list is brake pad replacement front and rear, transmission oil change, and brake bleed. I should've got new tires too but short on cash Oh well.

 

I NEVER leave for a trip with tires that I think I'll have to replace after I get back. They wear fast out on the road and are more prone to punctures when the tread gets thin. If you don't think you have the money now, just wait 'til someone bends you over replacing tires on the road. Be smart.

 

Don't forget to add the cost of the tow truck to get your bike to the shop.

 

Instead of bleeding your brakes, rebuild all of your calipers and add in new brake fluid. Your brakes are very important, and if you can't afford it now, hold off until you can.