Primary chain tensioner concern
Primary chain tensioner concern
Extreme HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2012
Posts: 11,392
Likes: 184
From: Big ol Titties
I've been eyeing the Baker manual adjuster myself. Gets pretty pricey though when you factor in getting a outer primary cover (if you want to have a inspection cover). My indy has told me enough horror stories about some of the damage he's seen from the stock tensioners over tightening that it has me thinking about this.
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 5,577
Likes: 138
From: South of Dallas Area, Texas
If you are speaking of the primary tensioner, I tried the Harley self adjuster. It ran way too tight in my opinion and I removed it and went back to stock. I like that much better.
Road Master
Joined: Feb 2011
Posts: 916
Likes: 12
From: NoVA
This is another part that I wonder about. I have a '11 with 35,000 on it and have to replace the compensator. I once had a AMF Shovelhead that I put on 20,000 per year. Never had to replace a compensator. I wonder if that was because I always adjusted my primary chain through that little window. Maybe that auto-adjuster is not so damn good.
Tourer
Joined: Jul 2013
Posts: 426
Likes: 1
From: CT, USA
Both the primary and compensator adjusters are antiquated engine technology that have no business in motors as powerful as the 96 and 103 are. Too much motor for too old a technology, this is the reason of over-wear at low miles and premature failure.
Trending Topics
Road Master
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 892
Likes: 8
From: Central Florida
Use the "Search" feature on this site. There is a ton of information on this subject. I'm using a Hayden on my 07. So far very happy-easy install. Cost just over $100.
HD Forum Stories
The Best of Harley-Davidson for Lifelong Riders
7 Surprising Harley-Davidson Products that Are Not Motorcycles
Verdad Gallardo
8 Best Harley-Davidson Motorcycles Ever
Pouria Savadkouei
10 Worst Harley-Davidson Motorcycles Ever
Pouria Savadkouei
Killer Custom's Jail Break Is The Breakout That Refused to Blend In
Verdad Gallardo
Crazy Bunderbike Build Looks Amazing, But Is It Impossible to Ride?
Verdad Gallardo
Harley-Davidson Reveals Super Cool Cafe Racer Concept
Verdad Gallardo
Engraved Rebellion: Inside Bundnerbike's Glam Rock II
Verdad Gallardo
10 Motorcycles You Should Never Buy
Joe Kucinski
10 Things Harley-Davidson Needs to Fix in 2026
Verdad Gallardo
Extreme HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2012
Posts: 11,392
Likes: 184
From: Big ol Titties
Those are the only ones I have heard of any issues with. The self adjusters can tighten up the chain but have no way to back themselves off. You end up cruising around with the chain way to tight and it can cause all kinds of issues. That said there are tons of high milage bikes out there that have never had issues with the auto adjusters. Not sure if it's luck of he draw or if riding style has anything to do with them over tightening.