I see the Baker and SE compensators for 07 and newer... what about 99-06 TC models? I have a 95" 10-1/2 :1 motor and don't baby it.... noise coming from bottom end. Sounds like 2 open end wrenches banging together... thanks guys...

 

Noise at idle only? The compensator nut is loose. Mine ('00 95") has a 160,000 miles on it and no issues. Probably the same with yours. If there was an issue, I'd put the same super reliable early style in there that you're running now.

 

The earlier compensators are almost bullet-proof and don't give problems. If yours is shot replace it with a new stock one. Don't confuse TC96 problems with the earlier bikes!

 

I would be surprised if the compensator is the source of the noise. Easy enough to check though, open the primary and check the torque. The only issue with early compensators was related to the factory tolerances that could prevent the specified torque on the nut from applying adequate clamping pressure to keep the compensator tight and it would loosen over time. The MoCo eventually produced shims to address the issue but before the shims were issued, some of us solve the issue by trimming .030" or more from the compensator nut to prevent it from bottoming out against the sprocket spacer. The attachment illustrates.

If the noise only presents at idle, the Bellville springs may have weakened. That can be resolve by replacing the spring pack or adding a spring from another compensator if you can get your hands on one.

It is hard to diagnose a noise without hearing it but I am still doubtful that the compensator is the source of the noise, but, like I said, easy enough to check. Could be primary chain adjustor coming loose as well, so might be time to take a look in the primary.......

 

Early comps do fail but they are really pretty robust.. I did wear one out on a 2000 FXDX but it was a 116 that made decent power and about 55000 miles (mostly as a 116 but some 95 and 88)..

One thing to note is that the comp nut might be loose but you won't need to shim the nut unless something is missing. The timken bearing motors did not have the comp / rotor stack-up issues that the 2003 to 2006 motors did.