2009 Ultra Classic w/31,500 miles.

I may have an expensive fix on the horizon.
Start the engine in neutral, howling/grinding noise from trans at idle.
Put it gear, noise stops.
Shift back to neutral, noise returns when I release the clutch.
Noise it present in all gears when bike is moving and is consistent with speed of bike and gear selected.

Just changed the Primary chain tensioner hoping that was it.

Possible transmission input shaft bearing or clutch disc noise.

Shifting smooth, runs smooth in all gears.

But that noise is getting louder.

 

Sounds like it's the inner primary bearing to me.

 

Yup he's right...its not that bad of a job. Not even that expensive if you do it yourself.

 

Gotta remove the compensator, and clutch to get to it right?

Besides a clutch removal tool, are there any other specialty tools needed?

 

While you're checking things, check the clutch hub bearing. I had a 2009 Ultra Classic that had the clutch hub bearing go bad @ 37,700 miles. Sorry I can't remember the specifics of when the noise would start or stop because it was back in 2010. To the best of my recollection, it sounds very similar to what you are experiencing. On mine the shop replaced the Clutch Assembly HD P/N 37813-06A. The primary chain tensioner was also fractured and replaced at the same time.

 

Talking with a buddy at work who said the same thing. Although he said the clutch hub bearing failure caused his bike to lose the clutch so he couldn't shift or come to a stop.
He spun the bearing race in the clutch hub so he had to replace it all.

He said what you guys are saying. Based on when the noise happens and the fact that it is shifting normally means a Inner Primary bearing.

 

Don't really need any special tools to do this job. 13/16 ths socket for the compensator and something to lock the primary chain up and it comes apart. Inner primary had to come off also, which requires some sockets. Should be able to do this in an afternoon taking your time. New primary bearing, gasket and new seals where needed. Make sure your trans shifter is tight while you have it apart.

 

Well I do remember that my bike shifted fine and I had no problems coming to a stop. I was on a little 800 mile road trip when it happened. I even stopped into 2 dealers who both had no idea what was causing the noise. Both dealers also did not have the time to repair the bike so I rode it home. That was an uncomfortable 400 mile ride.

 

Agree with hardheaded and Screaming beagle, the issue you describe is an inner primary bearing failure.

 

Awesome guys.
Thanks for the insights.

Been a mechanic for about 30 years but never on motorcycles. Cars, tractor-trailers, forklifts, buses and currently Firetrucks.
But no bikes.
Sounds like the clutch hub comes off without a puller or special clamp. Wasn't sure about the bearings though. Sometimes they require a puller.