automatic primary chain adjuster
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Cruiser
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 103
Likes: 1
From: Central Michigan
automatic primary chain adjuster
I have a 05 Road King and I am going to install an automatic primary chain adjuster. I haven't decided on which one yet. My choices are the Harley Davidson, Hayden M-6 or Hot Bikes hydraulic primary chain adjuster. Who has used any of these and what were the benefits other than not having to adjust the primary chain? Is there any modifications to brackets, primary cover or anything else that sometimes manufacturers kinda forget to tell you when your buying. Each one seems to be pretty straight forward on their installation instuctions. The cost of each one is close, right around $100.00. I would appreciate all opinions.Thanks
RE: automatic primary chain adjuster
Hi I have used the hydrolic tensioner shown in the link below.
http://www.jpcycles.com/productgroup...E-39ACA29E892A
I installed it on an 04 Nightrain and it was easy to fit, well made and worked a treat. Reduced noise and clunks considerably. It comes with easy to follow instructions and didn't overtighten the chain. I haven't used the other types but if I fitted another one it would be this unit again.
WB
http://www.jpcycles.com/productgroup...E-39ACA29E892A
I installed it on an 04 Nightrain and it was easy to fit, well made and worked a treat. Reduced noise and clunks considerably. It comes with easy to follow instructions and didn't overtighten the chain. I haven't used the other types but if I fitted another one it would be this unit again.
WB
Road Master
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 900
Likes: 1
From: Cincinnati, Ohio
RE: automatic primary chain adjuster
I had a M-6 on my '04 RK. No problems after 30,000 miles. My '08 Ultra has the standard Harley auto adjuster. It seems to work fine, although I have heard stories of it making the primary chain too tight.
RE: automatic primary chain adjuster
I installed the HB-125 about 20,000 miles ago. Works GREAT no problems!
http://www.sohotbikes.com/
http://www.sohotbikes.com/instructions.pdf
http://www.sohotbikes.com/
http://www.sohotbikes.com/instructions.pdf
Elite HDF Member
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 3,968
Likes: 34
From: Lockport Township, IL
RE: automatic primary chain adjuster
I've heard good things about the HB - 125, but not used it.
I put the M6 on my Dyna 20,000 miles ago and it has worked flawlessly. It was easy to install.
HI've heard bad things about the HD tensioner. apparently it uses a ratcheting mechanism rather than a spring tensioner. I've heard that it is possible for the HD one to set the primary chain too tight. Again, no personal exsperience with the HD unit.
I put the M6 on my Dyna 20,000 miles ago and it has worked flawlessly. It was easy to install.
HI've heard bad things about the HD tensioner. apparently it uses a ratcheting mechanism rather than a spring tensioner. I've heard that it is possible for the HD one to set the primary chain too tight. Again, no personal exsperience with the HD unit.
Elite HDF Member
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 3,968
Likes: 34
From: Lockport Township, IL
RE: automatic primary chain adjuster
With the stock tensioner, the adjustment is a compromise. When you adjust it you have to make the adjustment with the chain in it's tightest position by rotating the rear wheel with the trans in gear. This leaves the chain lose in some places and snug in others as it runs. With the M6, the spring in the tensioner keeps the tension constant as you ride. No lose spots. Probably not a big deal, but when I put the M6 on, I did notice a slight improvement in shift quality, and less noise from the primary (after the new shoe wore in).
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Extreme HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 10,033
Likes: 29
RE: automatic primary chain adjuster
ORIGINAL: nb472
Why a automatic tensioner? Just check it at every primary change. In over 20,000 miles mine has never needed adjusted.
Why a automatic tensioner? Just check it at every primary change. In over 20,000 miles mine has never needed adjusted.
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Stellar HDF Member
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 2,558
Likes: 280
From: Russellville, Arkansas
RE: automatic primary chain adjuster
ORIGINAL: xxxflhrci
Exactly. It is nothing more than an unneccessary luxury. In 69k miles, I have had to adjust my chain only one time.
ORIGINAL: nb472
Why a automatic tensioner? Just check it at every primary change. In over 20,000 miles mine has never needed adjusted.
Why a automatic tensioner? Just check it at every primary change. In over 20,000 miles mine has never needed adjusted.
Elite HDF Member
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 3,673
Likes: 606
From:
RE: automatic primary chain adjuster
ORIGINAL: EVOrider
+ 1.....Why bother with it. They rarely need adjusting anyways...
ORIGINAL: xxxflhrci
Exactly. It is nothing more than an unneccessary luxury. In 69k miles, I have had to adjust my chain only one time.
ORIGINAL: nb472
Why a automatic tensioner? Just check it at every primary change. In over 20,000 miles mine has never needed adjusted.
Why a automatic tensioner? Just check it at every primary change. In over 20,000 miles mine has never needed adjusted.