Issue with my 69 flh
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 7,499
Likes: 3,717
From: Santa Klaus County, Cali
well my fears were correct. It's locked up rear wheel will not turn when in high gear. Tried to push it on the garage floor in all gears and the rear tire just drags. I tried spraying the crap out of it with pb blaster and tried marvel mystery oil with no look. Looks like I have a bigger winter project on my hands now.
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Novice
Joined: Aug 2017
Posts: 15
Likes: 0
From: New York
You haven't laid out any history on the bike so it is a bit of a crap shoot. Herz my thought. At this point you can't be sure if it is the motor that is locked up or the transmission that is suspect. I would pull the primary cover, remove the primary chain, and put the nut for the motor sprocket back on. Then with the plugs out and the right socket I would try to rotate the motor. It will either turn or it won't. If it does the problem is in the transmission; if it does not, then you have motor issues.
As for history, engine is original and has a big bore kit on it. Cases were welded back in 2009 and the welds appear to be good and look like they should hold up. Bike has not been run since 2010 as that's when it was parked at my uncles when my father passed away. Finally was able to get it to my place a few weeks ago and going through the bike now.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 15,705
Likes: 22,718
From: Farmington ,MS
I would mix ATF with acetone and pour as much as possible in the cylinders, and let it sit until you can break it loose...will make the top end much easier top take apart.
Cruiser
Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 188
Likes: 17
From: SE Pa.
If you plan on checking the motor by removing the outer primary cover and turning the compensating sprocket, or removing the primary chain, you'll be needing a "compensating sprocket shaft nut wrench" pt# 94557-55
Providing your motor is original.
Providing your motor is original.
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Novice
Joined: Aug 2017
Posts: 15
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From: New York
If the engine is in neutral do I need to take the chain off?
Road Captain
Joined: Jul 2009
Posts: 599
Likes: 2
From: Montana
The engine is never in neutral, the transmission is put in neutral.If the trans is locked up, the motor will not turn over. I had the same problem with a '68 Triumph. Problem was when it was stored, the exhaust valve was open and we had some really damp weather. The piston was at bottom dead center, and the cylinder was rusted from the rings to the top of the cylinder. Had to pull the head and jugs. Good news was a hone job and new rings and she was good to go.