I'm interested in converting the final drive on my '82 FLT to belt. Anyone have any info on where I need to start ? I'm not sure where to go to get info.

 

I did it years ago on my 79 FXEF. It was quite a production. It works great but I don't think it was worth the cost after all was said and done. Todays chains are vastly improved and no where near as messy as they use to be. I go with a good o-ring chain and call it a day. Just my.02 cents worth.

 

Unless you are absolutely in love with your bike, it's WAY too expensive to be worthwhile. You would be better off just updating the bike to one that has belt drive already. Yes, it's that expensive! Uncle Larry is right. The "O" ring chains are pretty good.

 

http://www.supermax.net/

http://www.karata.com/final.htm

 

I'm not all that familar with the FLT, but I looked into converting my '78 FXE to belt when the Sturgis model came out. The tranny case, mainshaft, maindrive gear, inner primary, starter, and swing arm were the major changes. Then there's the tranny pully and wheel pully, too.
Upgrade bikes. Then you will have a newer machine. And cheaper.

That said, I do believe it can be done but would be expensive and a lot of work entailing a lot of running around for little incidental parts. Not for the casual mechinic.

 

What has been said is pretty close to the truth. I tried to do it on my 1982 back in the 90's.

If you want to convert, it will take a lot. First the Transmission case itself. The Inner and outer Primary will need to be changed to the 1985 parts. The starter is the same with that year. You can still use the dry clutch with them. If you go too new, it adds to the parts you will need to change because of the wet clutch. (Clutch, Main Shaft in transmission)

Also you will need to change the rear wheel and all parts needed with it.

Be careful with the Karata belt drive kits (link in previous post). If you look, there is not one for the FLT. The 5 speed frame is for the 4 speed FXR models in the 5 speed frame.

 

Yep pretty much the story right there . I did a rear belt on my 72 the poor man's way . While it's a lot cheaper LOTS of modifications to everything from the tranny case , inner primary , starter and a bit of frame work for clearance and then you get to play with the swingarm and getting alignment all correct and happy . I've got the clutch out right now I'll snap some pictures and post a few just for kicks .

I do love that rear belt now .

Follow Uncle Larry on this one and get an high end o-ring chain like tsubaki , I used to get 25,000+ miles on stock shovels with them .