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Noise coming from primary Buzzing/whirring

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Old May 4, 2026 | 12:00 PM
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Default Noise coming from primary Buzzing/whirring

Greetings,

2006 Softail Deluxe,
I recently replaced both my inner and outer primary, and I am now getting a buzzing/whirring noise from the primary area. The noise does not seem to change with clutch engagement or acceleration. When I shut the engine off, it almost sounds like a squeal, as if something is tight while the engine comes to a stop.

I opened the inspection cover and confirmed the noise is definitely coming from the primary. I then removed the primary cover and did not see anything obviously loose, rubbing, or wearing abnormally. I checked the primary chain adjustment, and it is just over 5/8" upward deflection.

I took the bike for a short ride, about 5 miles. Everything felt smooth and handled normally. Engine noise and wind made it harder to hear while riding, but the noise did not seem to change or go away. When I got back to the garage, it seemed to quiet down slightly, but it was still present.

I have read through several forums and understand that bearings may be a possibility, but I am looking for constructive suggestions on what else to check before assuming the worst.

Has anyone run into a similar buzzing/whirring or shutdown squeal after replacing the inner and outer primary? Any practical checks or troubleshooting steps would be appreciated.


 

Last edited by Hossup; May 4, 2026 at 12:02 PM.
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Old May 5, 2026 | 11:42 PM
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Installed the tensioner shoe backwards?
 
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Old May 5, 2026 | 11:58 PM
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i bet the chain is too tight. the whirring sound usually comes from the bearing on the the transmission shaft when the chain is too tight, or if the bearing is old and needs to be replaced.
 
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Old May 27, 2026 | 03:05 AM
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Did you change any bearings or seals while in there? Could be inner primary bearing/race. Or if you replaced the primary bearing seal, did you cover up the oil feed hole with the circlip? Just spit-balling here, cause just removing and installing the inner and outer primary covers shouldn't induce a "new" noise that wasn't there before.
 

Last edited by Colvinb; May 27, 2026 at 03:05 AM.
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Old May 27, 2026 | 03:16 AM
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If I tension the primary just a little too tight it makes possibly a similar noise when I shut off and coast.
 
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Old Yesterday | 02:49 PM
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Originally Posted by Max Headflow
Installed the tensioner shoe backwards?
Nope I double checked it and replaced it with a Baker.
 
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Old Yesterday | 02:51 PM
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Originally Posted by Colvinb
Did you change any bearings or seals while in there? Could be inner primary bearing/race. Or if you replaced the primary bearing seal, did you cover up the oil feed hole with the circlip? Just spit-balling here, cause just removing and installing the inner and outer primary covers shouldn't induce a "new" noise that wasn't there before.
I replaced the bearing with a Baker one-piece and all the seals.
 
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Old Yesterday | 02:53 PM
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Originally Posted by Andy from Sandy
If I tension the primary just a little too tight it makes possibly a similar noise when I shut off and coast.
I adjusted it right at 5/8 play. I also took the tension off the belt. I will loosen up the chain and let you know on the chain tension.
 

Last edited by Hossup; Yesterday at 02:54 PM. Reason: missed a sentence
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Old Today | 02:09 PM
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So after completely removing the entire primary and all components and reinstalling I believe the cause was the starter pinion was too tight and wasn't retracting and was getting stuck on the flywheel.
 
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