Hi all,
I recently bought an 08 Softail deluxe (and I love it). Only problem is that I've been having issues with the compensator and starter clutch. The starter clutch will make a horrible grinding noise when the bike is started. It usually will happen when the bikes hot but it occasionally happens when it's cold. The compensator will bang on startup and shutdown, and it makes a horrible growling noise that's louder than the bikes exhaust when I cruise at 2500-3200 RPM. The place I bought the bike from put a new Screamin Eagle compensator in it, and it's always knocked and banged for me. (And yes, I know they've changed it, I pulled the primary cover and the SE plastic oil deflectors were in there.) My question is, how does the compensator cause the starter clutch to grind like this? Does the engine run away on the compression or something and cause the starter clutch to kick back? The bike has a brand new Yuasa battery and new spark plugs.

Thanks for reading

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Grinding during a hot start is often caused by the starter clutch going bad... While it could be a starter, it is common for the starter clutch to go bad, and the starter to still be in good shape. I would remove the starter and check it out.....

The 2008 Harleys were the second full model year with an "upgraded" OEM compensator. Unfortunately, they were problematic for many years... When the comps go bad, they put stress on the starter clutch and can also cause that to go bad... Sounds like the prior owner replaced the comp, but balked at replacing the starter clutch.

The banging on start-up/shut down could mean there was an issue with the comp install... At least check the comp bolt torque when the primary is off to remove the starter. Also inspect the comp closely for abnormal wear/damage...

Unless you have a receipt for the install from a good shop, don't assume you have the newest compensator. One thing I've learned from reading these HD forums is that there are many owners who will do ridiculous band-aide shortcuts & fixes rather than just fixing something right the first time...

A new starter clutch should stop the grinding, but if the banging continues, deal with the comp before you damage another starter clutch.

Good luck with your repair...