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The "updated" compensators on the '06 Dynas and '07+ all other models, were problematic. They introduced an OEM comp with the Rushmore bikes that is much less problematic than its predecessors....... The better comp is also available in a retro fit kit for '07+ Twin Cams.
Prior to the '06/'07 compensator "upgrade" the comps were mostly trouble free. The only issue with the early Twin Cam comps was the comp nut could get loose.
In May 2005 a Service Bulletin came out about a change in comp nut torque procedures for all 88" Twin Cams, SB M-1170. It basically changed the torque procedure from a straight torque value (150-165 ft lbs), to torquing the bolt to 75 ft lbs, then an additional 45° to 50° (50° maximum).
Additionally, in 2003 when HD changed from the tapered timken to the roller bearing on the sprocket side of the crank, there was an issue with some bikes and their comp nut stack-up pressure. Basically the comp nut would bottom out, even with proper torque, and not provide enough clamping force.
Harley covered it in a Tech Tip (TT122 in Oct 2003). They suggested to add a shim to provide the space to allow the comp nut to achieve full clamp force without bottoming out. Here is the tech tip:
Some smart techs decided that rather than add a shim, that wasn't shown in any service manual that could lead to confusion on future comp repairs, they would trim the comp nut by .030". By cutting the comp nut, they achieved the needed spacing like adding a shim under the head of the comp nut, but it would be a permanent fix, without adding a shim that's not in the service manuals.
This is a document I saved, from a tech site I also read, about the comp nut issue and trimming the comp nut:
Last edited by hattitude; Feb 17, 2025 at 08:37 AM.
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Compensator issues
