I have a 2003 sportster 883. I have been having problems with shifting. When cold it shifts perfect, but after a few miles and it gets warmed up, it will start shifting in between gears, and feels as if I'm in neutral. I have tried shifting every way possible so I know it is not my error. I adjusted my clutch probably 60 times, I put new fluid in it, tightened up my primary chain, adjusted on my linkage, and still not getting any better. Does anyone have any ideas? Please help!
Also, the timing was off causing shifting problems before, and I had that fixed a few months ago and everything was perfect till now.
Thanks Jason

 

Sounds like worn gear dogs. Is it more noticeable on acceleration?

 

It is in predictable when it will happen. When the bike isn't warmed up yet, it shifts perfect. Thanks for the input! I am about to tear it apart.

 

I would check the clip and pins in the shift drum. There is a problem where the pins would work themselves out of the shift drum breaking the clip that holds the shift detent plate in place. The fix is simple, pull out the pin and use #263 thread locker on it then tap it back in with a brass punch. Then check the shift linkage adjustment according the service manual and reinstall the clutch hub.

 

Before you tear it apart, try to establish what the actual problem is! This may be one of those occasions when a visit to a local indy will prove useful, for an independent and expert opinion.

 

Did you ever find the solution to your problem?

 

The star looking thing to the right was loose not letting it fully engage in gear

 

Where exactly is that?

 

Behind the clutch basket. Its not very difficult. But 1 good thing to know is that the nut for either the clutch basket or stator is reverse thread. I forget which one now. I put block of wood between the chain and sprocket to keep it locked down instead of spinning the motor. Use lock tite. (Made that mistake once lol). Clock the star right and put that c clap back on it. Then CLICK THROUGH ALL THE GEARS AND MAKE SURE ITS CLOCKED RIGHT BEFORE PUTTING IT TOGETHER. Made that mistake once too lol

 

This is a weird thread.