downshift is rough
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Joined: Apr 2006
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downshift is rough
My son has an 883 sporty, 2003 mdl and it shift up with no noise, however when downshifting it is really rough with a smacking sound. Just wondered if anyone else has ever had this problem and what might be causing it. Primary chain and fluid was checked about 2000 miles ago and ok. It is due for a change though. Thanks
Club Member
Joined: Feb 2007
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From: Boynton Beach, FloriDuh
RE: downshift is rough
I would check the clutch adjustment first, it may not be fully disengaging. If you're do for an oil change try a gear oil like Mobil 1 75w-90 Gear Oil instead of engine oil if that's what you are using.
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2006
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From: Gulf Coast of Mississippi
RE: downshift is rough
I don't know what a smacking sound sounds like to you... to me its a kiss...[:'(]
What rpms are you downshifting at???
Do you bring up the rpms on the motor to match the speed you're traveling...???
Its it a hard clunk and/or grinding noise with it...???
Charlie D.
What rpms are you downshifting at???
Do you bring up the rpms on the motor to match the speed you're traveling...???
Its it a hard clunk and/or grinding noise with it...???
Charlie D.
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RE: downshift is rough
Well fellas, found the primary chain loose as a goose and adjusted it back up. That took care of the problem. I couldn't find the chain specs on my CD for some reason, does anyone know the adjustment specs for the chain,1/16 or what? Thanks
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Joined: Sep 2005
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From: Ozark Country
RE: downshift is rough
ORIGINAL: Numbawon
Well fellas, found the primary chain loose as a goose and adjusted it back up. That took care of the problem. I couldn't find the chain specs on my CD for some reason, does anyone know the adjustment specs for the chain,1/16 or what? Thanks
Well fellas, found the primary chain loose as a goose and adjusted it back up. That took care of the problem. I couldn't find the chain specs on my CD for some reason, does anyone know the adjustment specs for the chain,1/16 or what? Thanks
You need to keep some slack in the chain.. Too tight is as bad (or worse) than being too loose.
I believe HD recommends 5/8" to 7/8" when cold, and 3/8" to 5/8" when hot.
I normally position the chain at it's tightest spot, and then set it to about 5/8" when cold.
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Cruiser
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RE: downshift is rough
Mine makes a loud "clunk" when going from N to 1st and also when downshifting. I was going to bring it up at the dealer when they do the 1000mi service next week. Is primary chain adj part of the 1000mi service or will they stick me for more $$?
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From: Ozark Country
RE: downshift is rough
Primary chain inspection and adjustment if necessary is part of the 1,000 mile inspection. (They should also do the same with the final belt drive at the same time).
But, I've never had a Harley that didn't 'clunk' to some extent, especially when going into 1st, or during down shifting.
It's normal, even if everything is adjusted perfectly.
As some have said in the past, the time to worry is when a Harley stops clunking. lol..
Just make sure that you aren't down shifting at too high of an RPM.
But, I've never had a Harley that didn't 'clunk' to some extent, especially when going into 1st, or during down shifting.
It's normal, even if everything is adjusted perfectly.
As some have said in the past, the time to worry is when a Harley stops clunking. lol..
Just make sure that you aren't down shifting at too high of an RPM.
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RE: downshift is rough
My 07' clunks shifting every gear. Dealer said it was normal when I drove it away. I like the loud clunk sound. Lets me know I got the shift done easily. Isn't causing a problem at all. If it shifted quiet, I would be reminded of my jap bike......not a good thing.