Hey guys, new here. I've got an 02 Sportster 1200XLC with a Stage 3 Screaming Eagle kit with 33k miles. Just a few days ago I noticed that when letting off the clutch while in first it didn't seem to be disengaging fully, and would almost do so in short spurts. I adjusted the clutch cable in hopes there was a small issue to no avail. I rode it to work yesterday and back and it continues to do the same thing, but I noticed a small squeak everytime I would engage the clutch. I rode it again today, I know...dumb, and it continued, but when I got to work not only was it squeaking, but when the clutch is disengaged it's making mild rattling sounds. I haven't pulled the derby cover yet to inspect it, but am fearing the worst. Have any of you had any issues like this? Your advice would be greatly appreciated as its my daily and now I have to take public transport to work FML. Thank you!
-HDJohnny!

 

My son in law had a similar issue. His ended up being a clutch spring retainer (I believe this is what it is called... it was the first plate on the clutch you see when you remove the derby cover and it was put on backwards). His was an older "1986" FXR, but it was doing close to what you describe. Funny thing is, it even said this side out or in on the plate, I don't recall the exact wording, but we reversed it, and the squeal / squeak / clutch issues were gone. I don't believe his made a rattling sound, as this was about 4 or 5 years ago, but it was squealing like a pig before we did the switch. Good luck!

 

try this

 

Sounds like you getting ready to experience a clutch failure. If you adjust it the cable and like in video above and nothing happens, time to look at it. I had my clutch replaced at 31k and it was getting ready to go . I have heard its a common problem with stock HD clutches.