I have a 2009 sportster XL1200c and just recently started hearing a loud clanking/rattle that sounds like it's coming from the primary. I was out riding and when I came to a stop, I put the bike in neutral. When I shift from neutral to first, after the initial clunk, there is a very loud and constant clanking coming from primary. No clanking noise when in neutral. My primary chain was loose so I readjusted it along with the clutch adjustment screw and cable and I am still getting the rattle/clanking when I put it in first. Bike has around 20,000 miles. I plan on tearing back into the primary and possibly replacing the entire clutch but would like some feedback on whether or not this would be a good place to start.

 

20,000 is roughly where the likelihood of Spring Plate failure rears its ugly head .

 

Thanks for the idea. I'm going to pull the clutch pack apart tonight and see if thats the problem. I hope it's not too bad in there. This noise just happened abruptly. No warning at all.

 

Good luck . Have a look at the chain tensioner shoe while you're in there . By the way , I've had my Primary Cover off twice on my bike and I haven't used a fresh gasket yet . No trace of an oil leak at all . The gasket remained stuck to the crankcase only and I didn't use any sealant .

 

Pulled the clutch plates out and sure enough, it was the spring plate. You were right. Messed up the basket too. So I get to buy a whole new clutch assembly. Might go Barnett or Rivera Primo.

 

go with the barnett i made the mistake of going with the se since i had never had one that mistake will not be made again.

 

I'm more than happy with my Energy One Extra Plate Clutch Kit . There was some initial squealing but it's fine now .

 

did you soak the plates for 24 hrs?

 

Yes , I would have done more out of habit than necessity .