Compensator Lifespan
Thread Starter
|
Cruiser
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 150
Likes: 13
From: Fl
Compensator Lifespan
Ive always wondered what percentage of bikes that are higher mileage (50,000+) and have not had issues with the compensator. I know that some don't have issues and some guys go through 3 in 10-20K miles. There must be something that is a common denominator in the latter group that has not yet been identified. Crappy metal, poor design, and lack of lubrication would apply to all, yet 100% of bikes don't run through them like a case of oil. Just wondering....
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2013
Posts: 10,637
Likes: 1,246
From: Lake, Ms
2010 Limited with some stuff!!
Road Master
Joined: Sep 2011
Posts: 867
Likes: 224
From: Pa
i only have 22K on my 11 sg and replaced my comp,primary chain adjuster and transmission bearing. the chain adjuster ratched up to tight and took out trans bearing and the comp was showing signs of wear. im running a stg2 103 with all SE parts.
Trending Topics
Club Member
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 784
Likes: 2
From: Ohio
I had an 07 Road King with 50,000 miles on it when it needed a new compensator and main transmission bearing. I traded it in on a new Limited instead of paying for the repairs (est $1700 with 50k service). Much happier with the Limited 
Question, what does the compensator do? I'm not that mechanical. I can change the oil and replace voltage regulator, etc. but I stay out of the engine and tranny.
Question, what does the compensator do? I'm not that mechanical. I can change the oil and replace voltage regulator, etc. but I stay out of the engine and tranny.
HD Forum Stories
The Best of Harley-Davidson for Lifelong Riders
7 Surprising Harley-Davidson Products that Are Not Motorcycles
Verdad Gallardo
8 Best Harley-Davidson Motorcycles Ever
Pouria Savadkouei
10 Worst Harley-Davidson Motorcycles Ever
Pouria Savadkouei
Killer Custom's Jail Break Is The Breakout That Refused to Blend In
Verdad Gallardo
Crazy Bunderbike Build Looks Amazing, But Is It Impossible to Ride?
Verdad Gallardo
Harley-Davidson Reveals Super Cool Cafe Racer Concept
Verdad Gallardo
Engraved Rebellion: Inside Bundnerbike's Glam Rock II
Verdad Gallardo
10 Motorcycles You Should Never Buy
Joe Kucinski
10 Things Harley-Davidson Needs to Fix in 2026
Verdad Gallardo
Road Master
Joined: Sep 2011
Posts: 1,033
Likes: 41
From: Mount Airy, North Carolina
I wondered the same thing. Forums are always full of the people that have all the problems that get posted for the public to see. But what about the thousands of touring bikes that never experience premature comp failure. I do agree that it is a poorly designed part for the long run, but there are lots of variables that will wear the comp out faster than normal. I often wonder if many of the premature failures have a lot to do with personal riding styles. The comp is ultimately wear item that eventually needs maintenence. It's a poorly lubricated item and it's metal on metal design wears out.
Last edited by liquidr1; Dec 17, 2014 at 07:32 PM.
Road Master
Joined: Sep 2011
Posts: 1,033
Likes: 41
From: Mount Airy, North Carolina
I don't see why harley won't change the design 9f the comp to a 4 spoke gear and 4 cam ramps. This would give more surface area for the comp to spread working forces out to reduce wear. Or ditch the comp for a solid gear set and design a new clutch pack with a spring dampening system much like the clutch in a car
Last edited by liquidr1; Dec 17, 2014 at 07:40 PM.