When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
A while back I posted a thread about a loud chain slapping noise when the throttle is adjusted quickly up or down like going over bumps etc...
Many of you suggested the compensator which I now believe is the culprit. I do not believe there is really anything wrong with mine and my Harley service manager said he hears bikes that make the noise and those that don't, but it does not mean there is something bad happening.
My question is - I have read on different forums that replacing the stock compensator can and does alleviate the slapping noise and most all replaced with either the SE sprocket/compensator or other brands.
Which do you recommend as a replacement? Is the SE a good replacement for a fairly stock bike or is there a better alternative?
Is this a do-it-yourself project? I watched some videos and it seems within the realm of something that does not look too difficult.
Twin cam "twinkie". You have an auto adjuster. They only get tighter. Never loosen up. Need to get the specs on yours. My 07 is 5/8 cold. Since 07 the comps have been problematic on some bikes. Ive gone through 5 of them. Time to take the primary cover off and take some measurements.
I went to a manual adjuster because one day it decided to get too tight. I also ordered a Baker comp. Tired of replacing my comp every other year.
If your new to Harley and your bike has 32K on it I am going to guess you bought it used. The previous owner could have swapped the primary chain adjuster for an aftermarket like a Hayden or Baker. The Baker is a manual adjusting one so it is possible to get some chain slap if it is out of adjustment.
The compensator going south is very possible also. The lack of lubrication getting to the proper areas makes them go south prematurely. I went with a solid sprocket on mine to do away with the compensator and it works for me, but is not for everyone. The Baker Compensator is new to the market so the jury is still out on how it does, but knowing Baker it is probably a good piece.
7 Surprising Harley-Davidson Products that Are Not Motorcycles
Slideshow: The bar-and-shield logo shows up on far more than motorcycles, some of the company's most unexpected products have nothing to do with riding.
Slideshow: From the troubled AMF years to modern misfires, these bikes earned reputations for reliability issues, questionable engineering, or disappointing performance.
Crazy Bunderbike Build Looks Amazing, But Is It Impossible to Ride?
Slideshow: The Swiss custom shop has taken a Harley Softail and stretched it into something so long and low that it looks closer to a rolling sculpture than a conventional motorcycle.
Engraved Rebellion: Inside Bundnerbike's Glam Rock II
Slideshow: A standard cruiser becomes an intricate metal canvas in the hands of a Swiss custom house known for pushing Harley-Davidson platforms far beyond their factory brief.
Slideshow: Harley-Davidson's challenges aren't abstract; they show up in dropping shipments, shrinking dealer traffic, and strategic decisions that aren't yet translating into growth.