going up the highway a couple of days ago and heard this odd noise coming from the bike like something was spinning or rattling.how can you tell if its the compensator. 20,000 on the bike and have read that's when it may start.I also noticed that it is not starting as easy any ideas

 

I'd take the primary cover off and inspect everything. See if there are any metal pieces, shavings, check primary chain tension, teeth on both sprockets, and the gear on the starter. Also make sure the starter gear is disengaged.
I have never had a bad compensator so I can't tell you what it would sounds like.

 

A lot of times it will give an odd clunk or clang when starting... or when rolling off / rolling on the throttle.

What part of the world are you located?

 

northern California

 

It sounds like the compensator. My '09 started kicking back when starting (especially on hot starts!) and some of the issues that you mentioned. I replaced the compensator with the SE comp and all is well with the bike. Ron

 

When ya hear a definite hammering noise from the front part of the primary, it will be the compensator coming apart.

 

changed mine on my 2010 SG to the SE . Its a lot louder but should be fine for the next 20,000 miles .

 

Do yourself a favor and look at the Baker kit. If you don't know how to install it, ask around for a decent Indy shop. I will NOT pay HD more of money to fix an engineering design flaw that should have been a recall.
The clutch kinda chatters on takeoff, and the starter makes a loud chunking sound when it engages and disengages. Sometimes it makes a similar sound when you turn it off, too.
If it shifts rough and the only noise you hear is a rattling, maybe your primary chain needs to be tightened.
But maybe it has the self-adjusting gadget on the primary. You never said what year of bike you have.

 

Baker only way to go - replace the chain tensioner with a Baker at the same time...not cheap but worth it.

What year bike - when you drain the fluid measure it and see how much comes out - on the service at the dealer they only add a Qt and some touring bike years called for 42-44 Oz.