I want to replace the clutch cable on a 2008 FXSTB with a +4 cable so I can add taller risers. Is it a simple swap - and is it difficult to adjust the cable once replaced. Thanks

 

Loosen clutch cable at the adjuster in the front of the bike under the protective boot. Then remove clip on clutch perch pin remove pin and clutch eyelet from the perch. Then depending on what exhaust you have you might need to loosen them or remove them. Then remove the side cover on the transmission which the cable is screwed into. Then undo the end of the clutch from with in the cover.
There are three small metal ***** in side that you want to use a little grease to hold them in place once reinstalling cable. Then route new cable the same way the old one was routed.
Remove primary cover and loosen the jam nut while holding the center rod still with an allen head tool. Counter clockwise the main shaft a little bit. Then turn back in until you feel a slight resistance. Then turn allen center bolt back half a turn and tighten jam nut. And then adjust your clutch cable up front under the boot on cable. Leave at least a nickle gap between the cable end and the perch.

Kinda of crude explanations but easy to do.
I give it a three beer in difficulty.

 

Follow the service manual.. I think the big thing is that when you screw the center adjuster in, you run it in until it stops then add 1/2 turn then as you back it off when it comes loose do the 1/2 to 1 turn.. This helps to ensure the arm in the right position. Use grease to hold the ball in place during assembly... You need a good sized snap ring plier.

 

2 tips:

1.) get a tranny end cover gasket and tranny lube ( HD Primary+) before you start

2.) crack the bolts on the tranny end cover..slightly

roll your tires up on a 2x4, and lean the bike on the jiffy stand- MAKE SURE it is stable.

you can then proceed, with the angle you will loose only about a cup of tranny lube...have a tin ready to catch that.

bonus tip- be careful not to crossthread the cable into the cover- LOOK at the angle of the cable that is already in there.
my 09 cover and my new cable had crap threads, I chased them with a tap/die to make sure I had smoothness

Mike

mike

 

Also don't run the cable in too tight.. You can snap the threaded part of the end of the cable. IIRC,Stock HD cables come with new O rings for the part that goes into the case but some aftermarket ones don't.