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Quick summary:
I lowered the oil level in the primary, and now finding neutral is easy.
Longer version:
The manual and web show different versions of how high to run the oil in the primary. Here’s two examples
So on the latest oil change I went with the lowest oil level, maybe a bit lower. It is a pain to measure since you cannot see this, you have to play with zip ties and the like as a dipstick.
There’s a chain splashing oil in there, so there shouldn’t be any problems if I’m actually a little lower than correct.
Finally, neutral can be found just as easily as a Honda! Yay!
Just that little bit of excess oil was enough to make the clutch plates drag. Now, the clutch disengages with much less drag.
Seems like the primary is quieter too.
In older owners manuals, that one picture is quite confusing.
I made a little dip stick of sorts to check mine. A piece of white insulated number 10 copper wire bent as a L.
I careful cut it so it's down at the bottom edge of the clutch diaphragm spring.
That way with bike level, I can spin it and know it's correct.
Mine only takes 26 oz to get there. It takes 24 in transmission.
I can only guess the bean counters nicked a sight glass.
I agree, a sight glass or dipstick would be a whole heck of a lot easier. It wouldn’t be too bad with the derby cover if the clutch basket lined up, but it’s down low and just barely clears. I thought about drilling the case and fabricating a dipstick, but never did it.
It was asked what my bike is, it’s an 04 Road King. But my observation was much more generic and applicable to a whole lot more bikes than just mine.
great info thanks vm. When I did my 1k service I found conflicting info on how much for the primary. Mine may be slightly overfull, going to check it. it's such a pita to see down in there for sure.
