The service manual spells it out exactly how to do it.

I cannot get the attachment of the service manual page to load. If anyone wants a copy, e-mail me at fastback111@msn.com and I'll send it to you.

I have been using the 45 degree twist method on my V-Rod for several years. Once I adjusted the SG belt to specs, the 45 degree twist method worked fine on the SG.

It's better to be a little tight then a little loose.....That theory also applies to "other" objects besides bikes.....

 

I'm not sure what manual you're looking at, but mine says on the ground with a person sitting on it. 5/16 to 3/8 deflection.

 

'09 Touring Service Manual...

Trans in Neutral
Motorcycle at ambient temperature
Bike upright with rear wheel elevated or on jiffy stand WITHOUT rider or luggage
Check at the loosest spot on the belt
For Street Glide 1/4-5/16"
Other models 3/8-7/16"

 

Well sorry! Mines an '01 so..............

 

My manual says the same thing as hdv-glide says, my belt had 7/8 amount of play with the HD tension tool. I adjusted the belt to manual specs. 3/8 right on the money but it feels to tight to me but I do not really know what it should fell like I try the 45 deg thing and if I use a lot of force I can get about 45 deg.

 

On my '03 RK and my '94 Dyna, 7/8" when cold turned out to be about right. The manual specs for those years ended up being too tight and made the belt whine and the rear pulley get too hot to touch after a while at highway speeds. The '03 came from the factory with about 7/8" slack in the belt when using the Harley tool to check it.

Good luck,

John

 

You really should check with the dealer.I too when new to the belts could not believe how tight they felt.Certainly do not want it too loose!

 

That 7/8 is after 10000 miles in the manual is says for an flhrs that is should be ¼ to 5/16 which is even tighter than the road king. I guest what I have to do is take it out for a ride and then check it. I am just worry about the belt breaking. the problem is if the belt breaks I have to replace it and it looks like a big job (cant afford the dealer’s fee and I do not trust them to work on my bike)

 

you'll blow out your tranny bearings before you blow the belt! I know from experience. My dealer adjusted it with out asking me just to be nice...you know the drill. it ended with them buying me a new trans