Primary chain tension
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5th Gear
Joined: Jul 2010
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Primary chain tension
Are there any indicators of when (or if) your primary chain tension needs adjustment. I have a 2002 FLHT and it is my first Harley. If it does need adjusted, do you have to buy a new gasket for the inspection cover or can you be careful and then reuse the old one? Also, will it cause a "squeaking" noise to come from the primary? Any help would be appreciated. One other question, are the pushrods and rocker boxes on these machines typically able to be heard during operation? I don't mind the sound (it's actually cool to listen to it work) but I want to be sure it is OK. Again thanks in advance for any help.
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 3,486
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From: Union,Ms
If you don't already have a service manual,get one,even if you have to borrow it.It will save you a ton of money.The gasket has to be replaced every time and the lifter noise is normal.
Grand HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 4,890
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From: MA
I agree with the service manual suggestion, but I disagree with replacing the gasket every time you pull the cover. I adjust my primary at the end of every riding season (about10K) before winter storage and reuse the gasket. 5 adjustments so far and same gasket with no leaks.
Banned
Joined: Jul 2009
Posts: 3,719
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I can feel when mine gets a little slack in it. It kind of bucks a little. Different than a fuel related 'buck'. Maybe a little longer than most will go before adjustment, but it suits me. I re-use gaskets all the time with no leaks occuring. Just gotta learn when they've had enuff...
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 28,559
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From: Vermont
You can use a rule to measure the tension. I have a nifty tool that works well that I bought on line from Jeff Liot's website before he stopped making them. There is a cold and hot measurement per the manual. Best thing to do is check it every time you change out the primary fluid, that way you can refill through the inspection cover and get it all done at once.
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5th Gear
Joined: Jul 2010
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Is the "squeaking" from the primary anything to be concerned with or just annoying and normal?
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Tourer
Joined: Jan 2008
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From: South Texas
I don't have any squeaking coming from my primary. Maybe some more info for the real harley mechanics? Try to describe when it starts, stops, or if it's constant. Try to tell them if it is coming from the front or rear if you can. Mechanic's stethoscopes are cheap and it may help you narrow it down. The more info you can provide, the better. There are lots of helpful people on this site.
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5th Gear
Joined: Jul 2010
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It is a constant sound 98% of the time. I sounds as if it is coming from the front inside of the primary cover. Doesn't seem to affect performance in any way. Actually heard a Road King go by at a stop light the other day that sounded as if it were doing the same thing.
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flip180
Primary/Transmission/Driveline/Clutch
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May 18, 2010 12:41 PM
