Chrome plate it, there is no cost for repair and you will end up with a stronger and definitely better looking swingarm.

www.chromethathog.com

 

I don't know if I would want to repair that one, but it would probably be a good idea to add a plate of metal above and below the axle holes on your new one before installing it. I checked mine and it's ok, but I might modify it the next time the rear wheel has to be removed for service. Thanks for the pic. You may want to report it to the NHTSA. Looks like something that may be in need of a recall.

 

It is common on the "02-back Touring bikes.

[IMG]local://upfiles/17633/F8FDCFBE066D49F99DD3B27D9E7D2E0F.jpg[/IMG]

 

That is not pretty....I'd definitely get a new swing arm. It's a pretty labor intensive job to replace it, but you can't ride the bike with it cracked (or you're living on borrowed time). Lot's of really ugly things are gonna happen when that baby breaks loose. Might as well replace the belt when ya get it all taken apart, because that too is a pretty labor intesive job when ya gotta do it.

 

It's common.

Take the Wheel off, inspect the swingarm and see if the metal deformed anwhere. If it is, beat it back straight. If it is just the crack, grind a v in it, weld it up. Plate the top and bottom with two 3/16" strips of low carbon steel and weld them up. Do the other side as well as preventative maintenance. Spray some Rustoleum on it and call it a day.

 

Given the thin metal and that quite a large area will end up being heated, I would not weld it.

Replace for peace of mind.

If you had four wheels it would not be that big of a deal if you welded a frame member.

 

[&:] Here is the final word from me on this one...good news / bad news story...

Good News: I took it to local Harley dealer and they called the company, sent picture of damage, and were able to get a free swingarm ($400) from HD.

Bad News: In order for me to get the free part, HD said it had to be installed by authorized dealer -- Labor cost (with new rear brake pads): $400.

Time to ride

 

WHOLLY CRAP ! That doesn't look too good. Good thing you found it man.