Installing new clutch cable on RKC
Thread Starter
|
6th Gear
Joined: Oct 2011
Posts: 14
Likes: 0
From: Wisconsin
Installing new clutch cable on RKC
I have a 2000 RKC and am putting 16" apes on. I've gotten to the point where I need to take out the old clutch cable and put the new one on. It looks like I'll need to take the exhaust off in order to get at the cable. Is this the only way to do it or is there an easier way?
Road Captain
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 697
Likes: 42
From: Magnolia, DE
Getting the exhaust off is easy, just spray the studs with penetrating oil like Kroil etc once a day for 3 days and go easy on the wrench and you will be fine. I have had the exhaust off of every bike I have ever owned and never had an issue following the above steps. FYI, WD40 is not a substitute for an good penetrating oil.
Advanced
Joined: Feb 2012
Posts: 53
Likes: 0
From: Canton, GA
I just did this one my 05 Road King 3 weeks ago when putting 14" apes on my bike. Yes you will have to remove the exhaust if you have the factory exhaust system on it. You have to be able to get the clutch cover off and the exhaust is blocking 2 of the screws you need to take out. The mufflers will have to be removed as well on both sides. You also have to remove the right side footboards.
Get the manual and it will be much easier. The manual breaks it down step by step.
Get the manual and it will be much easier. The manual breaks it down step by step.
Intermediate
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 43
Likes: 0
I just did this one my 05 Road King 3 weeks ago when putting 14" apes on my bike. Yes you will have to remove the exhaust if you have the factory exhaust system on it. You have to be able to get the clutch cover off and the exhaust is blocking 2 of the screws you need to take out. The mufflers will have to be removed as well on both sides. You also have to remove the right side footboards.
Get the manual and it will be much easier. The manual breaks it down step by step.
Get the manual and it will be much easier. The manual breaks it down step by step.
Advanced
Joined: Feb 2012
Posts: 53
Likes: 0
From: Canton, GA
+1 on removing exhaust and floorboards. I've got 16s on my 2005 RKC and it will end up being easier with everything outta your way. The clutch cable isn't difficult to replace but don't get in a hurry. You'll need a good set of retaining ring pliers and make sure you take a good look at the inside of the clutch housing before disassembly even if you have a manual. I've learned from experience!
Get a friend to help you also, it will save you some frustration. I learned the hard way trying to do it myself. Once I got a friend to help it was done in a breeze.
Last edited by WSRyda05; Mar 2, 2012 at 08:30 AM.
Advanced
Joined: Feb 2012
Posts: 53
Likes: 0
From: Canton, GA
One other thing, go to you local HD dealer and buy a new gasket for the tranny cover since your gonna have to open the casing. You don't want any leaks after you install everything.
Trending Topics
Tourer
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 283
Likes: 11
From: So Cal
Just did this few weeks ago, just my experience here but I did NOT remove my exhaust. I did remove the mufflers and loosened the exhaust bolts about half way, there is the one rear allen that was a little tricky on the clutch cover, but to newer your question - yes you can do it w/o removing exhaust.
HD Forum Stories
The Best of Harley-Davidson for Lifelong Riders
7 Surprising Harley-Davidson Products that Are Not Motorcycles
Verdad Gallardo
8 Best Harley-Davidson Motorcycles Ever
Pouria Savadkouei
10 Worst Harley-Davidson Motorcycles Ever
Pouria Savadkouei
Killer Custom's Jail Break Is The Breakout That Refused to Blend In
Verdad Gallardo
Crazy Bunderbike Build Looks Amazing, But Is It Impossible to Ride?
Verdad Gallardo
Harley-Davidson Reveals Super Cool Cafe Racer Concept
Verdad Gallardo
Engraved Rebellion: Inside Bundnerbike's Glam Rock II
Verdad Gallardo
10 Motorcycles You Should Never Buy
Joe Kucinski
10 Things Harley-Davidson Needs to Fix in 2026
Verdad Gallardo
Tourer
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 283
Likes: 11
From: So Cal
I also switched out gasket and drained/replaced tranny fluid
Advanced
Joined: Feb 2012
Posts: 53
Likes: 0
From: Canton, GA
Just did this few weeks ago, just my experience here but I did NOT remove my exhaust. I did remove the mufflers and loosened the exhaust bolts about half way, there is the one rear allen that was a little tricky on the clutch cover, but to newer your question - yes you can do it w/o removing exhaust.