09 Ultra, my clutch lever seems to have gotten a bit of play in it. When you pull in the clutch handle it does not retract all the way back. There is about 1/2 inch or a bit more play in it. The clutch seems to still be working fine, but I never had play in it like that. After you pull it in and release it, you can push the handle back to where is should go. Have 20K miles on the bike, any ideas?

 

if only there was an adjuster on the cable to take up slack....


look under that rubber boot


cables stretch over time


you may want to ascertain that the clutch mechanism is properly adjusted, then do the cable - that is what I would do for a customer


Mike

 

Buy a service manual. Detailed instructions in it for setting your clutch.

If it is just "play" in the cable, you will find the adjuster zip tied to the front of the downtubes on the front of your frame. If your clutch needs adjustment, get the manual.

Have you ever lubed your clutch cable or checked the clutch? That is supposed to be done every 5,000 miles, as stated in your owner's manual.

 

Yep, simple adjustment. Check about half way down the cable for a rubber boot. Slide the boot out of the way, grab a couple open end wrenches, loosen the lock nut and then tighten the adjusted to take up the slack. You want to leave a little play in it. About 2-3mm or the thickness of a nickel.

As the previous responder has stated, you may want to check your clutch adjustment prior to this unless your sure its adjusted properly.

 

Thanks all.. I asked out of curiosity if it might mean my clutch could possibly be wore out. Yes I already have the service manual, yes I take my bike in for the 5K maintenance intervals, but now I am wondering if the shop does everything they say. I have been taking it into a local shop that services HDs, but it is not a HD dealer. I could follow the instructions to adjust the clutch and then the cable, but this is why I take it in, because I personally don't like to worry about it, I personally would rather pay somebody that knows what they are doing. Just me!!

 

Once you crack open the manual and do it yourself you will never have to worry again, because you WILL know what you are doing and will be sure it has been done right!

 

True! I almost wish there was somebody around here that could show me the first time just to be sure I am following the instructions right and not causing more issues... I would just be a bit more comfortable that way. But you are right... You pay somebody or some shop a few hundred dollars, you just take for granted that they are doing what they should. But I guess you just really never know for sure.

 

What poolboy said. If you want peace of mind, and to know more about your ride, do as much of your own work as you can. You will likely save a bunch of money too. Let us know your general area and see who is near that can help.

 

you could always add your location to your profile

Mike

 

Ya, I am starting to see that. I bought this damb service manual, I might as well use it... I will attempt the clutch adjustment and cable adjustment and hope I don't f it all up... Sick of the $95 oil changes also...