Can Metal in the Primary Contaminate the Transmission?

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Jan 18, 2013 | 09:28 PM

dbinbc

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From: Squamish, BC, Canada

Can Metal in the Primary Contaminate the Transmission?

I'm on my 3rd starter clutch ('09 Electra Glide, stage 1, everything else stock, 62,000 kilometres). Still get crashing and grinding sometimes when starting. Metal particles in primary fluid. I assume the ring gear needs replacing, as well as the compensator. Dealer told me that the metal particles can get past 'the seal' and into the transmission where they will destroy the bearings. Is that even possible?, I don't trust the dealer and think they just want to do an unnecessary tranny repair. Tranny seems just fine to me. Anyone know for sure?

Jan 18, 2013 | 09:35 PM

soft 02

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From: TOAK western branch

Well its posible for fluid to cross over but highly un likely. HD starter clutches suck. Get yourself an AllBalls one and it will last. Especially once that comp gets changed out. Been there, done that.

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Jan 18, 2013 | 09:36 PM

soft 02

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From: TOAK western branch

Oh and find someone else to work on your bike or get a manual and some tools!

Jan 18, 2013 | 09:41 PM

Speed

Road Captain

Joined: Mar 2006

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From: Philly Burbs

Soft rubber generally doesn't get along well with sharp metal.
It's absolutely possible that your primary could contaminate your tranny especially after the seals been beaten up by metal shavings.

Jan 18, 2013 | 09:42 PM

soft 02

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From: TOAK western branch

Very un likely! The size of the material that would get by the imput and mainshaft should not mess the tranny up.

Last edited by soft 02; Jan 18, 2013 at 09:48 PM.

Jan 18, 2013 | 09:48 PM

ackman1968

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Joined: Aug 2006

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From: Kennewick, WA

I wouldn't say it's impossible but so close to it I would doubt it has ever happened. There is a lot of space between the primary and the transmission, so much space that that's where they put the drive belt.