this week(Thursday)I'm installing a Hayden primary chain tensioner. I need a new primary cover gasket. should I use a Harley brand or aftermarket gasket? where is a good place to get one? I would reuse the one on there now but the bike has 23,000 on it and its never been off the bike yet..............

 

Unless you just want piece of mind, I wouldn't change that gasket. I lost my tyranny at about 36k miles. Indy put a new one on. I took it home a week later installed the Harden (I determined the chain tensioner caused the ipb / tyranny problem). Took it back off to check the harden for wear 10k miles after, reused the gasket, and just this weekend was back in there installing a SE clutch spring and checking the clutch basket, reused the gasket again. Shouldn't be anything wrong with the gasket if you take it apart correctly and inspect it good before re installing it. Mines been off 3 times now and no leaks. Just clean the surfaces and follow torques sequence and specs and have a round at the bar with the $30 you saved.

 

i asked this question a while ago, got the same response, and it worked out fine. i did buy one before i did the project (just in case) and got it from dennis kirk online. good price, but not sure how it performs because i didn't use it

 

I've read several posts about re-using the gasket, if it's the new improved one. If it's just the "o" ring I'd replace it. I didn't replace the "o" ring on my 2000 Heritage and it leaked. As far as which one to buy, I'd spend a dollar or two more and buy the Harley gasket. It's made specifically for the bike and you know it's going to fit and not leak. You paid $20K+ for a Harley, what's another dollar or two for the correct gasket. Now that being said, I don't hesitate to buy non-Harley aftermarket accessories.

 

good practice to have handy common gaskets,seals, fluids and lubes.

the "paper type" evo gasket is easily resusable ( aftermarket)- the modern plastic over steel gasket may not be reused as easily.

so if it does seep, you drain the fluid and do over- no big deal

the primary case is not under pressure

mike

 

Thanks Fellas, all great reply's. F-IT I'm gonna use reuse the gasket............ saves me a trip but it would be wise to have an extra on hand just in case.............. thanks again..........

 

I have had mine off 4 times and reused it each time. Just clean all surfaces and re install. If it leaks the next time, I will use a touch of case glue (very thin for sealing machined motor cases) and reuse it again. It may just be me but there is no sense in replacing that type of gasket.

 

I've reused mine half dozen times. The newer ones have a thin metal core for rigidity and can be reused often.