Belt To Chain Conversion - Been A Long Time Coming! Softail Street Bob FXBB M8

[@RonsWorkshop]

Have you converted your belt to a chain? How do you like it? Or, are you considering a chain conversion kit? Let me know!

[@Ratridez]

I've converted my Harley to chain drive years ago , best thing I ever did .

[@RonsWorkshop]

@Ratridez I feel the Sam way!

[@scottluna4249]

Nice video. I’m considering to do a chain drive kit from Vulcan also. But i want to lower my rpm’s so thinking about the 25/49T configuration. Have a ‘19 SG with 129 big bore kit 550 gear cam. So i think i will be fine if i do this.

[@RonsWorkshop]

@scottluna4249 confirm your current tooth count to make sure…mine was different than the ratio quoted on the website. Let me know how it goes!

[@scottluna4249]

@@RonsWorkshopI already ordered it with the 25/49, hopefully everything goes as plan. I believe the stock configuration is 32/68 with the belt but supposedly the 24/51 it’s the same as stock. That’s why I went with the 25/49, there’s a website that you can manually enter the sprocket, tire diameter and other drivetrain info along with mph and give you an estimated rpm. At 90 mph I’m at about 3400 rpm. With the 25/49 I will be at 3100 rpm at 90 approximately according to the website calculator. If I messed up I can always change the rear sprocket 😂

[@Trampslikeusjb]

The detail here is amazing, so well done. Thanks!

[@RonsWorkshop]

Hey Jason - thanks so much for the kind words!

[@JasonMB99]

Best chain conversion video I’ve found so far. Definitely going to help me when I do my conversion. Thanks Ron! Subscribed!

[@RonsWorkshop]

Hey Jason - I’m so glad this was helpful, and thanks for the kind words! Let me know how it goes :)

[@isaachutchins2169]

I'm dropping in before i take on a fuel moto chain kit on my 18 FXBB. This is the best video by far I've seen breaking down a harley chain kit, and im stoked it's on my actual bike. Thanks for the awesome work!

[@RonsWorkshop]

Hey Isaac - I’m glad this was helpful, and thanks for the kind words!

[@dylanalley2578]

Fuel moto uses aluminum rear sprockets … find a steel one

[@isaachutchins2169]

I'm all good man, I love pbi. Been happy with what I've seen out of em, but can't go wrong with steel for sure👍

[@joaomauriciobasiledesouza6204]

Ron, you are definitely a PRO. Awesome content as always! Congrats bro!

[@RonsWorkshop]

Thanks so much! The chain is really great and I’m so happy with it :)

[@timblackburne77]

Sweet video Ron. Thanks for doing them, you will help out alot of people. Cheers mate!

[@RonsWorkshop]

Hey tim blackburne - thanks so much for the kind words! Cheers from the states :)

[@cjhmdm]

I completely underestimated how tight that primary sprocket nut is, lol. Thanks so much for this video, I've been referencing it nonstop for my build... but now I need to go get an impact driver, lol

[@RonsWorkshop]

I know - so much torque on that thing!

[@cjhmdm]

For sure… damn near lifted my bike off the stand trying to break it loose 😂

[@RonsWorkshop]

@cjhmdm yesh it took a full 10 seconds with the high torque impact wrench to get mine loose.

[@cjhmdm]

@@RonsWorkshop I'm going to time mine when I go out to the garage and get it done 🤣

[@cjhmdm]

@@RonsWorkshop 1 minute, 19 seconds with a kobalt “1200 ft/lbs of nut-busting torque” impact wrench, lol

[@BM-uj7rt]

This video is so well done. I'm going to do this myself.

[@RonsWorkshop]

Thanks for the kind words! Yeah it’s one of the best things I’ve done to the bike. Let me know how it goes!

[@rogerramjet69]

nice work mate... best video out there. ive been thinking about doing mine and this video has given me the edge. thanks champ

[@RonsWorkshop]

Thanks for the kind words mate! I really do like the chain and I’m so glad I made the switch.

[@luisreneventura]

Even tho I wouldn't do this mod because I don't want to deal with the extra maintenance of the chain setup it was very instructional to see how to do it 👍🏼. Can't wait to see the other ones soon.

[@RonsWorkshop]

Hey Luis René Ventura Cruz - thanks for the kind words! It was a fun project for sure. And I absolutely love the chain…it totally transformed the bike.

[@luisreneventura]

@@RonsWorkshop visually or performance wise?

[@RonsWorkshop]

Both - I love the look, but improvements to the ride are significant as well. It’s so much more responsive, and the steeper gearing makes the already good acceleration even better.

[@luisreneventura]

@@RonsWorkshop yeha but couldn't you do that same change of ratio with a belt too?

[@RonsWorkshop]

@@luisreneventura Yes, for sure, but the throttle responsiveness with the chain is also much better. It's a bit hard to describe, but I'd say it's smoother and more predictable.

[@JakobKaizen]

I think you just made my decision on a chain conversion definite! Your info, production and the whole attitude is 5/5 dude, earned yourself a new subscriber🏆 My -22 RG ST with the Star F35A and a couple of other mods is running 136/136, BUT, it’s jerky and gnarly under 3000 rpm. Doesn’t help that the bike is heavy and I’m almost 300 lbs..😅 So, I’m going crazy over the gear ratios! Just like you I’m looking for that snap and acceleration. Leaning towards 30T Baker comp sprocket to go with oem clinch but upgrade the springs, but have no clue what to do with the front and rear sprocket regarding gearing.. Any thoughts mate?

[@RonsWorkshop]

Hey Jakob - thanks for the encouragement! Regarding the ratios...that is soooo subjective. A good starting point could be to calculate your current ratio, and then pick where to go from there...10% steeper, 15%, etc. and then track down a chain kit that gives you the ratio you want. Let me know what you decide!

[@waygone6657]

I can see I'm a little late to the party, just wanted to say thumbs up 👍 on selecting the Vulcan kit. Ane, you can save yourself the gasket issues by converting to open primary 😛

[@rebel_ltz]

Wonderful video, Ron and it looks killer! I'm gonna do this if I'll have issues with my stock belt. But if I'm opening the primary, I'm probably upgrading a few components there as well. The stock compensator tends to fail and removing some slack from the drivetrain (chain vs belt) doesn't help it either.

[@RonsWorkshop]

Hey Tom - thanks for the kind words. If you end up opening the primary, let me know how it goes, and what you upgrade!

[@N6J6R6]

These chain vids are badass, good work. Is there a chain lube you recommend? lube the chain ever 500 to 700 miles?

[@RonsWorkshop]

Thank you for the kind words! I prefer a dry lube - no strong preference on the brand. The o-rings in the chain retain grease around the pins so that in itself does most of the work.

[@OrangeManStan]

Another great video Ron. Thats not an easy job. Any amateurs taking this on i think need to be vary capable in home mechanic's 👍

[@RonsWorkshop]

Thanks for the kind words! You’re correct - it’s rather involved, but it’s a very doable project. One step at a time!

[@welderup6669]

GR8 VIDEO THANKZZZ FOR SHARING!!!

[@trevornelmes9331]

Not sure if I left a comment, or accidentally deleted it. Just paid for one of these kits, after watching your videos. Now to wait for it to cross the sea to the UK.

[@RonsWorkshop]

Hey Trevor - that’s great! Let me know how it goes once you get it.

[@NorCal-refrigeration]

I did after the belt broke. Broken belt and the party is over. I went chain because you can replace a chain without removing the primary 🤘✨🤘

[@RonsWorkshop]

Definitely a nice benefit of having the chain!

[@jerielyork4399]

I said thank you for the education on it change conversion I am very interested in it and looking to find the right chain kit conversion to do thank you God bless

[@RonsWorkshop]

I’m so glad this was helpful!

[@xxdbriderklx110xx]

Is that just a sticker for laughs and giggles or is the bike actually a 114? I thought 2019 street bobs didn't come in a 114 and came with a 107? I am thinking about doing this soon with the same kit but I am not sure if that will have an impact on the torque specs. Great video by the way!

[@RonsWorkshop]

It’s Stage III 114, but was originally 107. Very happy with the results! Thank you for the kind words!

[@trevornelmes9331]

@9:25 you mention a tower gasket. My seal kit came from Cyco (part PKM8SOFTTAIL18) and included their part CY12052AV and that appears to be the tower gasket you refer to, their price on its own is $3.

[@RonsWorkshop]

Excellent! Thanks for sharing that info.

[@MrTheDays1]

You must be reading my mind

[@RonsWorkshop]

Hey MrTheDays1 - haha, let me know if you do it!

[@rogerramjet69]

hey mate.. did you replace any seals after removing primary sprocket on the main sharft? just waiting on a few more bits to do my conversion and want to make sure I have everything.

[@RonsWorkshop]

Hey mate - I don't know how I missed this comment. Sorry about that! No, I didn't replace any of the hard seals because my mileage was so low. However, it would have been wise for me to do that. The gasket kit I bought came all of the seals.

[@joaomauriciobasiledesouza6204]

Recently I saw one of your videos about the oil pressure gauge. Where did you get that mount? Have you done that yourself?

[@RonsWorkshop]

Hey João - it’s a combination of a very basic oil pressure gauge mount for an old school Harley with the addition of a stainless braided line. I’ve wanted to make my own kit but haven’t gotten around to it yet :)

[@pinecone76]

Awesome video but the weekly chain maintenance (clean / lube every 400 to 1000 miles or so) makes me hesitant to ever attempt such a conversion on my Softail. Love the virtually zero maintenance that comes with a belt!

[@RonsWorkshop]

Hey PineCone76 - That is definitely a benefit of a belt! And thanks for the kind words :)

[@The.ricosuav]

What did you use to clean the chain? Currently doing the same project!

[@RonsWorkshop]

Good ‘ol WD - but only for cleaning, not lube: m.kzbin.info/www/bejne/fn6ulJWipaibmaM

[@rogerramjet69]

hey mate... does your belt guard still fit on with the chain conversion... the cops are sticklers here for that :/

[@RonsWorkshop]

Yep! It still fits with plenty of clearance using the 55 tooth rear sprocket. Let me know if you do the conversion!

[@f.t.w1066]

Great video 👍👍👍🇦🇺

[@RonsWorkshop]

Thank you! Cheers from the states :)

[@michaelbuzo6382]

Is wheel balancing recommended when removing the belt drive to sprocket on the rear wheel?

[@RonsWorkshop]

That’s a great question! I didn’t have any issues but it certainly wouldn’t hurt!

[@rogerramjet69]

hey mate... do you have a model on your impact gun, so I can lookup the torque settings.

[@RonsWorkshop]

Hey mate - I used this Makita: amzn.to/3oIGoWH

[@The.ricosuav]

Hello! You and I have the same bike! What are the torque specs for the rear sprocket bolts (gold) ?

[@RonsWorkshop]

Hey Rico - according to the Harley service manual for the 2019 Softails, for the rear sprocket: first torque is 60 ft-lbs, and final torque is 77-83 ft-lbs.

[@The.ricosuav]

@@RonsWorkshop thanks so much I was able to get them all in the sprocket lock at 77ft lbs.

[@rogerramjet69]

how thick is the spacer that comes with it. Also did you use your oem spacer on the outside of it?

[@RonsWorkshop]

I didn’t measure the spacer so I’m not sure how thick it is. The one that comes with the kit is the only spacer needed. I used the High’s Hand Built sprocket lock so it has a baseplate that goes on the outside of the sprocket, but otherwise there’s just the one spacer on the inside.

[@rogerramjet69]

@@RonsWorkshop what made you choose the BMZR chain over the EK3D? I read a few horror stories about the EK chain coating flaking and that their warranty department are dreadful.

[@RonsWorkshop]

@@rogerramjet69 No strong reason - I wanted an upgraded / stronger chain but didn't feel I needed to go with the EK3D. I don't have prior experience with either chain. Let me know what you go with it if you do the conversion!

[@JCunningham21]

When I bought my kit it was part number 4721 for M8 softail. Now they have one just for the 18+ Fat Bob and Low Rider S part number 4855. They still have part number 4721 but now it says for the wide tire bikes. I asked about it but got no reply. I just asked again.

[@RonsWorkshop]

Thanks for sharing that info!

[@rogerramjet69]

hey mate,,, do you adjust chain tension with the rear wheel off the ground?

[@RonsWorkshop]

Hey mate - yes, off the ground so you can move the wheel as needed and make sure it’s aligned. I check it again once it’s on the ground to make sure it’s still good to go.

[@rogerramjet69]

@@RonsWorkshop thanks mate appreciated. Did the chain conversion over the weekend, bloody big job that's for sure. I used the DID chain and supersprox stealth rear with 24T front and 51T rear. I also F*&KED up and cut the chain 1 link short so I ended up using 2 master links. I was so bloody mad I tell you. I forgot to take in the cylinder part of the chain so after I cut it was just left with the empty ends. Definitely a catch for first timers :(

[@RonsWorkshop]

@rogerramjet5692 ah mate I feel your pain. I’ve made many mistakes like that! Good news is it’s easy to recover from! Let me know how you like the chain - I think it’s one of the best things I’ve done. I’m working on the video that gives my impressions of the belt vs. chain.

[@paulson9616]

I am planning to change to chain conversion on my 20 m8 low rider s. What do you recommend as far as tooth setting goes for front n rear sproket tooth size?

[@RonsWorkshop]

Hey paul son - the big question is what do you want? Better acceleration? More top end? Or about the same as stock? Once you decide on that, you can pick your sprocket tooth counts. Vulcan shows that 24x51 is equivalent to stock, but my stock ration was a little different. Maybe you can confirm your exact tooth counts to know where to go from there. And be sure to watch the part about gear ratios. It starts at this point: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fn6ulJWipaibmaM Let me know if that helps…

[@JCunningham21]

Can you still get the rear tire off with the tire all the way up when you size the chain?

[@RonsWorkshop]

That’s a great question! I did not try it, but my guess is the chain would need to stretch a bit before it could be removed after initial sizing. You could also size it such that you could remove it at the start, but you’d lose some adjustment range as it stretches.

[@JCunningham21]

ya i go through tires every 2 years so i dont want to be buying a $250 chain to change the tire. @@RonsWorkshop

[@RonsWorkshop]

@JCunningham21 makes sense!

[@JCunningham21]

Yes you can. to answer my own question.

[@The.ricosuav]

I’ve been trying to get the sprocket nut off even with a air gun and it will NOT move at all. Any suggestions? Heating it? I am sure that I’m turning it to loosen the nut in the correct direction.

[@RonsWorkshop]

Hey Rico - heat may help but take it easy because of the seals. The air gun isn’t making as much torque as one of the strong electric guns. I had to rent one to get mine off.

[@The.ricosuav]

@@RonsWorkshop which electric impact gun did you use? And thank you for the clarity and replying means alot

[@RonsWorkshop]

@The.ricosuav I think the one my local rental shop had was this one: amzn.to/3UuCXQW And I think this one is also a good option: amzn.to/4bn2Fg9

[@The.ricosuav]

@@RonsWorkshop Quick question, I’m running forward controls on the bike, what’s the best way or part to plug the mid shift shafter hole where the tower gasket goes? I also got a gloss black primary cover that has no hole but do I need to plug it from the inside as well where the tower gasket goes?

[@RonsWorkshop]

@The.ricosuav hmmm…I’m not sure of the best way to plug it. You’ll definitely need to plug the half of the primary case that has the hole. I wouldn’t trust anything like RTV. It’ll need to be more substantial than that. Maybe fill it with JB Weld or something like that? Just not sure. Let me know what you end up using!

[@akumaz78]

Can this be done to a moped/scooter too?

[@RonsWorkshop]

I’m not sure 🤷🏽‍♂️

[@bddfc1968]

Nice

[@RonsWorkshop]

Hey bddfc1968 - yeah, I absolutely love the chain! It has totally transformed the look AND the ride.

[@bddfc1968]

@Ron's Workshop I'm looking forward to doing this to mine also , I will be watching you're videos my friend 😎

[@RonsWorkshop]

Man that’s great! Let me know how it goes :)

[@MrTheDays1]

What size bolts for rear wheel spocket

[@RonsWorkshop]

Thread pitch or length? I believe the thread pitch is 7/16”-14. I have the OEM bolts if you eat me to check the length, but I didn’t compare them to the bolts on the kit. I think they’re pretty close though.