DOC HARLEY: PRIMARY CHAIN ADJUSTER UPDATES

[@Peter-976]

Excellent tip about the flashlight and screwdriver because everyone gets a little throttle happy once in a while.

[@Jake-cz1kb]

That dont work if you have the hydraulic clutch, no room to get the screwdriver in through the derby cover.

[@beatnuts323]

How would I slide the screwdriver kinda confused

[@timothyupleger7007]

Thanks for the info on this auto primary chain adjuster. I've used the screwdriver trick many times. Although I agree snapping the throttle will tighten the primary chain with this adjuster, I also found out that pulling a long mountain grade will also cause a tight chain. One of the best things I ever did to my 2007 FLHTCU was to install a Braker Drivetrain compensator and the manual Attitude primary chain adjuster. It eliminates the false over-tightening once and for all, along with smoothing out the dreaded primary chain snatch at startup.

[@gohome4614]

yep...did the baker install on '12 ultra as well during the bump up to a 110 w/cam and inner bearing work...to include a SE compensator....the new comp is way too noisy...clack clack clack, now going to install a man o war comp...anyway, baker manual chain tensionser is thumbs up!

[@CactusJack252]

That is one of the things I really like about my sportster 1200. The chain is a manual adjustment only. I have over 24k on my bike and I have only had to adjust my primary chain once.

[@levialston518]

I'm getting chain noise like the chain is loose maybe the adjuster isn't working

[@paulbouverette503]

I threw my stock 2010 Street Glide auto tensioner in the garbage where it belongs. My chain was way too tight and the primary was wining big time (bike only has 3,700 miles. I installed a hydraulic SO Hot Bikes HB125-07 Primary Chain Tensioner for Big Twins and wow what a difference. No more wining and the bike shifts and drives amazing now.

[@jamessanchez9446]

On my 2008 FXDC the automatic adjuster was over tightening my primary chain so much that the splines on my clutch hub broke off. I switch it out to a manual adjuster and have not had that problem since.

[@dougfresh1341]

Thanks for the video! Your time and effort is appreciated. Owned Evo, Twin Cam, both old and new. Tried different chain adjusters. Despite the downside of the Harley one, it's as good as anything. Just maintain it if you ride it. Buy a factory manual and get the right tools...and watch Doc and others with the help here.

[@gdubbsmotolife9713]

This is the only part on my 06 Dyna that I consistently worry about. Going to the Southern Oregon Hot Bikes unit next time I crack open the primary. They are local to me and I've heard great things.

[@daviddunn5264]

Thanks doc ... history, mechanics, part numbers, you hit on all of it. Much appreciated

[@Jasonracer]

Thanks Doc! I had a 2004 Fatboy as my first Harley and I learnt a lot on that bike as far as maintaining a Harley and I would regularly check my primary chain tension, when doing oil changes ect. But I sold that bike a few months back and I bought myself a much lower kms Fatboy this time a 2009 model. When I did my first oil change and service on the new bike I noticed there was no inspection plate on the primary side like my 04. Now I know why! Thanks again Doc, and keep the videos coming. I have learnt so much and gained so much more confidence from watching your videos. Jason. Queensland Australia 🇦🇺

[@truckrsteve3198]

Thanks for the video. I appreciate you for taking the time to make these videos for us. I'm working on my 2012 Heritage and this is definitely helpful.

[@aaronbrown5252]

Excellent video and thorough explanation on everything, including why the automatic tensioners can get too tight. Thank you!

[@danchristopher7957]

Thanks Doc... you always break it down... so even us carpenters can understand.

[@The_Official_Baxendale]

Thanks for the detailed overview, especially the comparison between A & B tensioner units 👍🏻

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

You're welcome, thanks for watching….Doc

[@chadb5009]

Didnt really cross my mind but i love learning all i can from one of the best HD techs out there.

[@ChuckChrome]

Thanks, this is great information for the few of us with stock bikes. So much chatter about how the automatic adjuster causes problems and this video adds much needed context to the conversation.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thanks for tuning in Chuck👍…..Doc

[@patrickfreeman205]

One of the best Harley service channels out there.

[@thejerseyj9422]

Been thinking I should check my primary chain on my '04 Fat Boy and this shows up. Talk about timing !

[@ryanthomas9869]

you say they changed in 06, was it late 06? I have an 06 ultra, it still has the inspection cover and the manual gives you instructions on adjusting. Haven't taken it apart to check, but its in the plans. Need to pull primary to change drive belt(53k miles on her), shifter shaft seal, and shifter arm. May have to look into the retro fit upgrade.

[@santorsa]

This is the best explanation I have seen !!! 10 PLUS !!!!

[@JeffinTD]

Great video. The internet seems to magnify problems. From some channels you’d think the stock auto tensioner trashes everyone’s transmission bearings in 20,000 miles.

[@williamolson3704]

No, "the internet" does NOT magnify the problem, on the contrary. The internet simply brings that problem to light.

[@CabinGuy]

I've been thinking the same thing, sounds like you need to rebuild your bike every week or it will explode. I find doing routine maintenance and not riding like an idiot will avoid a lot of the problems people complain about.

[@jeffreyengle2762]

2019 Road King….. main shaft bearings on the trans toasted and trans had to be completely rebuilt due to that stock adjuster. Pulled the stock adjuster and installed a new baker attitude adjuster….problem solved.

[@seavee2000]

Great video-not sure why my 06 FLHRCI has the earlier manual adjuster fitted, a friday afternoon bike perhaps. Judging by some other problems I've had,probably!

[@robdries7612]

Thank you so much for this video. This helped me understand my primary so much better. And put my mind at ease about worrying if it needed adjustment or not.

[@GJM866]

Great information! I used aftermarket hydraulic chain tensioners on both of my Evo primary chains and was totally happy with the results. Did my research, then purchased them from Southern Oregon Hot Bikes part #HB-125.

[@PitbullSoco]

Can you provide any insight into the newest version? The 39929-06C. I notice the ramp that was metal on the A and B version is now polymer like the shoe on version C. Is this strictly a cost cutting measure per usual from Harley or do you think the teeth being plastic will shear if the belt becomes overly tight by the ratcheting? Thank you

[@heybruh3274]

So Doc mentions the Achilles heel being the fact that the design doesn't do well when "your motor makes more horsepower than the factory design". YET, this same design has been used in several interations of motors each with different horsepower. So either it can or it can't handle the horsepower whether it's a Stage 2 103 or a 107, or a 114.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thanks for sharing your black and white view….Doc

[@thomas32059]

Hi i recently had to change the Teflon tensioning foot for the third time. while checking i discovered that at 5/8's cold on the tight spot it is approximately 9/16 difference from tight to loose. i have 1 1/8 on the loose spot.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

It is time to disassemble and examine all parts. 1 1/8” is too loose. You did not mention year, model or mileage. The worst scenario is your flywheels have scissored. Put a dial indicator on the sprocket shaft. Then check clutch and primary bearings and Transmission main shaft…..Doc

[@timbarnett3898]

I couldn't find water pump on my 03' fxdx, but I did replace the primary chain adjuster with 06' Auto-adjuster an now every once in a while it slammed gears on startup. I've asked an told it's new auto adjuster slamming, Go back to manual adjustment! What do you think about this auto adjuster an starting slamming?

[@Wrenchhead55]

Doc a guy called Hayden came out with one in 1980s uses double coils works fabulous I have 88 lowrider with one for 75 grand and good as day one

[@IrvingtonArms]

My stock 96 broke the tranny main shaft with this auto chain tightener in my first 20K. When I had to have the transmission repaired a second time I took it out and put in a manual adjuster. This is not a hot rod, just a commuter.

[@Hrafn81]

The B was the third automatic tensioner if I understand correctly? The A was the second, and is the one installed in my 2009. From what I hear, the B tensioner should solve most problems. Still not sure I feel reassured since Doc here mentioned the aggressive throttle getting a to tight chain. Oh, and the chain TIGHTENS when the bike gets warm. Which means I have a hard time starting my 2009 again after filling gas... (Also seems plausible this tensioner of mine might be why it sounds like the compensator is on it's last legs. Haven't opened it up to check yet, will when I get a new tensioner. )

[@love2breathe737]

Hi Doc. Does the same hold true for the 2019 FLHC-107...I have herd a lot of night mares about the chain adjusters on the cam side and the primary side...

[@timbarnett3898]

I'm having starter banging clunking noise from auto adjuster too tight! I'm going back to manual, investigating what brand best?

[@roberttaylor4608]

I am having to replace my third inter primary bearing at 70000 miles, in your opinion could the auto adjust be my problem, getting chain to tight?

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

There a so many reasons that pointing to the chain adjuster is too easy. Worst scenario the crank is out pulling and loosening several times a minute. The other end the Main shaft/ main bearing is going bad. Of coarse you have said nothing about your riding style or 150hp trying to find its way out…..Doc

[@danconlan64]

I see @4:18 you got Mechanics finger complete with oily bandage LOVE IT !

[@robertsmall6076]

Have an 06 softail has the manual chain tension easy to check 🤙🇺🇸

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Old school Rules....Doc

[@isaiahpierce260]

My 08 road king primary chain was so tight, it tore up my starter. Had the starter rebuilt, and took out the junk oem tensioner and put in a hayden. Now my bike runs quieter, and goes in gear without a loud clunk, and its easier to find nuetral. Was a cinch to do.

[@SuperdogRW713]

I have the same motorcycle and also switched to a Haden M6 but I have a feeeling the chain is too tight. Had the pirmary cover off and the shoe is wearing out quick. Bought a new shoe and when I replace it I'm gonna remove the smaller inner spring and see/hear if that helps.

[@williamolson3704]

@@SuperdogRW713 Why do you "feel" the chain is too tight? If the chain was adjusted properly with your Hayden, the ONLY issue you may have is becoming loose after MANY miles. Manual adjusting tensioners will NOT make your chain tighter with use, only the auto tensioner will do that.

[@SuperdogRW713]

@@williamolson3704 My mechanic was in there a couple of weeks ago and he said the chain is fine, so I'll stop worrying about it. There are no adjustments with the Hayden except with the shims and no shims needed. Won't do an automatic being solid primary cover. Thanks.

[@williamolson3704]

@@SuperdogRW713 Symptoms of a loose primary chain would be; (1) slack in your driveline, like the worn gears in a differential. A loose drive belt/chain in your secondary may be the culprit also. (2) worse case scenario, your chain is so loose that it is hitting the inside of your primary case. A loose primary chain is attributed mostly (IMO) to chain wear and possible wear of relative components. I believe it's recommended to check for loose primary chain about every 10,000 miles. But in most cases, probably not an issues.

[@SuperdogRW713]

@@williamolson3704 Lots of slop in the drivetrain and my guy is gonna replace the H-D compensator for something better like a "Man 'O War"

[@peterbalint7257]

Doc, what's your opinion about the hydraulic tensioners?

[@richpurslow3283]

Love all these videos, so many useful things to see.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Glad you like them…..Doc

[@garymartin1147]

There is a newer version of this tensioner now, 39929-06C. Could you check this one out and tell us the difference? Appreciate the great videos, you're the BEST!

[@haroldsimpson7260]

Do you ever come to the UK, I want you to service my road king. Top Man

[@jobeta22]

Another wonderful and very informative video. Thanks to both Doc Harkey and to Low Country Harley. Keep them coming. Oh, can you make a video about the oil transfer. I have seen the Harley solution and the aftermarket fix. I want to see which fix I will do on my bike.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Hi Jose, hope this video helps- kzbin.info/www/bejne/h6DPmY19pauIgrOW

[@RickDelmonico]

When did the b version of the tensioner come out?

[@robbycyr2099]

So this is why I can't find information on adjusting the primary chain on my '14 fxdf 103" Thanks!

[@duanesifuentes4129]

Great explanation, is it the same on a Street bob 114? I noticed yours is a chain, and mine is a belt.

[@bikersoncall]

Gold, now I can at least check my primary slack or lack of...thanks.

[@richardphillips1041]

Hi Doc, great video as always..I have a 2022 114 Street Bob and have a whining noise from primary. I have been 'giving it some gas' since new and have 4,600 miles on it. I cant get or even see the chain through the derby so I am going to take Primary cover off and reset adjuster. If it is too tight do I need to set chain tension manually before I ride or will the adjuster ratchet up straight away? I dont want it slapping about until it has become correct...hope your well and thanks for all your great videos.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Manually adjust it to the proper deflection….Doc

[@richardphillips1041]

@@LowCountryHarleyDavidson thanks Doc..

[@brucesantacory1390]

Mike, some you tube content makers are blaming the Automatic primary adjusters on the pinion shaft run out and the crank scissoring, i have a Dyna with the TC103 and just a stage 1 with screaming eagle parts, much like my 06 yellow FXDC i had when we worked together. I'm in my mid 60's now and racing days long since gone, but i will play from time to time, should i be concerned with the auto tensioner causing a bigger problem with the crank and pinion shaft side ?

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

The Auto-tensioner has its week points. When throttle abused. It can put additional stress on Compensator, clutch bearings, transmission bearings. I have not diagnosed a pinion shaft issue to a tensioner over tight. But there are many engine builder's like Baxter who can tell you more. Not addressing a loose or broken Compensator has ruined more flywheels...Doc

[@midnightmc3096]

Yes!

[@RTOutdoors]

I love hearing that a young man bought that Road King. 👍

[@cadecvd]

Hey doc.. I’m Farely new rider got my 2008 ultra back 1 1/2 years ago and have a question.. when I go to start my bike people have said it grinds as I start it and I should have it looked at.. had a mechanic come out at Harley and listened to it.. he heard what my friends were talking about and said he had an ultra that did this and never figured out the problem.. it starts fine but he did say it may be the chain tensioner may be loose reason why I’m listening to this video and want to know your opinion on it.. when I first got my bike the guy I bought it from had a stripped ring gear.. I replaced it and then that one stripped I caught it quickly and put on a new one back on again and rebuild starter thinking it was the starter and has been fine but what would make the starting part grind as it starts.. not sure if you have a way for me to send you a sample video.. but I’m at a loss.. thanks!

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

You have not supplied much info about your bike. Mileage, modifications,services, age of battery and more. A part that is overlooked until it makes noise is the motor compensator. When this wears it lags behind the starter dragging the motor along. The difference between these two not working together makes a grinding noise. Without having your bike it is one of the things to check….Doc

[@donwaltman4276]

Great video Doc, I have that same screwdriver, hundred different uses

[@jordantserghanos2604]

Great video, I have been looking at a manual tensioner like the SE manual and others. I see lots of compliments about the SE manual primary chain tensioner AND others. To the point of people removing them shortly after install. Why are the manual tensioners more noisy and what if anything can help quiet them down? I know it's also a subjective thing but there are too many online posts about manuals being very loud. Looking forward to your thoughts Doc. Keep up the great videos!

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

When owners are use to the whine(sound) of the auto-tensioner and switch to the manual, most fail to find the "tight" link when adjusting the slack. So what started as a comfortable measurment for expansion in the primary is now way to much. even with my auto-tensioner I have started using the New HD gear oil for primarys and this has improved the sound...Doc

[@jordantserghanos2604]

@@LowCountryHarleyDavidson when you say "way too much, are you indicating that they wrongly adjust a loose spot and therefore the primary chain is over tight in some areas and thus wines and makes excessive noise?

[@danpoczynek]

thank you for the info, my 2011 street glide has 55k and I am planning another trip to Sturgis from Portland, Oregon I am guessing 3000 miles total or so and I will be taking my bike to the local dealer to do a service on it.

[@stuartbuckley8720]

I have heard lots of complaints about the auto tensioner problem and many recommend aftermarket brands. I as of yet haven't had a problem. I am not looking forward to researching which one to use. I guess the mileage when it goes down will be a factor. I change the big 3 every 3000 miles. I also hear about issues with the compensator too :^( ~ this is going to get expensive fast!

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Just a suggestion, quit reading and more riding....Doc

[@williamolson3704]

@@LowCountryHarleyDavidson Oh, GREAT recommendation! Bury your head in the sand? GOOD ONE! Nothing to see here........

[@srhintz]

Yes! Thank you Doc. Never heard any recommend checking the slack through the derby cover. Going to do that soon. Is the old building still a deli? Always liked that place.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Yes, the old building is still a deli. Lots of great memories in that place. Thanks ~ Doc

[@bullast2046]

I think instead of buying a manual adjuster to replace these, a lighter spring in that wedge might help.. these things make the slack “banjo tight,” as Kevin would say

[@baura96]

I just converted over to an automatic chain tensioner. I do like to hot rod and have a heavy hand. Should I switch back over to a manual?

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Check the tension after a few rides. If it is always too tight...Yes

[@jameswalton8927]

Doc, Last weekend I rode my bike (street glide SP 16) It was about 105 degrees I think. Anyway my ride was fine until I got to my destination, I got back on the bike too move it and the clutch would not engage good, I finally got it moved. But what would cause this? After it cooled off it was fine, I also rode it a few days ago and the clutch feel fine.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

There is an adjustment at the clutch. 1/4-3/4 turn out. BUT for police bikes during a competition we have to turn it out more for the extra heat. Heat can take up the slack at the 1/4-3/4 adjustment and disengage the clutch….Doc

[@jeffreywhitlatch1409]

The primary on my 2013 Fatboy Lo seems to be loud inside of there. I think I need to check it.

[@chuckfast5270]

If is goes away with clutch pulled in it is likely your inner primary bearing (& maybe the race as well)

[@billmago7991]

nice to see a shovel being worked on.....40 yrs to upgrade , why change a good idea👍

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

My thoughts exactly….Doc

[@raymondpontremoli4500]

Doc, I found the electrical problem, I will write on that blog what the story is. You're gonna be astounded to hear what it is. Now my issue on Primary Chain Tensioners. My bike is an 2003 so it had the standard chain tensioner. well, adjusting the Primary Chain every 10,000 miles isn't something I wanted to do so, when I completely redid the primary at 60,000 miles, I spent the $125 for the updated latest model of Harleys Automatic Chain Tensioner. Now I read about this thing over tightening the chain and causing excessive force on the crankshaft, bearings and transmission bearings. So, I went from a manual adjust that wasn't causing any harm to a part that now causes harm and I got to pay $125 for it. Does Harley do anything the correct way from the beginning.??? I've had nothing but problems with this bike over 20 years....$19,000 for the purchase and $20,000 in additional parts and service on it. So, do I have to check this damn automatic tensioner every 10,000 miles and if so, off it comes and I'll just go back to a manual adjust one. At least I know its not going to over tension the chain and cause more damage and more money spent on parts.....This was my first Harley and its my last....Goldwing...!!!!!

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thank you for sharing. I don’t appreciate the rant but it’s your story. The new auto tensioner, has it been over tightening your chain or are all the Forums using there crystal balls and telling you your primary chain is to tight? I enjoy when people post facts and personal experiences then what they have read or heard. I am happy you work on your own bike. Is your bike completely stock? I have customers with your bike that are completely stock and have not spent what you say you spent. I am sure someone will be totally happy purchasing your Harley-Davidson when you buy a Gold wing…..Doc

[@raymondpontremoli4500]

@@LowCountryHarleyDavidson Doc, that was not a rant, it was my professional opinion as a Mechanical Engineer with 40 years of experience. However, I will conceded the fact that I do not know if it is over tensioning my chain. I have not checked it yet but, I plan to very soon. What I posted is what I read, and I do agree there is allot of disinformation out there but, once you see article after article published about this topic you have to certainly consider the validity of the comments. I consider both sides or any topic and I never take it personal either way. Thanks for your help.....

[@heybruh3274]

And for those of you taking your bike to Low Country - be forewarned of this attitude. Immediately assumed it was a rant and got offended. WOW

[@midnightmc3096]

@@LowCountryHarleyDavidson Look who was ranting now.

[@midnightmc3096]

@@raymondpontremoli4500 Not only was yours not a rant, but an accurate observation which has proven to (the cause) have come home to roost all over the fanboys out there.

[@cjmueller5455]

Like Chad, below, I love learning and seeing these parts. Now I can have an intelligent conversation with a tech if I need to. Thank you!

[@Patrick_B687-3]

This is so topical for me right now. I was just wondering about these the other day!! I was looking at the online catalog for SE options and this was there. So, for my stock but stage one 04 Softail...Hope you can answer: 1. Is there much threat of the ratchet up issue on mine with the auto-tensioner? I’m middle of the road or less on aggressive throttle. Again, Stage-One, TC88B which is otherwise bone stock. 2. In two years, with only 11,000 miles still on the bike, I need PC Chain tightening every service. Is this typical? Thanks so much for your videos, I really enjoy and learn from them every time.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Check your primary chain for a complete month, if it's always too tight consider the manual adjuster.

[@Bruno-my9uf]

How about installing the s.eagle upgraded version . hello . !!!!

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

It is a choice. You have to decide on spending the money on cover gasket and oil since HD does not offer a cover with a access cover to adjust…..Doc

[@outlaw6849]

I Love your channel Doc, I have picked up so many Tips and Tricks, Your the Man! I would like to hear what you think about Hydraulic Tensioners? I’ve had the Stage V Tire Shredder Kit installed and I Love playing with all that extra power! I will check with long screwdriver!

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Hydraulic Tensioners are a great idea but the units need oil pressure to work properly.

[@outlaw6849]

Low Country Harley-Davidson I thought it just sat in oil, like an oil bath, what would you recommend? Thanks

[@gloryland59]

Glad to see harley has an automatic adjuster for pre 2006 bikes.

[@killercowboy7032]

hey Doc would this also cause hard shifting through gears and a loud clunk going from neutral to first gear ? i have a 2010 electra glide 96ci with 20500 miles

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Yes it is possible....Doc

[@BarbaritoAdolfo777]

my 103 had a rattling noise and whine noise from the primary side,after inspection the chain shows 1 inch play,auto adjuster was loose to the point it rattles on the teeth, final play set to 5/8 on tight spot, but the whine noise stills there,is not a loud whine but you can hear it when you get close to the bike,it gets a bit louder when engine revs! what can be causing this whine?

[@vanislandsteve]

Like the screwdriver trick👍🏻 Although I run a Baker.

[@leoverran311]

Wow, a Baker

[@72barracuda70]

Doc I’ve got a 2010 street glide and I changed the stator , I put the compensator and clutch assembly back on and torqued to spec the the chain tensioner back on and new gasket and primery cover and put oil back in and started the bike and I’m hearing what sounds like the chain rattling on the primery cover . What have I done wrong sir ? Please help

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Maybe nothing wrong. Remove the clutch cover with of course the bike off and held upright. Take a long screwdriver and a flashlight and look at how much the chain moves. You might have installed the primary adjuster at a tight spot. If the chain moves very little. Disassemble and be sure one of the spring plates didn’t move out of place…..Doc

[@72barracuda70]

Are you talking about the spring plates that go onto the compensator ? The only thing I noticed about the compensator was it seemed really loose after I tightened it to spec . But I thought that it was normal .

[@72barracuda70]

I’m doing what you told me and I’ll let you know what I seen .

[@72barracuda70]

The chain has play in it . The tensioner doesn’t look like it has expanded much .

[@kaantuncer7884]

What about the faulty adjusters overtightening the primary and causing bushing and shaft failures?

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

How many have you personally seen? How many have you heard about? We’re they all on stock machines?….Doc

[@kaantuncer7884]

@@LowCountryHarleyDavidson i had one in my stock 2013 street bob, i changed it with hayden tensioner. It was tight as hqrd steel. I could tell the difference in gear changes in first ride.

[@mickc4633]

Yes talking about the automatic primary chain adjusters. Be careful how you ride actually you know as well as I do they get entirely too tight. They’re hard on the transmission the bearings everything on that side with them things get so Tight. Better to be a little loose than that tight. It was nice on the older boys we had a little cover to take off a couple minutes and you’re on your way. Now compensators bearings very hard on them. They should have a hydraulic set up for something. But they keep taking shit off . Even better would be is to make it a gear drive. You know like there’s other people. Yeah no chain to worry about. I know that slapping around none of that over tightening just a couple Carrier sprockets. That would be a nice set up strong to if it’s done right. My opinion enjoy your show

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

I wish you were an engineer up at Harley-Davidson...Doc

[@mickc4633]

@@LowCountryHarleyDavidson Hey doc I enjoy your videos wasn’t trying to be a smart ass I hope you didn’t take me that way but I had to take mine off the new Harley self adjusting. Messed everything all up. Seems to me it wouldn’t be all that big of a deal to make that a gear drive. I guess they call that a wear Item. Love my Harley I’m sure you seen a lot of what I’m talking about. I hope they got those lifters straightened out. Damn outsourcing

[@mickc4633]

@@LowCountryHarleyDavidson God bless you and God bless America.

[@fwschnaar3179]

Great Video, and happy I found your Channel 👍...I don’t know if you will see this? I have a 2006 Road King (ex Police Bike) Mine has a Manual Adjuster... Thoughts? Also when shopping for parts, and I scroll through the Model Selection... It always has an option for the Road King Police... What’s the difference between the normal Road King and the Police Model ? 🤔🛵

[@raygregoryride]

How wood one you just yourself like the old style would work in my 13 Limited

[@brycedaw7105]

Gees I know i'm adding a late comment here but will the primary chain need to be changed out if it becomes too stretched and does it make a type of ticking noise when rotating?

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Yes if at the limit of the adjuster. The ticking might be the chain going over the sprockets at an extreme angle….Doc

[@brycedaw7105]

@@LowCountryHarleyDavidson Could it be possible for you to see a vid of the primary chain in motion? That I can send you?

[@dennishardy4402]

Hi is it better to fit a manual Primary Chain adjuster? I have just purchssed a 2021 softail with SE 128 kit fitted. Thanks Dennis

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

I do not have enough history with a manual vs auto but with bigger motors I'm leaning towards the manual....Doc

[@dennishardy4402]

@@LowCountryHarleyDavidson Thanks for the reply.

[@franklinestrada3917]

Hola, tengo una dyna street Bob 2006 internacional, es cierto que tienen problema con el ajuste automático de la primaria? Tengo que hacer algún cambio aunque no tenga ningún problema?

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

If you have no problems you are ok…Doc

[@franklinestrada3917]

@@LowCountryHarleyDavidson muchas gracias, ahora conduzco tranquilo

[@midnightmc3096]

You don't "have any problems" right up 'til the second you DO have problems.

[@BikesILike]

Only recently discovered you Doc am really enjoying your tech videos. I don't own a Harley but if I did I'd certainly want you working on it. I'd really like to hear your thoughts on Rekluse clutches, if you haven't already covered it?

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Fine for stock riding but if you're into performance upgrades I don't recommend it.

[@chuckfast5270]

I believe that the 39929-06B primary auto adjuster didn't appear until 2009 or 10 models so the early adjuster is on 06 Dynas and all 07-09's. Also the 40063-05B retro for earlier models which I also have comes in two pieces (but is weirdly stamped as 39929-06B > go figure?)

[@chopperchopster]

soooo My dyna street bob is an 09. I have the factory service manual. It doesnt show any service interval on the primary chain adjuster. [or I didnt see it since I was looking for something else] I bought her used with only 12K miles on the clock. I actually ride it [daily] Im already at 20K miles. Its basically stock and its transportation I dont race it or ride it like I stole it. When or rather if I should be concerned about that primary chain adjuster? I change all fluids monthly because its cheap insurance and see no metal or nylon in the fluid when drained. Bike is stock EXCEPT for a gear drive and cams, pipes and a remap. Like I said its transportation and ridden as such.

[@johnrussell3196]

Brilliant. Thanks for the instruction Doc.

[@kenvrla9678]

Interesting vid, doc. Stock adjuster on my 98 Ultra works fine and easy to check.

[@skcm2006]

Are there different tensioners for the Milwaukee Eight?

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Not to my knowledge

[@josteinhisen75]

Thanks, I love your videos.

[@tat2dchris1]

Always great content, informative, and to the point.

[@unclemikeb]

Awesome job on the video. Many thanks Doc.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thanks for watching Mike...Doc

[@gohome4614]

did the baker manual chain tensioner install on '12 ultra as well during the bump up to a 110 big bore kit, ported heads, HF injectors, 259 cams, S&S cam plate, TC3 oil pump and inner bearing work...to include a SE compensator and clutch pack....the new comp is way too noisy...clack clack clack, now going to install a man o war comp...anyway, baker manual chain tensionser is thumbs up!

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thanks for sharing your experience...Doc

[@AZSemperFi]

The Doc is always on call and on point. Ha!

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thanks….Doc

[@danielmoody8590]

Thanks for the info, how much were is to much? the book says any were is to much... 2013 103 Electra Glide... thanks!

[@munciebill8674]

My problem was opposite to too tight of a chain. Chain too loose on my 2017 Limited and started slapping inside the case until warmed up. The adjuster did not ratchet up as supposed to.

[@darknitethunder]

Thanks Doc, you just made myself adjustment day, Great Again.

[@ARMASARMY]

Doc.... Could u make a video on clutch adjustment on Softail with M8 engine?... Thanks

[@WagnerBeskow]

Perfect explanation. Thanks

[@quartermain642]

Excellent lesson ..thank you

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thank you for spending your time watching and comenting...Doc

[@tylersanderson1324]

My dealership won’t tell me so do you know if this part number will fit my 2002 Harley software Standard?

[@randysiler7458]

That was a great video. If you have a big TC motor I highly suggest a Baker Drivetrain manuel primary chain adjuster.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thanks for the tip.....Doc

[@CabinGuy]

I get that there's issues with the automatic adjuster, but to put in a manual adjuster means taking off primary ( losing $20 worth of oil) and having to adjust it. Seems like a lose-lose situation.

[@loupuleff571]

hey doc good video but i was wondering if this adjustment can be made thru the access cover i have a 99 road king that i acquired recently can i check and adjust properly thru the access cover ? thanks !!

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Yes Yes 👍 Big advantage of early Primary covers. Wish they still had them. Thanks ~ Doc

[@loupuleff571]

@@LowCountryHarleyDavidson thanks !!

[@theone2be33]

Do a video on battery voltages, bike off and on. What voltage should be. How throttle affects voltage. How to tell if your battery is good or bad.

[@mikebouchard527]

HI doc can you do a video on the auxiliary switches on a 2014 street glide special Left side and right side The Harley instructions are very vague Maybe you can shut some light on this

[@BigTruckRacing]

That was pretty cool Doc thanks , I do have a question and was wondering , why does the clutch clunk so hard when you engage it ? Why wouldn't it be a smooth connection .

[@roncoburn7771]

D Barker run bel- ray primary oil and it will quieter her down

[@Wooley689]

You mean the clunk when you put it in gear? That is the gear engaging, not the clutch and is normal.

[@BigTruckRacing]

@@Wooley689 But why is their so much force that it causes that to happen ? Why isn't it a easy engagement .

[@Wooley689]

@@BigTruckRacing Its the way the gears are cut by design. Now if it is hard to put in gear you may need a clutch adjustment or a fluid change.

[@garybaldwin1061]

Try holding the clutch in 15 seconds when it's cold and most of the time it will drop into first smoothly. When it's hot after starting hold the clutch in and slowly raise rpm to 1500 or a little more and drop into first.

[@watchfuleye5193]

Well explained procedure... Thanks Doc!!