Shifter Pawl Adjustment: Tips and Techniques

[@oe542]

My mother was the original owner of that Bike! Still looking great after all these years. Congrats on your channel!

[@davebarnes6672]

I don’t know why but I just like this guys style, maybe because he doesn’t talk too fast . I do own all the Fix my hog dvd videos this guy has because they are easy to follow!

[@ryancornelius1007]

Love these videos, the dude knows his shit. Shares the tips and tricks and makes it easy to understand. My bike seems like first gear doesn’t quite catch then it slams into gear. Only first, sometimes it feels like it will slip then slam to gear. Trying to get it straightened out. Thanks for the tip I’m gonna check this. Only shifting from neutral to first.

[@Bx-ww5hx]

(Twin Cam FXDC) I changed to an internal belt-driven primary drive system with a dry clutch... no more clunk changing into first gear, either from neutral or changing down from second gear. It's so buttery-smooth from neutral-to-first that the only confirmation the transmission is in gear is the N light going off and the bike moving when the clutch is released. The transmission feel is otherwise pretty much the same once on the move. From this experience, I believe the Harley clunk is a little to do with the transmission design/style but a lot to do with clutch drag, paired to their long heavy primary drive chain and compensator. (Rev a cold Twin Cam engine with first gear engaged and clutch lever pulled-in... the bike still tries to creep forward. Or, on Evolution engines, shifting into first gear at a high-idle would cause gear grinding). I don't think Harley's primary chain and compensator design helps the situation; there's a lot of play in there. Regardless of my opinions, my experience is that replacing Harley's wet clutch plus primary chain and compensator system with a belt drive (no compensator) and matching clutch assembly got rid of the clunk, and got rid of all the primary drive noise as well.

[@user-livetoknow]

Seems to drop into neutral easier when I've got my clutch in and I rev the engine up a bit. Mine seems to stick more when I'm coming to a slow stop.

[@stephenbodholdt4326]

Outstanding information 👍🇺🇸

[@danielbouchie6397]

Great video! Thank you for this info!

[@roygreen2672]

I dont have trouble finding nuteral. I have trouble downshifting, I downshift and when I downshift again the gear lever moves up and down freely until it manages to grab the next lower gear. Will this solve my dilema. Have 2018 ultra anniversary and in Australia. Thanks heaps

[@ErikR1979]

I have this issue as well, I have a 2021 Fat Bob, and it will not complete a second downshift after there has been one downshift already. This came from the factory this way. It's been laid up in the shop more than it's been on the road while they try to find a "fix". Have you had any luck with yours? Harley seems to be at a loss with mine.

[@gorillagospelmotorcycleclub]

Awesome. Thank you.

[@mrbigg7255]

Excellent video

[@MrGusflyer]

Great video . Thanks 👍

[@heresy_fnord]

Mind if I borrow those tools for an afternoon? 12/pk of your fav... Or please refer a place to purchase them. I'm learning to hate making Harley specialty tools (I have an assortment and am running light on certain wrench sizes). I appreciate your video's, man. They really help.

[@FixMyHogfreechannel]

Hello, The tools used for the demonstration were purchased over 20 years ago. Unfortunately, if you are unable to track them down, you will need to manipulate 1/4" & 11/16" wrenches to make an adjustment. www.fixmyhog.com/video/how-to-search-fix-my-hog-008641/ Thanks, Mark Fix My Hog Video Membership

[@JCcanU]

FXST 2001 has no adjustment , I reset the clutch and cable . it was fine for 3 days and doing it again skips from first to second unless the bike is turned off , I know the main shaft is always turning when running the engine . Have checked the fluid its at the Diaphragm spring. 36 oz prime oil I hear guys say they only add 24 oz and it cures this . less than 50,000 miles never abused or beat down on owner is 75 Not a speed freek . Tomorrow , I plan on doing everything over for him Im stumped , I go by what the Harley Manual has said . it shifts fine just cant hit neutral , started last summer . I get 80,000 out of my clutch pack his bike is lighter.

[@FixMyHogfreechannel]

Hello, I do not see that your active Premium Member. Our Ask Expert Program is a benefit for our Premium members. Here is a link to our Premium membership at a deep discounted rate: go.fixmyhog.com/C21154

[@revbikerbigd8664]

Everything works good except when down shifting! 3rd---1 st gears takes hitting lever to many time to get it to go down thru the gears. Neutral is easy to find. just no clicking from 4 to 3 to 2 to first, with out hammering or pushing down hard and fast many times seems to get it back to first gear or neutral! all with the bike rolling. Any ideas would be helpful. 1999 FLSTC with only 6 K on it. Up shifting works perfectly! just down shifting. thanks!

[@MauriceLanders-o1k]

Can I ask where to get those specialty tools? The adjustment is a actually an 3/16 allen I believe but the nut is 11/16

[@rossspencer3036]

Clear & informative..thanks

[@OSCARANDRES039]

Thank you for your amazing videos. Quck question, does the 88 sporster have a shifter pawl adjustment screw or spring or anything??? Thank you

[@FixMyHogfreechannel]

Your 88' Sportster has a shifter cam with a shift cam follower that has 2 springs. It is not uncommon to have an issue with the shift, cam follower assembly. www.fixmyhog.com/videos/sportster-maintenance/

[@OSCARANDRES039]

@@FixMyHogfreechannelthank u!!👍🤗

[@fagen2222]

its 9 pm but i will have to go out and see if thats the peob with mine hope so

[@abemartinez9623]

myn91 sportser has a hardtime finding neutral , doesnt roll back

[@FixMyHogfreechannel]

Hello Abe, Great question! Please refer to our Tech Q&A page for more information. www.fixmyhog.com/posts/harley-tips/ Our Premium Members enjoy ‘Ask an Expert’ as a part of their paying membership. By becoming a member, you will have access to our expert’s knowledge in motorcycle repair, great discounts on products and hours of Premium video content. If you are interested in becoming a member to Fix My Hog, please click on the special offer below: go.fixmyhog.com/C22404 Thanks!

[@travisstewart7513]

or adjust your clutch if it's a cable clutch

[@james44mag31]

Always give my bike just a little gas as I'm pulling up to stop and it'll go right into neutral try it you'll like it, just barely touch the throttle!

[@JCcanU]

3 of my bikes was the same way give it a burp and it speed up the trans and slip right in Neutral

[@carystarke8000]

I had no problems on my 2000 HD Road King police , until i decided to change the inner shift lever ( Ness) , after buttoning everything back up, it now feels like my Tranny is locked up, can't get into neutral or gear , i suspect i did not get the Lever in the exact proper positioning. The design of the Ness probably is misleading and is too far forward. Can't really use the Shift Linkage Rod as a template I guess .

[@Boeing767DriverAA]

Took my HD 06 DWG out for a short ride 10 miles..... Everything seemed fine stopped for gas. Then headed back on the road and started having trouble shifting into 2nd it seemed to shift ok but was actually in neutral. Shifted back into 1st ok then tried again finally got 2nd gear. After stopping at the next light same thing happened again couldnt get into 2nd Glad there wasnt a car behind me. After pulling over I kept trying from Neutral to 2nd until it caught. going into 3rd and up no problem.... Well this is the first time this has ever happened..... Any ideas....??? Guess I'll take it to the Dealer Tuesday...

[@FixMyHogfreechannel]

Hello Terry, Great question! Please refer to our Tech Q&A page for more information. www.fixmyhog.com/posts/harley-tips/ Our Premium Members enjoy ‘Ask an Expert’ as a part of their paying membership. By becoming a member, you will have access to our expert’s knowledge in motorcycle repair, great discounts on products and hours of Premium video content. If you are interested in becoming a member to Fix My Hog, please click on the special offer below: go.fixmyhog.com/C22404 Thanks!

[@Boeing767DriverAA]

@@FixMyHogfreechannel I see since Im already a member i didnt know that part thx

[@Boeing767DriverAA]

@@FixMyHogfreechannel I renewed my membership Im still waiting for a reply...thx

[@leemcbroom4708]

What was your issue? My 02 DWG is doing the same thing. Seems like a common problem another guy commenting on this video is having the same issue.

[@Boeing767DriverAA]

@@leemcbroom4708 Good question I took the bike to 2 sep HD dealerships and they couldnt duplicate the problem. They claim I wasnt being more forceful with my shifting lol. Anyways going from 1st to 2nd it wouldnt go into gear hit it again 3rd and up no problem. Its not doing it anymore I have no idea what was happening

[@chriskreiner1535]

So where can I get these two tools at

[@AgeefabandweldingLLC]

Neutral is hard to find and it doesn’t want to go into 3rd unless I’m going about 15mph the it will pop in. Lhd ultima 6spd is the trans I’ve got Also has a open primary any advice?

[@FixMyHogfreechannel]

Hello Logan, More Tech Q&A on our site: www.fixmyhog.com/post/hard-neutral/

[@birgaripyolcu-w7x]

Hi I am living in Norway and I bought HD xgstreet750 .First 800 km service finished. I noticed it is almost impossible find the neutral. The garrage (also hd saler where i live ) said it is because of HD design and he showed me all new and second hand HDs at shop. They were also the same. My question is how i can fix this problem thanks

[@FixMyHogfreechannel]

Hello we have more info on the topic on our website: www.fixmyhog.com/post/hard-neutral/

[@deradler3261]

Nice video. Thanks. Subscribed

[@yungoldhead5600]

Will this work on a twin cam?

[@FixMyHogfreechannel]

More Info on our website: www.fixmyhog.com/videos/harley-transmission-project/

[@NicovanderVeen001]

What are the names of the 2 tools for adjusting the tollerance? part nr? Where can I order these tools? Thanks for giving some feedback!

[@FixMyHogfreechannel]

Great question! The ‘Ask an Expert’ section is currently for members of our online community. I would be happy to send your question off to the experts. To get started, please send the email associated with your paid membership account. Thanks!

[@FixMyHogfreechannel]

Unfortunately, if you are unable to track them down, you will need to manipulate 1/4" & 11/16" wrenches to make an adjustment.

[@Richiebones]

Hey brother my bike will not go into neutral unless the bike is off . It a 92 Harley-Davidson softail heritage

[@FixMyHogfreechannel]

Great question! We have a lot of technical answers on our website. www.fixmyhog.com/harley-tips-a-z-index and ‘Ask an Expert’ section for members of our online community. I would be happy to send your question off to the experts. To get started, please send the email associated with your paid membership. Thanks! Harley Tips A-Z Index | Fix My Hog | Harley Davidson Repair Since 2004, we have been answering Harley-Davidson technical questions. Our videos cover Harley-Davidson motorcycles from 1984 through today.

[@alejandrorocha4693]

I have a 1997 wide glide. With the engine running and at a stand still, the motorcycle wont shift into neutral or any othrt gear. Only after i turn off the engine, will it shift from 1st into neutral and all the gears. What could be the problem?

[@FixMyHogfreechannel]

Ask An Expert’ section for members of our online community. I would be happy to send your question off to the experts. To get started, please send the email associated with your paid membership. Thanks! Great question! We have a lot of technical answers on our website. www.fixmyhog.com/harley-tips-a-z-index

[@williamdalexander4858]

Hey brother, my daughter just bought a honda shadow 500, mid 80's I think.... she called me yesterday saying her shifter pops into neutral from first on its own... it doesn't happen all the time, and only happens from first...... please help

[@FixMyHogfreechannel]

Great question! The ‘Ask an Expert’ section is currently for members of our online community. I would be happy to send your question off to the experts. To get started, please send the email associated with your paid membership account. Thanks!

[@ashtonmorris3517]

Could this be the problem on my 2001 Dyna Wide Glide? I have a issue getting from 1st to 2nd with a passenger on the back. If I am riding solo the issue does not happen as often.

[@ashtonmorris3517]

I get stuck in neutral.

[@FixMyHogfreechannel]

Hello, No. There is no shift pawl adjustment for Twin Cam models. Only Harley Evolution models. Having a passenger should have no bearing on the way you HD shifts. Make sure that there is no binding caused by your shift linkage being set up incorrectly. Raise your rear wheel (m/c not running) & try shifting up & down through the gears. If shifting is difficult, the issue is likely in your linkage or transmission. If it shifts good this way, the issue is more likely to be in your clutch, primary drive, or throw out bearing. www.fixmyhog.com/video/harley-throw-out-bearing-011395/ www.fixmyhog.com/video/harley-davidson-gear-shift-linkage-and-neutral-issues-008726/ Hope this helps! Mark Fix My Hog Video Membership

[@leemcbroom4708]

What was your issue? My 2002 Wide Glide is having the same issue.

[@revbikerbigd8664]

I check my shifter today to see if it was centered. With just the arm on the trans, no linkage, I can move it a little forward and backwards, no spring tension on it tho??? feels like it moves on the pins 1/8" each way. My problem is down shifting. I have to hit the shifter too many times hard to get it back to first or neutral when stopping for a stop. It up shifts great ! 99 FLSTC 6 speed baker. Any Help to find out why I have this problem?, the bike only has 6K on it. Just bought it.

[@FixMyHogfreechannel]

When checking shift pawl adjustment on your Baker transmission, make sure you are in 3rd gear. If you can down shift without issue with the shift linkage disconnected, the issue is probably in your linkage / lever assembly. If there is binding with linkage disconnected, the issue is in the transmission. The specialty tools used in our shift pawl demonstration were purchased decades ago. The exact same tools may not be currently available. Suggest looking at Jims Tools, Drag Specialties, or V-Twin if interested. Otherwise, you can use 11/16" & 1/4" wrenches. Sometimes you can bend wrenches to reach better. www.fixmyhog.com/video/shifter-pawl-adjustment-012748/ www.fixmyhog.com/post/videos-harley/

[@finley614]

RevBiker Big D Baker actually has a video on how to do this adjustment also

[@shane.fholderlysr6738]

just bought a 2004 dyna when trying to shift into second it doesn't engage all other gears and neutral are fine any ideas

[@FixMyHogfreechannel]

could be a couple things check out these: www.fixmyhog.com/video/stripped-harley-shifter-shaft-009555/

[@Bluespreacher]

I have an 85 Superglide, EVO with a 4 Spd. Wont shift in and out of 2nd or 3rd unless I reach down and grab the foot shifter and slam it into gear. It just started doing this all of a sudden. Clutch feels good, recently changed the pack and shifter rod, throw out. Was clunking into 1st when cold but stopped after warming up. Could it be the Pawl adjustment, or any other ideas would help. Just ordered a Baker 6 spd and need to get back in the wind.

[@FixMyHogfreechannel]

Hello Rocky, 1st inspect your shift linkage. Then, lift the rear wheel with a flat jack. Try shifting without the bike running. If shifting is possible this way, your issue will likely be found in the clutch/primary drive.If not, the issue is with the shift linkage or inside the transmission. www.fixmyhog.com/video/how-to-search-fix-my-hog-008641/ www.fixmyhog.com/video/welcome-to-fix-my-hog-site-review-008131/ www.fixmyhog.com/video-index/ Hope this helps, Mark Fix My Hog Video Membership

[@lisar3006]

My 1972 Harley FLH has a problem going into neutral when the bike is fully stopped. It just started doing it last fall I did a totally rebuild in 89 and the bike has about 20.000 miles on it but the clutch is new with about 2000 miles on it or less.

[@FixMyHogfreechannel]

Suggest removing and servicing clutch plates. Re-assemble and adjust. When plates are removed, inspect the basket and hub. If there are significant wear grooves, may need to consider replacement. We would try cleaning up 1st. www.fixmyhog.com/video/how-to-search-fix-my-hog-008641/ www.fixmyhog.com/video/welcome-to-fix-my-hog-site-review-008131/ www.fixmyhog.com/video-index/

[@mikeysmith3755]

cank

[@mikeysmith3755]

9

[@mikeysmith3755]

fahtndau

[@mikeysmith3755]

ns

[@kendtchileninjah5905]

Thanks for the vid..I’m not good with bikes just yet but My 2005 Honda Shadow VLX 600 wont shift out of neutral..it will start and it revs good but that’s all..any advice?

[@julianmatei5139]

After clutch change i have some issues... After i put in first and start rolling i hear an clunk even the clutch lever is released... Or in second gear bike runs with hops . Or shifter get stiffed between 2 and 3th gear... Anyone have clues? Thx

[@FixMyHogfreechannel]

How was it before the clutch change? Might be best to open it up and see what's going on. Some videos and Q&A here: www.fixmyhog.com/post/tag/clutch/

[@0311marinevet]

Could this also be the reason I cant shift above 3rd on my Sportster?

[@FixMyHogfreechannel]

Start with a clutch adjustment: www.fixmyhog.com/video/fluid-service-clutch-primary-chain-adjustment-001223/

[@kennethwilson7056]

Why is it hard for me to shift to second when engine cold, nearly breaks my toe trying to shift,warms up then gets easier,any help appreciated,2000 Deuce

[@FixMyHogfreechannel]

Hello Kenneth, I do not see that your active Premium customer. Our Ask Expert Program is for those Premium members. Here is a link to our Premium membership at a deep discounted rate: go.fixmyhog.com/C21971

[@anthonyshemwrx]

FixMyHogfreechannel lmao how many people actually pay you??? Instantly stopped watching your video when I seen your response to this comment. U broke ass can’t even give a helpful tip to someone but instead ask for money. GTFO.

[@POPPASHANGO]

Does anyone else want to hear this guy say, "If you don't adjust your pawl just right you're not going to amount to jack squat!! And you're going to end up living in a van down by the river!!!"

[@chrislacosse6500]

POPPASHANGO haha

[@kendtchileninjah5905]

😎🤙🏾

[@giovannijoseph9580]

I hear, "if you are going to do this, why not try to do it as correctly as possible"! I know nothing. So, if I do it exactly as instructed, and it continues to be a problem, then either that ain't it, or I got wrong instructions! Repeat with correct instructions, and/or seek other possible causes!

[@discipleofchrist5217]

Well my problem is a little different i can shift up from first threwball 5 gears & i can shift down from 5 threw all 5 gears however when i get to first gear i get a little gring & sometimes have to tap the leaver with my foot a few times before it goes into 1st gear. Ibe only owned the bike about 9 months & never had a problem until about a month ago i started to notice it halpening. Any ideas as to what it could be? 03 road king flhri

[@FixMyHogfreechannel]

Hello, What you describe is, most often, associated with linkage/shift lever binding. Inspect your shift assembly from the transmission shift lever and forward to the heel & toe shift arms. Make sure there is no excessive play @ the transmission shift arm or the shift shaft. Also, verify that your clutch is correctly adjusted @ the clutch pack & the cable. www.fixmyhog.com/video/primary-fluid-service-w-clutch-primary-chain-adjustment-001305/ www.fixmyhog.com/videos/touring-maintenance/ Hope this helps, Mark Fix My Hog Video Membership

[@bigginokid]

All harleys do this just blip the throttle while u go to neutral works every time

[@brandonjones152]

My 94 Electric glide can’t find it … never find it going down from second

[@pmaint1]

You're not supposed to find neutral from higher gears That can easily cause an accident.

[@raymondbotello3456]

I have a 2021 sporster I have a bad raddling coming from my side of casing help

[@porkbunassassin2295]

What if its only when its running? Off, itll go into N all day fine.

[@FixMyHogfreechannel]

check your clutch adjustment and more here: www.fixmyhog.com/post/harley-shifter-pawl/

[@johnfelice4934]

Where do you get the tool

[@billyvandiver6150]

What if u can't shift it to 3rd

[@FixMyHogfreechannel]

Stop by our Tech Q&A on clutch and transmission: www.fixmyhog.com/post/tag/clutch/

[@markkuhar1188]

I have a 2014 street glide I wanna cry when it’s warm it will not go into neutral. I’m gonna start with changing the fluid. That said some say go Lucas others claim stay Harley. It’s hard to believe all the opinions?.

[@FixMyHogfreechannel]

Great question! The ‘Ask an Expert’ section is currently for members of our online community. I would be happy to send your question off to the experts. To get started, please send the email associated with your paid membership account. Thanks!

[@FixMyHogfreechannel]

More info here: www.fixmyhog.com/videos/touring-maintenance/

[@revbikerbigd8664]

Where do you by these tools ???

[@FixMyHogfreechannel]

If the tools can not be found on line you can pick up cheap 11/16" and 1/4" wrenches. Then, cut or bend as needed. www.fixmyhog.com/post/videos-harley/

[@revbikerbigd8664]

FixMyHogfreechannel who made the tools in this video?

[@Closdmon]

FixMyHogfreechannel what is the name part number of the tools please and thank you sir

[@Closdmon]

FixMyHogfreechannel what’s the name of the maker of the tool sir

[@Kr8z1]

Requesting name of tools here too please.

[@riskromer9773]

this guy talks like Penn Jillette

[@46GarageUSA]

Luv Harley, but this is more bullshit from a company that doesn't give a Fruck about Quality control before it leaves the factory