General
Refer to Maintenance Scheduling → Regular Service Intervals → Regular Service Intervals: 2007 Sportster Models. Primary (front) chain adjustment should be checked at proper intervals and serviced as necessary. If the chain is allowed to run loose, it will cause the motorcycle to jerk when running at low speed, and chain and sprockets will wear excessively. If this happens, see a Harley-Davidson dealer or Service Manual for adjustment procedure.
Table 1. Primary Chain Adjustment: Sportster Models
FREE PLAY | INCHES | MILLIMETERS |
|---|---|---|
COLD engine | 3/8-1/2 | 9.5-12.7 |
HOT engine | 1/4-3/8 | 6.3-9.5 |
| 1 | Measurement point between sprockets |
| 2 | Free play measurement |
Figure 1. Primary Chain Vertical Free Play: Sportster Models
Procedure
The primary chain can be adjusted without removing the primary cover.
WARNINGTo prevent accidental vehicle start-up, which could cause death or serious injury, disconnect negative (-) battery cable before proceeding. (00048a)
| 1. | Unthread nut and remove battery negative cable (black) from crankcase stud. | |
| 2. | See Maintenance and Lubrication → Transmission Lubrication: Sportster Models → Primary Cover: 2007 Sportster Models. Remove the two hex socket screws which secure primary chain inspection cover (3). | |
| 3. | Rotate sprockets to find tightest point on primary chain. | |
NOTICE Do not adjust the primary chain tighter than specified. Running chain too tight will result in excessive wear. (00202a) | ||
| 4. | See Figure 2. Loosen locknut (1). | |
| 5. | Turn chain adjuster screw (2) clockwise (inward) to reduce free play or counterclockwise (outward) to increase free play. Vertical free play must fall within the limits specified. Refer to Table 1. NOTE If vertical free play cannot be set within the limits specified, then primary chain and/or chain adjuster are worn beyond adjustment limits. Replace parts as necessary. | |
| 6. | When tension is set correctly, tighten locknut to 27–34 N·m (20–25 ft-lbs). | |
| 7. | Install primary chain inspection cover. Tighten hex socket screws to 4.5–6.8 N·m (40–60 in-lbs). |
| 1 | Locknut |
| 2 | Chain adjuster screw |
| 3 | Transmission chaincase drain plug |
Figure 2. Primary Chain Adjuster: 2007 Sportster Models