Special Tools
| Description | Part Number | Qty. |
|---|---|---|
| BELT TENSION GAUGE | HD-35381-A | 1 |
Belt deflection can be measured either manually with a gauge or harmonically by using a frequency meter or a downloadable phone app.
Manual Belt Deflection Measurement
NOTE
Always use the required special tool to measure belt deflection. Failure to use tension gauge may cause under-tensioned belts. Loose belts can fail due to "ratcheting" (jumping a tooth) which causes tensile cord crimping and breakage.
Check belt deflection:
- With motorcycle at ambient temperature.
- With motorcycle upright or on jiffy stand with rear wheel on the ground.
| 1. | Deactivate electrical system. See SECURITY SYSTEM → Disconnecting Power. | |
| 2. | See Figure 1. Measure belt deflection using: Special Tool: BELT TENSION GAUGE (HD-35381-A) a. Slide O-ring (4) to zero mark (3). b. Fit belt cradle (2) against bottom of drive belt in line with belt deflection window. c. Press upward on knob (6) until O-ring slides down to 4.54 kg (10 lb) mark (5) and hold steady. | |
| 3. | Measure belt deflection: a. See Figure 2. Measure belt deflection as viewed through belt deflection viewing window while holding gauge steady. Each deflection graduation is approximately 1.6 mm (1/16 in). | |
| 4. | Compare with specifications. Refer to Table 1. If not within specifications, see an authorized dealer. | |
| 5. | Reactivate electrical system. See SECURITY SYSTEM → Disconnecting Power. |
Table 1. Drive Belt Deflection
DEFLECTION LENGTH(1) | |
|---|---|
in | mm |
1/4-3/8 | 6.3-9.5 |
(1) Deflection measured at 10 lb (4.5 kg) tension.
| 1 | Belt tension gauge |
| 2 | Belt cradle |
| 3 | 0 lb (0 kg) mark |
| 4 | O-ring |
| 5 | 10 lb (4.5 kg) mark |
| 6 | Knob |
Figure 1. Belt Tension Gauge
| 1 | Drive belt |
| 2 | Deflection graduations (Approx: 1.5 mm (1/16-in) |
Figure 2. Belt Deflection Window
Harmonic Belt Deflection Measurement
Check belt deflection:
- With motorcycle at ambient temperature.
- With motorcycle upright or on jiffy stand with rear wheel on the ground.
- With the vehicle unladen: no rider and no luggage.
| 1. | Deactivate electrical system. See SECURITY SYSTEM → Disconnecting Power. | |
| 2. | NOTE Use Gates® Carbon Drive™ Smartphone application to measure drive belt frequency. Digital frequency meters operate in the same manner by placing sensor close to belt. a. Open phone app. b. Turn on phone's microphone. c. Hold phone near belt deflection window. d. See Figure 3. Use finger or thumb to pluck back side of lower belt at belt deflection window. e. Measure frequency of belt. f. Take multiple measurements to ensure measurement is consistent. | |
| 3. | Rotate rear wheel 90 degrees and repeat procedure. | |
| 4. | Compare with specifications. Table 2 If not within specifications, see Adjust Belt in this section. | |
| 5. | Reactivate electrical system. See SECURITY SYSTEM → Disconnecting Power. |
Figure 3. Belt Pluck
Table 2. Drive Belt Frequency
Belt Condition | Hz |
|---|---|
New belt tension | 57–63 Hz |
Service belt tension | 48–52 Hz |