The drive chain should be checked for worn chain links and correct adjustment. As chains stretch and wear in service, they will run tighter at one point on the sprocket. Always rotate rear wheel and check adjustment at tightest point of chain.
Chain deflection is critical to increased life of the chain and sprockets. Check deflection as instructed below. Too tight may cause premature wear, damage and breakage. Too loose may cause premature wear, excessive noise and poor transition between acceleration and deceleration.
Inspect Drive Chain
| 1. | Inspect drive chain for: |
- Dirt
- Rust
- Binding
- Damaged links
- Damaged O-rings
Measure Drive Chain Deflection
NOTE
Chain deflection can be measured on center stand or on jiffy stand with no rider.
NOTE
Measure chain deflection at center of pins.
| 1. | See Figure 1. Measure chain deflection. a. Place transmission in neutral. b. Find center point on lower section of chain between transmission sprocket (1) and rear wheel sprocket (2) centers. c. Rotate wheel to find tightest point of chain at measure point (3). d. Push chain up then pull down to measure amount of deflection (4) in lower portion of chain. e. Measure deflection several times during wheel rotation. f. Use average of measurements to determine drive chain deflection. g. Compare with specifications. Refer to Table 1. If not within specifications, see a Harley-Davidson dealer. |
Table 1. Drive Chain Deflection
VEHICLE POSITION | DEFLECTION | |
|---|---|---|
in | mm | |
Vehicle on center stand | 1.97-2.36 | 50-60 |
Vehicle on jiffy stand | 1.81-2.20 | 46-56 |
| 1 | Transmission sprocket |
| 2 | Rear wheel sprocket |
| 3 | Measure point |
| 4 | Amount of deflection |
Figure 1. Checking Drive Chain Deflection
Clean and Lubricate
NOTE
Use of the following may result in damage to chain O-rings:
- Steam cleaners
- High-pressure cleaners
- Wire or hard bristle brushes
- Volatile solvents like gasoline and benzene
- Abrasive cleaners
- Chain cleaners or lubricants not specifically designed for O-ring chains
| 1. | Lubricate chain using O-ring chain compatible lubricant per instructions on container. | |
| 2. | Wipe off excess lubricant. |
Inspect Front and Rear Sprockets
See Figure 2. Inspect each tooth of sprocket for:
- Major tooth damage
- Gouges caused by hard objects
If sprockets show major tooth damage or cracks see a Harley-Davidson dealer.
| 1 | Good |
| 2 | Worn |
| 3 | Replace |
Figure 2. Sprocket Teeth Condition
Inspect Chain Guide
See Figure 3. Inspect chain guide (1) and rail (2) for:
- Damage
- Wear
| 1 | Chain Guide |
| 2 | Rail (2) |
Figure 3. Chain Guide Rails