Clutch Adjustment - Harley Forum

unfknblvbl · #1 10-20-2009, 08:03 PM

Would you recommend a novice bike "wrencher" (if I'm allowed to call myself that) adjusting his own clutch? I have the service manual and per the manual it seems like a fairly easy task.

Well let me explain real quick, first off I didn't take my bike in for it's 5k service, but I did have it serviced (i.e. lubes changed and neck bearings greased), but it was done by an independent shop vice the dealer. My buddy who is a tech for a dealer said that is the biggest thing that is done on the 5k service is the clutch basket is adjusted and that wasn't done. Yesterday when I got home and parked the bike I noticed the clutch lever didn't return all the way "home", so I know the cable needs adjusted, but I figured I might as well adjust it all while in the process.

So for someone who has never done this would you recommend it?

tejasandre · #2 10-20-2009, 08:37 PM

I say go for it. Although I've never done it, a friend who's no pro does his own with no problem.

Tbone · #3 10-20-2009, 08:44 PM

I had never done it before and I did it. I don't even use the book anymore. If I can do it, anyone can do it.
No pressure, though.

unclepsycho · #4 10-20-2009, 09:10 PM

Yup....Go For It. You can figger it out and then check it off the list of stuff you can do to keep the bike runnin right.

If you loosen the jamb nut and back off the adjuster just a tad, then turn in the adjuster back in real light with your finger tips... I usually tap the clutch handle real lightly and I can feel it in the adjuster, and turn the adjuster real light.... This lets me knowthere is no play in there. it dont need to go any past where it feels like it just touched bottom. then tighten the jamb nut. Any other slack can be taken upin the cable adjustr.

Ya now... I never read the book

... maybe I should go read it... I just do it the way I described.

and so far it has worked for me.

Bigincher · #5 10-20-2009, 09:57 PM

Let's see......... your bike is an '08. Are you sure the clutch isn't computer controlled...?

unfknblvbl · #6 10-20-2009, 10:38 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bigincher

Let's see......... your bike is an '08. Are you sure the clutch isn't computer controlled...?

Yep, pretty sure it's not

Alright then going for it I am. I was going to attempt it anyhow, but the first time I turn wrenches on anything I like to ask to get those who've done it opinions. I always have that fear of screwing up something worse than it is then it costing me more money in the long run...yep, I've had that problem once or twice

evoKENevo · #7 10-21-2009, 08:27 AM

UFB
The only thing I have to add here is to be sure to start your adjusting by loosening the clutch cable adjuster first...do your actual clutch adjusting...and then finish by re-tightening your clutch cable adjuster 'til there's just a little play in your hand lever.

Bigincher · #8 10-21-2009, 09:12 AM

Ken, you make a good point. It appears that many people are thinking that adjusting the slack in the cable is the same as adjusting the clutch. It is NOT. Every service manual for every model must have a paragraph on adjusting the clutch. If the clutch is still working well (no slipping, no grinding gears), and the disks are just starting to wear, perhaps taking a little slack out of the cable is all that is needed.

Gas Man · #9 10-22-2009, 01:22 AM

Can find the clutch adjustment with pics in thread below

How To: Service your 2009 FLH Twin Cam 96

#10 10-24-2009, 09:47 AM

You can do this. The biggest thing is the shop manual which you already have. Read it over a few times and then sit down in front of your bike and identify the tools you'll need to adjust the cable and the clutch itself (basic tools). Study your bike while you have your manual. If you feel comfortable go for it but take your time. Sounds like the cable is a bit out of adjustment but you should adjust the clutch as per the manual. I doubt you'll notice any change after the adjustment other than where the clutch engages after you adjust it. You'll be fine.