Hi all,

just after everyones thoughts on what to run in the gearbox of my 1978 XLCR. I have a  service manual for 1977, which states the same oil as used in the engine, is to be used in the gearbox as there is some inter mixing of the 2.( I thought that '78 onwards, the 2 were separate?)  I use a straight SAE50 oil in the engine. I tried SAE 50 in the gearbox, and it led to awful clutch drag. Then tried HD's Formula+ in the gearbox which made it a little better., although I think this is more suited to the modern Sport gearbox/primary.
Was then advised by a vintage HD buff to run ATF in the gearbox, but this seems a lttle thin, and whilst it may help the clutch, I'm not sure it will give the required lubrication to the gearbox. I'm thinking I may just try a straight SAE20 weight engine oil & see how that goes. Has anyone else tried anything in an Ironhead Sporty box that has worked OK? Any advice appreciated.

Cheers FBB

XLCR, got some pics?

are you in England , i run HPR 40 W in the early sporty boxes, sportrans oil is for the later models  , you can run ATF but make sure it is a performance type  it is rec from the factory for racing the XR1000 @ Datona back in 1983/4  for the BOTT / BEARS racing . i would pull thje clutch plates & check  also the basket with the 6 studs  straight edge check they always concave , also stock clutch lever lever & perch  or you will have problems stock has more cable travel ,   i ride early sporties 30+yrs  , XLCR / XR, 1974 etc, the 50w will work but will take longer to thin out for the clutch to work proper, when warming up the bike pull the clutch lever in  so the plates can free before clicking 1st gear that way you won't get such a clunk into gear