Can someone tell me reason newer HD's run belt tension very tight, even with rider sitting on bike real tight no free play up & down? Need to know as checking a late model low k bike for a mate. I run my own belt with some free play . So hope someone can explaine .?

 

Krash,

get a manual and take it from there. I bought a new 2007 FSXT and it had a real tight belt, even after first warranty service. Turning rear wheel when on a stand was a bit of effort, no free-wheel at all. Bought a manual (15mm on stand, 18 elevated) and belt tension tool, you know the 10lb spring thingy. I soon had the correct loser tension and could free-wheel the back wheel about a quarter turn (brake drag stop it from spinning more). Also, got a comment from the dyno guy that belt tension sounded right 'cause it makes a certain whine on the dyno. Seems the dealers were setting my FXST tension at about 9mm?? Not good for gearbox and wheel bearings or the belt.

Yer krash buy a manual lol

If ya wanna get technical then manual says use "Secondary Belt Tensioner" part number40006-85.

 

Basically works on 10 pounds of pressure and how much that deflects the belt by.

 If getting technical aint your thing and you were in a poke and did not have one 10 pounds is roughly 5 kilos or 5 litres of beer. Cant quote the deflection off the top of my head.

A good investment if your gunner hang on to your bike and would prefer to take the back wheel off yourself when you change tyres etc. However still a pain in the arse of a set up as your meant to have someone sit on your bike while you adjust the belt!. Fucksake, why did they not make the tool so it could be a one person job?

 

how much deflection do you get at 10lb

It depends on the bike... Softail is 17.5 - 19mm rear wheel elevated. I think the rubber mount engines are different. Maybe someone here has the specs...

I know the way to check adjustment, but after checking a late model HD belt adjustment at a dealer as friend asked me to have a look. sales person said that is how there tech set it so must be right. there was no free play at all, i asked sales person to sit on bike & belt was still tight no free play. asked a few guys i know who work on HD's they all said the new ones are always tight. i personaly think it will put too much load on bearing. from what you guys are showing & telling me, still same as old HD belt drives. i have my own belt looser than what this newer bike was set at by a tech.thanks again for the responces.

 

I use the 45 degree twist test, cold belt.
Too tight is far worse than too loose.

Thanks for that Speedster!!!!