I have a 05 Road King and I am going to install an automatic primary chain adjuster. I haven't decided on which one yet. My choices are the Harley Davidson, Hayden M-6 or Hot Bikes hydraulic primary chain adjuster. Who has used any of these and what were the benefits other than not having to adjust the primary chain? Is there any modifications to brackets, primary cover or anything else that sometimes manufacturers kinda forget to tell you when your buying. Each one seems to be pretty straight forward on their installation instuctions. The cost of each one is close, right around $100.00. I would appreciate all opinions.Thanks

 

Hi I have used the hydrolic tensioner shown in the link below.

http://www.jpcycles.com/productgroup...E-39ACA29E892A


I installed it on an 04 Nightrain and it was easy to fit, well made and worked a treat. Reduced noise and clunks considerably. It comes with easy to follow instructions and didn't overtighten the chain. I haven't used the other types but if I fitted another one it would be this unit again.

WB

 

I had a M-6 on my '04 RK. No problems after 30,000 miles. My '08 Ultra has the standard Harley auto adjuster. It seems to work fine, although I have heard stories of it making the primary chain too tight.

 

I installed the HB-125 about 20,000 miles ago. Works GREAT no problems!

http://www.sohotbikes.com/

http://www.sohotbikes.com/instructions.pdf

 

I've heard good things about the HB - 125, but not used it.

I put the M6 on my Dyna 20,000 miles ago and it has worked flawlessly. It was easy to install.

HI've heard bad things about the HD tensioner. apparently it uses a ratcheting mechanism rather than a spring tensioner. I've heard that it is possible for the HD one to set the primary chain too tight. Again, no personal exsperience with the HD unit.

 

Why a automatic tensioner? Just check it at every primary change. In over 20,000 miles mine has never needed adjusted.

 

With the stock tensioner, the adjustment is a compromise. When you adjust it you have to make the adjustment with the chain in it's tightest position by rotating the rear wheel with the trans in gear. This leaves the chain lose in some places and snug in others as it runs. With the M6, the spring in the tensioner keeps the tension constant as you ride. No lose spots. Probably not a big deal, but when I put the M6 on, I did notice a slight improvement in shift quality, and less noise from the primary (after the new shoe wore in).

 

Exactly. It is nothing more than an unneccessary luxury. In 69k miles, I have had to adjust my chain only one time.

 

+ 1.....Why bother with it. They rarely need adjusting anyways...

 

once the chain is broke in it seldom needs adjustment. i never touch mine. it always stays the same.