was changing my primary oil today and noticed the forward end of the primary chain tensioner was broke off do not remember it being that way last time i checked but was new to the harley so i might not have noticed then. checked to have correct tension still. Just wondered what would have caused the break. the bike is an 03 heritage 25k miles. also can i just replace that shoe or should i buy the new auto tensioner setup.

 

Have no idea what caused it, maybe adjusted too tight? I'm sure the shoe is all that's needed. You want about 9/16" play at cold temp when adjusted.

 

I wouldn't bother with the auto tensioner. You can adjust more accurately with manual adjust.

 

I was thinking since it was at the loosest end of the specifications that it might have been a little too loose and caused it i think i will go with the new shoe its not expensive the primary gasket will cost more than the shoe.

 

If you're lucky, you won't need a new primary gasket!