So I pulled primary just to check everything.
It would appear I have the preferred self adjusting primary chain adjuster.
Probably the original fro. 1981.
I've got about 3/4 to 1inch play in the chain.
My real question is........do I REALLY have to change the primary gasket?
I'm not trying to be cheap here.....but the one thats on now looks fine and it didn't have any leaks.
I did buy a new one which I can easily put on but I just hate wasting materials.
Tx for your input!
BTW.........is that chain tensioner plastic yellow due to age or is that normal?
Unkess Im wrong they are white when new.
And if it is from age...... do I have to risk it disintegrateing on me????

 

im sure mine was yellow 1980. does your clutch work good. like getting neutral at standstill id reuse the gasket. if it leaks change it

 

it doesn't look like a self adjusting chain tensioner to me,..
just the stock item i have adjusted many MANY times on my Shovelheads over the years,..
not got one now as i'm running a 3'' belt drive so nothing to look at now to check

 

Run it. If it leaks you need a new gasket.

The yellow plastic is nothing to worry about.

 

It is the early type self adjusting unit...

You adjust it yo self...

Seriously, it is a manual adjuster.

@81shovelhd!

The adjuster show turns yellow from the oil, as long as it looks ok, leave it be.

The locktabs for the adjuster bolts are no longer available from the dealer, but you can get them in the aftermarket, J&P. Dennis Kirk.

The part number is 39996-65.

The safety wire job is unacceptable, even for a ground vehicle .

I reuse primary gaskets until they leak, or get damaged during removal, they are too expensive throw away.

 

Yep ... That safety wire job isn't doing anything and could cause trouble ... Time for some proper install on that

 

Yep, loose hardware in the machinery can cause headaches, for sure...

Cross thread points...

 

Looks like someone beat the **** outta that compensator nut.

 

Chains loose, 5/8-3/4" max if I'm doing one, you'll feel your adjustment as a bit of jerkiness at steady low speeds and you'll hear it more too.

 

What does that wire do?
I didn't even notice it!
How should I correct the situation?