I've got a '71 Shovel that I'm restoring and have a problem. I noticed a decent amount of shaking when I had it out the first time this year and found the issue to be the chain being jerked around pretty rough. As the rear tire turned the chain would go slack to super tight. The chain was old so I have replaced it thinking it may be stretched unevenly and this would cause the tight / slack motion as it turned. Well, it is still happening. I've used a laser on the rear sprocket and it appears to be even all the way around, so this is ruled out (maybe - I need to take the chain off an rotate it to see if it is smooth). The transmission sprocket might be my issue, but I'm not too clear on how to get it out. Do I need to take out the whole transmission or can I get the the sprocket by taking apart the clutch? Or, if anyone has had this problem, maybe you can tell me what you found. Thanks!

 

The transmission sprocket is mounted onto the shaft of the main drive gear in the transmission. It is splined on to the shaft and held in place with a large diameter nut. You will have to remove the entire primary drive system to get to the sprocket. You can change the sprocket without removing the transmission. If you don't have a manual yet, I recommend getting the genuine, official Harley shop manual.

 

Primary chain/clutch basket inner primary have to come off Now you will see the chain sprocket on the trans 4th gear Inspect the sprocket for wear teeth to sharp at the points indicates worn sprocket&nbsp\\; There is a large nut that holds the sprocket on (reverse thread ) If the sprocket looks bad replace it Make sure you put the main drive spacer key ( looks like a small 90 degree metal key that fits into the spacer behind the sprocket) back where it belongs&nbsp\\; I also like to run a chain tensioner (LBV Engineering CCI P/N 080920 ) Makes the bike&nbsp\\; not jerk as much

 

I give up whats this \\\\ all about ?

 

sqdealgeorge,
I don't know what is going on but I see the extra characters all over the board.

 

If you change the chain also replace the sprockets.Are you sure the rear wheel to tranny is aligned?Rear wheel brgs in good shape?

 

Also check the swingarm bearings.&nbsp\\; They usually don't get the attention they require.

 

I have seen some aftermarket rear sprockets that were way out of round. I would check that before I tore it down.

 

+1 on the out of round rear spocket.