I hit a patch of sand/gravel coming to a stop and layed my 14 xl883n down today, resulting in a bent upwards shift lever shaft and I’m gonna attempt the repair myself and I have newbie question? Do I need to drain my oil in order to take off the primary cover to get to the shaft to swap it out??

thanks in advance
jeremy

 

Is it just the shift lever bent??? I haven't been on a Sporty in 12 yrs but I recall the shaft only coming out far enough for the lever to be installed / clear the cover. If it is just the lever, then no, just replace the lever.

 

I already bet the lever back, the shaft itself is bent upwards

 

Yes , you will need to drain the oil to remove the Primary Cover . The shift shaft is easy to remove and with care it could be straightened in a vice possibly with the application of some heat . Disclaimer : I am not an expert in this matter so you might want to price up a new or second hand shaft .

 

You have to pull the crank sprocket and clutch basket. This job requires tq wrenches, loctite, device to hold crank sprocket and several important torque specs when assembly starts. So yes, you need to drain the primary oil.

 

deleted

 

Yes, drain the PRIMARY oil. You know the engine oil is seperate and a different type, right? The first thing you need is a manual or I'm sure you will have problems.

 

My apologies . The shifter shaft is not so easy to remove . Unfortunately the clutch basket and crank sprocket have to come off first . Sorry about that.

 

In an emergency I straightened one by putting a tight fitting long socket over the shaft and used an extension bar to give me the leverage to bend it straight. Five minute fix, worked perfectly only had to remove the gear lever.