Where should I be placing the adjuster tool when checking the belt? Right in front of the plastic piece?

 

Customers may purchase gauge from an authorized Harley-
Davidson dealer.
3. To use the belt tension gauge:
a. Slide O-ring toward 0 lbs (0 kg) mark.
b. Fit cradle against bottom of belt half way between
transmission and rear wheel compensator sprockets.
See Figure 1-21.
c. While observing belt deflection through the window
on the debris deflector, push upward on **** until Oring
slides down to the 10 lbs (4.5 kg) mark.
NOTE
Next to the deflection window is a graduated scale. Each
graduation represents 1/8 in. (3.2 mm) of belt deflection.
4. Rotate rear wheel and measure deflection at different
spots on the belt.

 

Thanks, I just re-read my manual and found it too.

 

Do I measure from where the flat part of the belt hits the mark? I also see there is some that disagree if it should be checked on the ground or in the air.

 

Check rear belt deflection:
• As part of pre-ride inspection.
• At every scheduled service interval.
Check belt deflection:
• With transmission in neutral.
• At loosest spot in belt.
• With motorcycle at ambient temperature.
• With motorcycle upright and rear wheel in air or on jiffy
stand without rider or luggage.

 

Yes, I read that but one would think there would be a difference due to the difference in how much it will flex with the weight added or removed. Then some instructions also say to test with a rider. I had 3/8 deflection in the air, yet my belt whines when Im on the bike slowing down.

The instructions also do not indicate if the measurement is from the flat part or the tooth of the belt.

 

Are you sure it's the Drive Belt whining? Put the tranny in Neutral and pull in the clutch while slowing down and see if the whine goes away.
The only other thing I could think of is the belt pulleys are out of alignment. Check to make sure the belt is centered on the wheel pulley.
You can also try loosening the belt tension, or tighten it just a little and see if that makes it go away.
Good Luck!!

 

I've been adjusting my belts for years without the tension gauge. Had a coupon so bought the gauge and was surprised at how much 10lbs of pressure is. Harley really wants those belts tight.

 

I jack up the motorcycle and rotate the rear wheel to where there is the least deflection of the belt. Then lower the jack and remove it. It`s best to have someone sit on the motorcycle (per manual) or what I do is adjust to 1/2in. deflection with 10lbs. at the middle of the belt. I do it with a fish scale (went to buy the tool from the stealer and they didn`t have one). In my experience the deflection doesn`t change with a 280# person sitting on it. When all is done it`s so tight it`s scary, but it works. Just make sure to do it cold and take your time. Go to the stealer and check the slack on the belts there to get an idea.

 

So Dstockton did you have any problems running a loose belt or at least looser than spec? I believe the spec is to tight.