First time breaking into the primary to replace my belt. Once I replaced everything and torqued the compensator and clutch. When I go to install the new chain tensioner ( the old one had grooves in it) I cannot get the front bolt to install to save my life. It's like I don't have enough slack in my chain.
like I said, I am pretty green with motorcycles but I know my around tools and service manuals.. I can't figure this out. Any advice is appreciated.

 

While they original shoe is likely fine, they all get grooves, the new shoe is an upgrade to the old ones in that they maintain tanion better.

I assume the tensioner still has the little arms holds the shoe compressed.. In that case I'm not exactly sure what the issue is but I'd good back and check the work.. Some of may the the secondary springs are holding the front part of the shoe up.. I'd remove the tensioner and see if you can compress the shoe any by hand.. If so, you could slip it back in place with the rear bolt, tight just enough to hold the tensioner in place then pry the front up with a screwdriver..

Couple things to note.

The early tensioners had spacers that may not be necessary. Make sure that the shoe centers on the chain..
If you have the original alternator stator, you may want to replace it as they are known for having the riveted hub brake free.

 

Well, it all depends on WHAT Tensioner yer putting in it. OEM crap or aftermarket?

 

OEM crap.. like I said, I am pretty green at this. Do you have any suggestions for an aftermarket part? Have you heard of this problem before with the OEM chain tensioner?

 

Nothing wrong with OEM. Have 117000 on the original in my 07 EGC.

 

Do you happen to have a link to a video showing these spacers? I am still learning this bike so I'm not entirely familiar with all the parts quite yet. Best way of learning is to do it in my opinion though.

 

Post a pic of the original tensioner next to the new one..

 

 

Thank you to all who responded and tried to help me out. I fixed it and in the same moment realized I am an idiot..
so the problem wasn't the chain tensioner, it was the chain itself. When I torqued the compensator to spec. The chain wasn't above the lip of the case and became binded against the mating surface of the case. Once I broke the torque, backed off the bolt, lifted the chain, got some stronger wood, and made sure it was above the mating surface, it was like butter... so problem solved. For now atleast. Still have to install the rear sprocket and install bearings in a new wheel but I don't think that will be too difficult. If it is, I need to put down the tools.

 

Not sure if you are messing with the rear pulley but this may be something to consider when messing with the rear pulley..

https://www.hdforums.com/forum/dyna-...s-snapped.html