harley clutches and open primaries?

Question

i want to switch to a open belt primary, from my enclosed chain , do i need to switch to a different clutch also?

Answer 1

you'll need a "dry" clutch to work with an open primary. check with the belt drive manufacturer to see what they recommend to be compatible.

Answer 2

Sporty primary chains are adjusted by a 'slipper/idler' since the transmission is a 'fixed' unit- unlike older big twins that could slide transmision forward or back for slack adjustment. The other factor is the primary engine sprocket number of teeth- do you have a drag racer low count of teeth or a high speed/economy larger number of teeth? Can't recall sporty engine sprocket counts- but on the old Els, FL, FLH series we had choice of 18 tooth to 25 or 26 tooth with 22 or 23 standards and a double roller design instead of the multi inner tooth sporty design. A minimal slack chain will have minimal power loss- so go with the least number of 'teeth' in primary chain and put up with shake from engine pulse, jerking on road starts- but dragracing will give you the extra 1/10 hp to back wheel. A longer chain will have more of a 'bend' at the adjuster and a bit more 'droop' - you may hear some rattle and hum but have less 'jerk' taking off, slow speed running after the first 'twitch' Life expectancy of longer chain is longer since individual pin wear is reduced- but the practical life expectancy increase is ot much. A longer chain will be a bit easier to install compared to shotest chains which may involve losening sprocket to install instead of simple drop adjuster, slip chain over sprockets and then lift adjuster to 1/2 inch top slack movement, snug adjuster. How many teeth do you have now and is your engine sprocket getting 'sawtoothed' needing replacement?

Answer 3

I am running a Rivera dry clutch on my pan. Best clutch I've ever had. I highly recommend it.

Answer 4

Yes, you need a "dry" clutch.
Your original is made to run in oil.