HD: Snapped the drive belt

[Headbanger]

Righto, Took my beloved bike out for a ride yesterday morning, Due to an unplanned snapping of the drive belt the ride turned into a walk. Luckily I only had to push her a few km's as Wanganui is a small town. Plus of course the smug looks and comments from the 2 fat ugly bitches outside oogies cafe brightened my day no end.

Never fear I managed to get the bike stashed, and rang up Anza to enquire about a replacement belt.

$430 motherfucking dollars, and it would be sourced from motherfucking Australia. FUCK ME, They dont bother to hold stock in the country of the most prone to fucking out and important item on the damn bikes. Its not like you can get by with a little bit of superglue and some wire, When shes snapped then thats it, Off the road.

So, Plan B, The internets,w00t w00t.All prices sourced from M&M Cycles

OEM Harley belt-$165.75USD
Dayco Panther drive belt $122.09USD
Gates HTD PolyChain Belt $143.19USD

So, I have a plan, Even with the current exchange rate having a lot in common with rape and pillage at a nunnery I can still save $140 dollars.

Of course, we all know the truth about the cheapest part....

https://www.mandmcycles.com/homepage.htm Bought off them a number of times, Communication is a bit crap but price's are good.

I sent them some abuse about not confirming an order and they wrote back some shit about Jesus, How everyone is blessed, Bless Harley, Bless me,bless you, bless the road..... Made me fucking laugh.

[98tls]

Game bastards you lot,my belt holds my jeans up nicely but you lot use it as a drive chain.:sweatdrop

[MaxB]

Maybe a dumb question.

Have you tried other NZ harley dealers? Or some non-official Harley dealers like we have up here? They may have one kicking around on a shelf or can get you via the back door.

[YellowDog]

To not have such a crucial HD part is madness.

Go shoot (please don't) your local dealer.

[Headbanger]

Maybe a dumb question.

Have you tried other NZ harley dealers? Or some non-official Harley dealers like we have up here? They may have one kicking around on a shelf or can get you via the back door.

Nope, My Bad, I should have at least made contact with American Speed and spares, I'd bet they would have had a belt in stock. No chance of getting anything locally though.

[cynna]

and unless you fit it yourself there will be a few $$ labour involved - swingarm has to be removed to fit it...

[Headbanger]

I'm looking forward to fitting it, Never done one before. Don't have a manual.Should be good.:crazy:

[awayatc]

how many kms did the belt last?...
sort of wondering if i should get myself a spare belt.
Got a manual though...
Good luck

[Bonez]

I'm looking forward to fitting it, Never done one before. Don't have a manual.Should be good.:crazy:PM Horse he has only recently replaced his one. Second his bike had needed in a 3 month period. Has a blog about doing his, a good step by step link on how to go about it from and the tools needed.

[oldguy]

Had the same problem when i broke my drive belt on the Buell, AMPS didn't have one, but would order one in there next shipment, (6 week wait,) f**k that
rang around Dealers, Wellington Motorcycles had one, $327 I got that landed in Auckland, $10 bucks cheaper, than if I had of got it of the shelf at AMPS.
The Buell is F**kin easy to change a belt, can do it in 10 min.:niceone:but I think maybe a good idea to have a spare belt.

[popelli]

regardless of what it costs to replace the belt and how long it takes to change it, it only takes one stone and you have to repeat the entire procedure

however for a lot less money you can do the obvious and fit a chain drive

easier to change gearing
easier to change chains
easier to fit wider tyres

fit a scottoiler and maintenance is about the same as a belt, however the chain will possibly last longer

downside is that the oil fling may be messy - but then so is half the bike disassembled to fit a new belt

[Horse]

Yeah, I finished replacing the one on my Ultra two weeks ago, hell of a lot easier with the factory service manual ($120 from ANZA). It's a bit time consuming, on the FLHT the hardest part is getting the belt past the swingarm pivot, not sure how your FXD will compare in that department. I can lend you the primary locking tool Bonez made for me if you need one.

I'm a bit ambivalent about the whole belt/chain thing, on the one hand if I have to do another belt inside of a year I may just set fire to the f-ing bike (not really, but....) and am tempted to put a chain conversion kit on, but on the other hand it's been suggested to me that if they do break a chain they tend to whack holes in the primary case.

I am starting to be convinced that HD's great belt drive theory, which works well on all those asphalt and concrete US roads, isn't so hot in NZ with our endless chip seal. I did some research a couple of weeks back just exploring the options, chain conversion kits run about US$300-$400 - that's chain + sprockets, they pretty much just bolt on.

[xknuts]

I got a stone in the belt on my Victory Vegas. Kept riding while I landed a spare.
Took all of 15 minutes! No wheel removal, just belt guard (Top & Bottom) & front drive cover, :done: LOVE IT!

[Big Dave]

I've broken a belt. In the driveway at Kiwi Rider. 30,000km.

I could break three more next week and I'd still be ahead of looking after dirty ferkin' chain.

I now keep one in stock on my bookshelf.

Changing on a Buell is a 30minute job. Hogs is harder.

[Horse]

I got a stone in the belt on my Victory Vegas. Kept riding while I landed a spare.
Took all of 15 minutes! No wheel removal, just belt guard (Top & Bottom) & front drive cover, :done: LOVE IT!

Wheel removal? Hah, I'd be laughing if it was just wheel removal. Wheel removal I could probably do on the side of the road.

Try completely removing the primary and partially retracting the swingarm pivot shaft (the same shaft that is seized into the transmission case on most bikes more than a few years old, apparently), then putting the belt on, then putting it all back together. It's a $1000 job (including the $300 for the belt) for trained mechanics who do them every day.

When I rode into ANZA on my newly re-belted Ultra I had to explain my overwhelming sense of accomplishment to the salesman that had sold me the bike last year. When I told him that I'd just done a belt replacement myself he gave me a look like I'd said I'd just ridden in from Mars.

[awayatc]

Good on ya Horse....Maintenance in general and on Harleys in particular does not seem to get done by owners anymore...
I got the Harley manual, and will order a belt "just in case"...

[popelli]

Wheel removal? Try completely removing the primary and partially retracting the swingarm pivot shaft (the same shaft that is seized into the transmission case on most bikes more than a few years old, apparently), then putting the belt on, then putting it all back together. It's a $1000 job (including the $300 for the belt) for trained mechanics who do them every day.



10 min job on my electraglide to change the chain

[Omega1]

Faaark! I wish I'd never read this thread you Guys are givin me the shits, oh well at least the Buell sounds easier to change out...$327NZD for a replacement belt though???

[Horse]

10 min job on my electraglide to change the chain

Heh, don't rub it in, that's cruel.

Seriously though, have you had a chain break on your 'glide? I've recently been told horror stories about chains breaking under load and punching holes in the primary case.

[Big Dave]

I had a deep and meaningful with the 'Platform Director VRSC' and said c'mon Robert - no bull - how long do the belts last?

We have had some that have picked up a rock leaving the dealer. that is very rare - but can happen. we have seen some that have lasted 250,000 miles and are still going strong. that is kinda rare too. We like the belts and are excited by their constant improvement.

[peasea]

I had a deep and meaningful with the 'Platform Director VRSC' and said c'mon Robert - no bull - how long do the belts last?

We have had some that have picked up a rock leaving the dealer. that is very rare - but can happen. we have seen some that have lasted 250,000 miles and are still going strong. that is kinda rare too. We like the belts and are excited by their constant improvement.

You could ask; how long is a piece of string?

My FXR belt had a small stone hole when I bought it at 47,000kms, I spat the belt at something like 96,000. If the hole or similar damage is in the middle, it's not too much of an issue for a sensible rider. If it's near the edge or you love tearing away from the lights then it probably won't last too long.

Conversely the 2000 W/g I bought last year had a new belt at about 15,000 due to rock injestion.

I got a belt for the FXR from Dave at HDRS in Gore (he's easy to deal with and knows his HD's) and it was plenty cheaper than eleswhere. I think the only 'special' tools I needed were a socket large enough to fit the drive sprocket nut and another for the compensator nut and a tool to lock the primary drive and clutch basket sprockets together. The deep socket for the drive sprocket (coz you have to go over the gearbox output shaft) I made from a normal socket by having it cut in the middle, then I added a few inches of steam pipe. A three-quarter drive bar and bingo!

[Bonez]

Faaark! I wish I'd never read this thread you Guys are givin me the shits, oh well at least the Buell sounds easier to change out...$327NZD for a replacement belt though???On all sporty engine based base cikles belt replacement is easier.

How'd you get on Headbanger?

Cheers guys for sharing your "real world" NZ experiances re belts btw.

[Headbanger]

Belt isn't due for a few days yet, I ordered it from America just before making this thread.

Having read all through the replies I'm thinking I'll get me old mate the talented mechanic to do the work.....

[Bonez]

When I rode into ANZA on my newly re-belted Ultra I had to explain my overwhelming sense of accomplishment to the salesman that had sold me the bike last year. When I told him that I'd just done a belt replacement myself he gave me a look like I'd said I'd just ridden in from Mars.Must have been those pointy ears. You've got my eyes watering lad. Good on ya. You've every right to feel proud.

[peasea]

Belt isn't due for a few days yet, I ordered it from America just before making this thread.

Having read all through the replies I'm thinking I'll get me old mate the talented mechanic to do the work.....

If neither of you have a socket deep enough for the drive sprocket, sing out. It'd only cost a few bucks to mail it up.

[Headbanger]

If neither of you have a socket deep enough for the drive sprocket, sing out. It'd only cost a few bucks to mail it up.


Thanks for the offer, I'll keep it in mind.

[oldguy]

from what i gather, most damage to drive belts are related to stones or small rocks..Mmmmmmm.... let me think, I know why don't the manufactures fit fully enclosed belt guards, add bling to your ride haha:rofl::rofl::rofl:

Or sweep the roads. and we there are road works, have a lane that has been swept just wide enough for a bike. ;)

Maybe should just HTFU

[peasea]

Or sweep the roads.



Yes they bloody should! Then dry them out after rain and fill the potholes with the crushed remains of stupid people in automobiles.

Oh for the perfect world.

Nice bike, not.

[scumdog]

Wheel removal? Hah, I'd be laughing if it was just wheel removal. Wheel removal I could probably do on the side of the road.

Try completely removing the primary and partially retracting the swingarm pivot shaft (the same shaft that is seized into the transmission case on most bikes more than a few years old, apparently), then putting the belt on, then putting it all back together. It's a $1000 job (including the $300 for the belt) for trained mechanics who do them every day.

When I rode into ANZA on my newly re-belted Ultra I had to explain my overwhelming sense of accomplishment to the salesman that had sold me the bike last year. When I told him that I'd just done a belt replacement myself he gave me a look like I'd said I'd just ridden in from Mars.

Cost me about $700 just over a year ago on my FXDX at McIver and Veitch in Dunedin, they did a good clean job and well groomed the bike too.

[Big Dave]

You could ask; how long is a piece of string?



I was expecting a 'maximum service life'.

They used to recommend replacement intervals on the early ones - I think.

[Pedrostt500]

One of the Guys I work with converted his HD to chain Drive, Because he said the belts were a pain in the arse to fit, seemed to make sence.

[peasea]

Cost me about $700 just over a year ago on my FXDX at McIver and Veitch in Dunedin, they did a good clean job and well groomed the bike too.

Me and a mate did it in an afternoon on his Wideglide for the price of the parts and a couple of bourbons.

700? Eek.

Mind you, the salary you're on etc etc.........

[peasea]

One of the Guys I work with converted his HD to chain Drive, Because he said the belts were a pain in the arse to fit, seemed to make sence.

I think many would see the sense in it, especially if you've tweaked the engine, like to go drag racing and maybe do a few dirt roads. Having done many, many years with chains and getting my hands dirty for decades, I'm enjoying the belts.

To each his own.

[peasea]

I was expecting a 'maximum service life'.

They used to recommend replacement intervals on the early ones - I think.

It's not unusual to get 100,000kms out of a well looked after/adjusted belt. I was talking to a guy on Saturday who has 70,000kms on his belt and it looks immac.

A lot of it is down to good luck and good maint'.

[ajturbo]

buellBabe and I brought a spare one each when the $ was around 80c, i have used my spare, but i still have BB's just incase, hers tend to last till they rot... lol

[popelli]

Heh, don't rub it in, that's cruel.

Seriously though, have you had a chain break on your 'glide? I've recently been told horror stories about chains breaking under load and punching holes in the primary case.

no but I had a belt shred all of its teeth and become an elastic band

[peasea]

no but I had a belt shred all of its teeth and become an elastic band

They make great chokers for the missus huh?:whistle:

[Ocean1]

from what i gather, most damage to drive belts are related to stones or small rocks..Mmmmmmm.... let me think, I know why don't the manufactures fit fully enclosed belt guards, add bling to your ride haha:rofl::rofl::rofl:

Or sweep the roads. and we there are road works, have a lane that has been swept just wide enough for a bike. ;)

Maybe should just HTFU

Contractors (not councils or whatever authority applies) are directly responsible for any damage incured to private property (from normal use of the road) as a result of the work they do.

Contractors get pinged by the councils all the time for shit like "grass not growing on groundworks job No#398472"... in mid winter. So I've got some sympathy for them.

Nonetheless, I'm aware of three belts having broken as a direct result of work done south of the Rimutaka hill last year, may well have been more. So the REAL cost of the work done is at least several thousand dollars more than what the authorities or the contractors paid for. We did. Might be hard to prove, but I reckon it's about time we started demanding the relevant councils direct the contractor to reimburse us.


I was expecting a 'maximum service life'.

They used to recommend replacement intervals on the early ones - I think.

Later belts look similar, but the design is somewhat improved, (belatedly, most other industries have been using the more advanced belts for years). Older belts did have a recommended service life, so do the new designs, it's just that the life expectancy of the new ones, (in the right environment) exceeds the service life of the bike itself.

[scumdog]

Me and a mate did it in an afternoon on his Wideglide for the price of the parts and a couple of bourbons.

700? Eek.

Mind you, the salary you're on etc etc.........

T'was a time thing.

Wanted to go to the Magpie Madness, only had four days from when the belt was damaged until the M.M. and I had no time free from work.

Hence bit the bullet and had it done for me.

Any other time I would have done it myself.

[peasea]

T'was a time thing.

Wanted to go to the Magpie Madness, only had four days from when the belt was damaged until the M.M. and I had no time free from work.

Hence bit the bullet and had it done for me.

Any other time I would have done it myself.

Shuuuuuure ya would.
Those fingernails of yours are way too dainty.

[Horse]

Me and a mate did it in an afternoon on his Wideglide for the price of the parts and a couple of bourbons.

Looking at that picture, it looks like it's a bit easier than on the touring bikes, as the frame/swingarm interaction is a bit different. On the FLHs it's a major PITA.

Some days I love my bike, some days I wonder what they're smoking. :)

[peasea]

Looking at that picture, it looks like it's a bit easier than on the touring bikes, as the frame/swingarm interaction is a bit different. On the FLHs it's a major PITA.

Some days I love my bike, some days I wonder what they're smoking. :)

Milwaukee; where's the nearest plantation?
I hear ya, but even the W/g isn't a walk in the park, it's just that we had the gear, work well together and the girls kept us going on sammies. Steve and I have been spannering together for over 30 years and when things go wrong, we make them right.

In such a situation either one of us is watching what the other does, where the next move is, which spanner/socket will be needed and it's waiting.

Combinations of human beings like that don't come long every day; we value our friendship and our ability to work together as one on our motorcycles.

[Flip]

My first belt lasted about 40k km before it was half torn by a stone. Got me back from the west coast with no problems.
It took me 3 hours to get it out and 4 hours to get it back in. On a Road King the swing arm has to come out as well. The local dealer had a belt in stock and it wasn't too pricy.
About the only problem I had was getting the compensator nut off, man it was tight even with the application of a few btu's.

[popelli]

About the only problem I had was getting the compensator nut off, man it was tight even with the application of a few btu's.

thats what compressors and rattle guns are for

[peasea]

thats what compressors and rattle guns are for

Flip has my sympathy though. Sometimes they're freakin' tight, I broke two half-inch drive power bars on a mates 85 FXWG (before they became FXDWG's) so I bought a 3/4" bar and socket, problem solved. Some of those impact guns are great though and compressors are cheap as chips these days for a home-handyman sort of thing. I think I paid less than two hundred.

Plus: there are some great electric/cordless guns out there now with plenty of punch. Mind you, the compressor is a handy device for the workshop, we use it to wash the bikes down, then dry off as well as keeping a close eye on the tyre pressures.

Brum, brum...............brrrrrrr

[buellbabe]

buellBabe and I brought a spare one each when the $ was around 80c, i have used my spare, but i still have BB's just incase, hers tend to last till they rot... lol

Is that right???

over 120,000kms and I'm on belt #4.

1st one collected a stone and cos we were touring and had a day to spare in Blenheim just rang AMPS (and bugger me! they had one in stock!!!!!!!) and they couriered it. The belt probably would have been ok but didn't wanna risk it...
Piss of piss to change on the Buell...oh and all you later model Buell owners have got MY model 'the mighty X1' to thank for that brilliant bit of design.
That 2nd belt was an after market and snapped within a short time.
Went back to official HD brand and that one lasted quite a while til one day while chasing an Aprilia...snapped that one too. The belt that replaced that one has been going strong for many many kms now.

But as far as their general availability goes, yep I have also said rude words when not one single dealer in the country has had one in stock...

Thats why I have a spare...

[Headbanger]

IBut as far as their general availability goes, yep I have also said rude words when not one single dealer in the country has had one in stock...


I wasn't overly concerned, a little surprised they would be that useless but I avoid them at every opportunity anyway so not being able to give them my money was fine by me.

[popelli]

But as far as their general availability goes, yep I have also said rude words when not one single dealer in the country has had one in stock...

Thats why I have a spare...

I have been riding harleys for over 20 years

Official dealers are the last place I go for parts now as they never have what I need in stock and its quicker, easier and cheaper to order parts over the internet than wait for the dealers to get the parts in

[BMWST?]

are the belts specific to harley or are they a std drive belt.....I have no idea how to find that out.

[98tls]

are the belts specific to harley or are they a std drive belt.....I have no idea how to find that out. Specific...................

[BMWST?]

Specific...................

of course would be far to easy wouldnt it!

[Ocean1]

Specific...................

Made by Goodyear to a 14mm pitch ISO standard profile. HD/Buell recommend this particular belt, claiming it's a spec unique to their product.

'Course they're not saying what particular spec' makes it unique, and the fact is many other companies manufacture belts that claim to equal or better the Goodyear/HD item's performance.

Many of these competing manufacturer's belts are... a "lower" spec', they meet the dimensional standards and will therefore fit the pulleys perfectly well, but the materials and construction are less well suited to the application.

I've no doubt, however that some of them are at least a match, and it's a technology that's still improving, almost year by year.

[BMWST?]

Made by Goodyear to a 14mm pitch ISO standard profile. HD/Buell recommend this particular belt, claiming it's a spec unique to their product.

'Course they're not saying what particular spec' makes it unique, and the fact is many other companies manufacture belts that claim to equal or better the Goodyear/HD item's performance.

Many of these competing manufacturer's belts are... a "lower" spec', they meet the dimensional standards and will therefore fit the pulleys perfectly well, but the materials and construction are less well suited to the application.

I've no doubt, however that some of them are at least a match, and it's a technology that's still improving, almost year by year.
Are the BMW belts also a STD dimension(the f800 road bikes)

[buellbabe]

Good post Ocean... I have had personal experience of an inferior belt, I now buy thru a Stateside aftermarket Buell site and am completely satisfied.

Another point to consider is the style of riding a person does... for example my ex spent a LOT of time on the back wheel and he went thru belts like nobodies business!!!!

Also, its VERY important to have the correct tension, and if ya can't get it right right then its better to err on the side of being too loose ...

[Ocean1]

Are the BMW belts also a STD dimension(the f800 road bikes)

Dude I don't know, but I'd be very surprised if they weren't.

If you call in to any industrial transmissions supplier they'll have a quick measure and probably be able to tell you what they are.


I have had personal experience of an inferior belt, I now buy thru a Stateside aftermarket Buell site and am completely satisfied.

Yup, no question the OE part is one of the best. It's just not the only suitable option, and it's typically several times the price of belts of comparable performance.

To be fair Buell manage their parts prices well, (right down to the end-user) and I've found them to be priced not entirely unreasonably considering the low stock turnover compared to industrial suppliers. HD seem to simply add a zero, 'cause they can.

[sinned]

So it appears that HD owners wait until the belt snaps. Good thing they don't use them in aeroplanes with similar maintenance procedures. I think I will stay with a chain drive bike - they wear out but don't fail at the most inconvenient moments.

[Bonez]

All fixed now HB?

[scumdog]

So it appears that HD owners wait until the belt snaps. Good thing they don't use them in aeroplanes with similar maintenance procedures. I think I will stay with a chain drive bike - they wear out but don't fail at the most inconvenient moments.

Oh yes they do!

That last HD I had with a chain did just that.

And no, it was not an old worn out number either...

[Headbanger]

All fixed now HB?

Sadly....no.

As I mentioned in the first post the company I ordered off don't always bother to send an order confirmation, so seeing as I was yet to receive any contact from them I just kept an eye out for a courier, Any day now I was thinking, Any day now....It must be coming today.

Then I get an e-mail just yesterday from them saying they were processing my order.

LMFAO.

I'll run their track and trace and see where it is...


Your item left the United States from ISC CHICAGO IL (USPS) at 8:50 PM on March 25, 2009. Information, if available, is updated every evening. Please check again later.


Won't be this week then.:doh:

[buellbabe]

Obviously its too late for this order but ya might wanna check out LakeShoreHarley for future internet orders...

[Pixie]

Heh, don't rub it in, that's cruel.

Seriously though, have you had a chain break on your 'glide? I've recently been told horror stories about chains breaking under load and punching holes in the primary case.
160 hp + litre bikes break their chains all the time,so a 60 hp Hardley is in real danger :rofl:

[Headbanger]

160 hp + litre bikes break their chains all the time,so a 60 hp Hardley is in real danger :rofl:


If you have ever tried to shear a metal object you would understand its torque that does it, not revs.

[NOWOOL]

How many K's did you have on the belt before it snapped?

[Headbanger]

No idea, It was on the bike when I bought her, Looking at it there is no sign of wear but I can quite clearly see where a stone has damaged the belt prior to it breaking.

And I have been up quite a few gravel roads, and the 3 foot deep layer of stone chips the monkeys lay on the road wouldn't help either.

[Blatman]

Jeez, after reading all this I'm glad I've got a shaft drive! No maintenance except for an oil change every few years and that's with 150+hp and truck loads of torque. Are no Harleys made with shafts?

[Headbanger]

Righto, Belt arrived today, Me old mate isn't available to give me a hand if I done it myself (which kills that plan, I know my limitations), Me other mate the mechanic is busy with other things and laying low.

So, Its booked into Pro Cycles, It was going that way before the belt snapped anyway as I wanted her put on the dyno, so now its a case of 2 birds with one stone.

[rok-the-boat]

If you ride a Harley then you need to stock up on spares or the shops will strand you. When I had mine in Korea I had a spare everything, including a belt. I ordered online from the USA and they arrived pretty quickly. Be on the ball and look after yourself - no one else will.

And have you tried fitting the belt - what a nightmare!

ANd stay away from gravel roads - they will chew your belt to bits. That being said, I did over 10,000 with a half stone chewed up belt, no worries. But that's why I had the spare... but not hte kind of item you can change at the side of the road. I replaced mine when I did my clutch.

[bsasuper]

.So, Its booked into Pro Cycles, It was going that way before the belt snapped anyway as I wanted her put on the dyno, so now its a case of 2 birds with one stone.

Invest the money for the dyno run on a spare belt instead,pointless dynoing a harley lump unless you really really want a piece of paper that says 90hp (a good one)

[paulmac]

Try Speed n custom in wellington for spares. Good people and good service

[peasea]

Invest the money for the dyno run on a spare belt instead,pointless dynoing a harley lump unless you really really want a piece of paper that says 90hp (a good one)

I would say that dyno'ing anything is worth it to obtain the best reslults from any given combination, even a stock machine can benefit from minor changes. So many bikes (and cars) are set up lean from the factory to assist in meeting tight pollution regs. Getting back to a correct air/fuel ratio can reap huge benefits without affecting mileage to a great extent and in some cases it can actually be improved.

It's not always about having a slip of paper to obtain bragging rights. I'd much rather have a sweet runner, working correctly for its application, than a big hp machine that's a sack of shit in the real world. Having built countless performance engines I can tell you that it's difficult talking people OUT of lumpy cams and big carbs. Less is more (in most cases) unless you're going to dedicate the machine to track use. And, the principles are the same for any naturally aspirated four stroke engine.

I say dyno it, but don't set your final output expectations too high, just look for the 'sweet spot'.

[Headbanger]

Invest the money for the dyno run on a spare belt instead,pointless dynoing a harley lump unless you really really want a piece of paper that says 90hp (a good one)



The reason for sticking her on a dyno is to to get her tuned as well as possible, Not to get a meaningless read-out.It turns out she starved for air-flow and was flooding when opened right up.



Yeah, what a waste of time finding that out was, I should have got a spare belt instead....

[bsasuper]

... she starved for air-flow and was flooding when opened right up...

I sold my harley 5yrs ago because they cant even get it right at the factory.

[popelli]

I sold my harley 5yrs ago because they cant even get it right at the factory.

No they don't get it right emission and sound leglislation kill them - but that can be rectified easily

a decent exhaust, mild cam, decent carb and remove all the emission controls and you have a bike running like it was designed to be run

If you stick to a standard unmodified bike you will not be that impressed - changes like the above usually net 10- 20% more power

[Headbanger]

Rghto, still without my bike, But at least I have spent a lot of money. And its pretty much my fault.

Actually I haven't got the bill yet and I bet its going to be massive.

Anyway, when I bought my carb from the USA I purchased the cheap option, It came with no mounting hardware or air cleaner etc. Which means when it was installed the lads doing it had to scrounge through their substantial stash of parts and use whatever they could find(and I was told this was a shit idea at the time in no uncertain terms, I just figured they were lazy). It turns out a couple of items weren't suitable (especially the air filter element which looks perfectly clean but won't actually allow air to pass through it) and this is what caused the bike to starve for air, The kicker is this was found out by order of elimination only after the bike insuisted on flooding. This translates directly into money per hour.

Secondly I instructed them to make the bike quieter, Turns out she just drops her arse when either the intake or the outtake is messed with, The new baffle robs her of 15HP, so after all that time rebuilding the baffle its been thrown away and a "competition" Vance and Hines item fitted.

Ching ching.

HP wise I'm told a stock evo reads 55HP at the back wheel on their dyno, Mine reads 75HP at the moment, when the baffle I had made is fitted it drops down to 60HP.:crazy:

[Bonez]

Goodness you're right royally forked ;). How do the torque figures equate?

[awayatc]

yep, forking out lots money....

I don't own a fork, so I just dripfeed....

[Headbanger]

Muhahaha...fork jokes.:clap::clap::clap:

Anyways, I pick up the bike on Friday, Looking forward to it, I actually thought the bike ran very strong apart from the flat spot over 160km/h, So it should be interesting.

[peasea]

The reason for sticking her on a dyno is to to get her tuned as well as possible, Not to get a meaningless read-out.It turns out she starved for air-flow and was flooding when opened right up.



Yeah, what a waste of time finding that out was, I should have got a spare belt instead....

There you go...see my post (#70) and I love beinag able to say "I told you so". Glad you did it dude.

[buellbabe]

I re-read your post and agree. I have just had my bike on the dyno and now she is purring... KTLs diagnostic software won't do any bikes pre-2000 and they were scratching their heads unable to figure out why she was running like a dog.
Took her to TripleZee in Manurewa, he's got the primo software and a dyno...turns out the TPS was waaaaaaaay out and that was stuffing everything up.

Back to parts availability...ordered a throttle cable from AMPS 3 weeks ago. Was assured it went on that weeks order and would be here the following week or the tuesday after Easter at the latest. Was also assured I would get a ph call.

Still waiting...

Good job I remembered past experiences with AMPS. Cos in the meantime I have scored one from Wellington. :yes:

Thanks a bunch AMPS. :angry:


Oh and BTW Headbanger...happy for ya mate, that you have got your beasty sorted !!

[rosie631]

That 2nd belt was an after market and snapped within a short time.
Went back to official HD brand and that one lasted quite a while

Just found a hole in my belt so thought I'd best get organised and get a replacement sourced before it gos ping. Local HD shop $437. Found aftermarket one in custom chrome catalogue for $180. But reading buellbabes experience with that and given the amount of labour involved on the HD i don't know if it's worth trying to save a few bucks with a cheaper one. Has anyone else had any experiences with after market belts not lasting??

[BIG DOUG]

I have had good luck using BDL belts,but having said that I have alway found the hd belts to be very good and as you say it is a bit of a mission to do and you wouldn't like to do it twice.

[AD345]

Just got back from the Make My Day charity run.

Aside from a couple of bins in the wet the only breakdown that I'm aware of - was a Harley snapping its drive belt


Fortunately it happened right at the end of the ride

[buellbabe]

As far as the aftermarket belts go...well in all fairness that was 7yrs ago and standards have improved a lot since then but if you want the genuine article then don't go thru a kiwi dealer...they put a 200% markup on stuff. Source it yaself from the states.
I have already recommended this place and I'll say it again...check out this shop.

They have a HUGE PARTS WAREHOUSE!

http://www.lakeshoreharley.com/

[rosie631]

Thanks for that. Will have a look. Hopefully have a few more miles left on mine so will shop around.

[rosie631]

As far as the aftermarket belts go...well in all fairness that was 7yrs ago and standards have improved a lot since then but if you want the genuine article then don't go thru a kiwi dealer...they put a 200% markup on stuff. Source it yaself from the states.
I have already recommended this place and I'll say it again...check out this shop.

They have a HUGE PARTS WAREHOUSE!

http://www.lakeshoreharley.com/

Hi. Have checked out this website but i can't seem to find any links or e-mail address to contact them for a quote. The only thing I can see is a link to their ebay store. But I'm thinking you can buy direct from them without going through ebay?? Any info? Thanks

[buellbabe]

They used to have a separate online shopping facility but have changed the way they do things however the 'ebay store' is still them...just a different setup.

[Headbanger]

Finally got my bike back, Had to go get it with a trailer. Took 7 freakin hours.

The bill, fuck, whoa, fuck fuck fuck, man, They slashed and burned a heap off the bill, And it still cost so much money I have refused to tell the wife what the total was, and I had to borrow the cash to pay for it, I think it went on the dyno 8 times, went through 4 baffles, They stopped filling out the job card over a week ago as totalling up the man hours was hitting the roof.

On the plus side they kept me on the know every step of the way, and they are the third company I have had tune it because it has never been right, and tune it they did, she's a new bike powerwise.

Damn me for opening the can of worms by asking for the baffle to be redesigned....

Anyway, I'm going for another ride.

[awayatc]

Headbanger you started the wrong group.....
You forking out to much money,
try founding TOG or tool owners group....

[Headbanger]

I have some sweeeeeet tools, In the past I have used them to devalue and detune my bikes to great effect.

I find its cheaper in the long run to pay the professionals.

[Bonez]

Once the missus finds out you're right royally forked ;). Get some flowers and choccies asap.

[scumdog]

Dang and double dang!!

Took rear wheel off CBb (normajeanes) Sporty to fit a new hoop and had a look at the drive-belt as we had noticed a small volcano where a rock or sommat had been pushed through when caught between the belt and sprocket.

Now wish I hadn't cos about 6" away was a tear running from the inside edge towards the centre:( - dunno how long it had been like that for but not risking using the belt again so off it came.

I noticed that the casing immediatley beside and above the front sprocket had two-three reasonable sized stones with tar on (like they had been pinged up going through road-works) sitting in a little 'valley' - all set to feed onto the top of the sprocket just where the belt starts to go over it.:crazy:

So I recommend all Sporty owners have a check on there bikes for this, I'm going to see if I can make a sheild of some sort to stop this happening.

BTW: Both holes in the belt were on the side nearest the swing-arm which would match with the stones running into the belt from that side as per above.

Now to do some belt shopping, shoot, TWO belts in about 20 months..:angry2:

[buellbabe]

OH POOS!

Yeah those tar covered tiny stones are a bugger. I clean my bike regularly and look for culprits like that!

hey does the Sporty have a belt guard?

[scumdog]

OH POOS!

Yeah those tar covered tiny stones are a bugger. I clean my bike regularly and look for culprits like that!

hey does the Sporty have a belt guard?

Yeah, the factory one.

But somehow it seems the stones (which weren't that tiny) ping forwards and end up as per my previous post.

[rosie631]

Is there another name for the belt. Have got two local prices 440 & 470. Trying to search on internet for something cheaper. But on the store sites when I search drive belt they bring up guards, kits etc but no actual drive belts. I'm hopeless at searching stuff, I never seem to find any decent sites but i'm not sure what I'm doing wrong. Please help someone.

[ajturbo]

email these people.. they are great!!!
/www.americansportbike.com

or even phone them.. i have and they cannot do enough for you!!!!

[rosie631]

Was planning on keeping riding until I can get this done in about a month. Reading the posts it sounds like I could be lucky and will last the distance or it could go anytime. Now I'm wondering if I should just take it off the road until the belt gets done. Just wondering if I keep riding and it snaps at high speed is it likely to damage the bike. Or is it likely to cause me to lose control? What about if I'm overtaking? I'm assuming that when it snaps I will just suddenly lose momentum?? Can anyone who has had one snap while riding tell me what actally happens?

[Ocean1]

Was planning on keeping riding until I can get this done in about a month. Reading the posts it sounds like I could be lucky and will last the distance or it could go anytime. Now I'm wondering if I should just take it off the road until the belt gets done. Just wondering if I keep riding and it snaps at high speed is it likely to damage the bike. Or is it likely to cause me to lose control? What about if I'm overtaking? I'm assuming that when it snaps I will just suddenly lose momentum?? Can anyone who has had one snap while riding tell me what actally happens?

Teh front wheel suddenly and unexpectedly drops to te ground, and teh engine hits teh rev limiter. After a couple of futile pokes at teh shifter the penny drops, you look behind to see a long black thing in the middle of teh road.

[ajturbo]

Teh front wheel suddenly and unexpectedly drops to te ground, and teh engine hits teh rev limiter. After a couple of futile pokes at teh shifter the penny drops, you look behind to see a long black thing in the middle of teh road.
yep.... that about sums up what happened to me....

i think that metal is a little stronger than a kevlar belt?

[Ocean1]

yep.... that about sums up what happened to me....

i think that metal is a little stronger than a kevlar belt?

Nope. Generally Kevlar has a higher tensile strength than steel, either by mass or by cross sectional area.

The fibres, however don't stand being bent over too small a radius, which is what happens when you get a FUCKING GREAT ROCK stuck under the belt from some lame-arse second-rate chipseal bodge-up repair job.

[peasea]

Nope. Generally Kevlar has a higher tensile strength than steel, either by mass or by cross sectional area.

The fibres, however don't stand being bent over too small a radius, which is what happens when you get a FUCKING GREAT ROCK stuck under the belt from some lame-arse second-rate chipseal bodge-up repair job.

Yeah! Whatever happened to roadsweepers?

[Bonez]

Yeah! Whatever happened to roadsweepers?They've been rebadged and available from any HD dealership:whistle:

[ajturbo]

Nope. Generally Kevlar has a higher tensile strength than steel, either by mass or by cross sectional area.

The fibres, however don't stand being bent over too small a radius, which is what happens when you get a FUCKING GREAT ROCK stuck under the belt from some lame-arse second-rate chipseal bodge-up repair job.
i meant when a belt slapping a metal engine casing...
as compared to a chain snapping and going through the same casing....

but i didn't know that Kevlar was stronger!!!

[peasea]

They've been rebadged and available from any HD dealership:whistle:
How fuckin' original..............:bash:

[peasea]

i meant when a belt slapping a metal engine casing...
as compared to a chain snapping and going through the same casing....

but i didn't know that Kevlar was stronger!!!

Steel isn't quite the king it used to be.

I think it was Batfink who used the catch phrase "my wings are like a shield of steel" and it just wouldn't sound the same yelling "my wings are like a shield of Kevlar" would it?

[rosie631]

email these people.. they are great!!!
/www.americansportbike.com

or even phone them.. i have and they cannot do enough for you!!!!

Hi, thanks for that. Tried them but they only do Buell not HD. Also emailed mandmcycles. They gave me a price of $211USD including postage. Converts to 370NZ so not really saving enough to warrant it. Will see if I can find somewhere in NZ a bit cheaper otherwise have to bite the bullet and pay the $430. :doh:

[Headbanger]

My belt ended up costing $259NZD including delivery.

And going by the prices I posted in the first post in this thread the OEM HD belt would cost $290NZD plus delivery, Which would be a saving of about $100NZD.

Don't know how much you get paid an hour but to me at least that's well worth the effort.

[peasea]

My belt ended up costing $259NZD including delivery.

And going by the prices I posted in the first post in this thread the OEM HD belt would cost $290NZD plus delivery, Which would be a saving of about $100NZD.

Don't know how much you get paid an hour but to me at least that's well worth the effort.

That's good going dude. I know where to come for my next belt.

See you in about 80,000k's!

[rosie631]

My belt ended up costing $259NZD including delivery.

And going by the prices I posted in the first post in this thread the OEM HD belt would cost $290NZD plus delivery, Which would be a saving of about $100NZD.

Don't know how much you get paid an hour but to me at least that's well worth the effort.

The price I got from mandmcycles for postage was 46USD which converts to 80NZD making a total of $370 NZD. That would be a saving of $73 on the local shop price I was given. Also payment was by Paypal which I haven't used for ages but I seem to remember there was some sort of charge for it? If I can get one in NZ for 400ish I'll go with that but haven't found anything yet.

[rosie631]

My belt ended up costing $259NZD including delivery.

And going by the prices I posted in the first post in this thread the OEM HD belt would cost $290NZD plus delivery, Which would be a saving of about $100NZD.

Don't know how much you get paid an hour but to me at least that's well worth the effort.

Mind you $259NZD is a bloody good saving. Was that for the Dayco belt?

[Headbanger]

Mind you $259NZD is a bloody good saving. Was that for the Dayco belt?

Indeed it was. Should be interesting to see how the worlds cheapest belt works out.

[buellbabe]

I'd rather pay $370 than $440. $70 is 2 tanks of gas and a feed while out on the bike for the day...I reckon that saving is worth it LOL.

Hey Rosie you were saying that you were having difficulty when searching for 'drive belt'. I suggest you get the actual part number and use that in your search. Sometimes that can help.

Another American site to check out is http://www.stpaulhd.com/

They have an ebay store as well.

Paypal...charge? I use Paypal often and haven't noticed any exorbitant charges...

[rosie631]

I'd rather pay $370 than $440. $70 is 2 tanks of gas and a feed while out on the bike for the day...I reckon that saving is worth it LOL.

Hey Rosie you were saying that you were having difficulty when searching for 'drive belt'. I suggest you get the actual part number and use that in your search. Sometimes that can help.

Another American site to check out is http://www.stpaulhd.com/

They have an ebay store as well.

Paypal...charge? I use Paypal often and haven't noticed any exorbitant charges...

Well, when you put it like that....
Thanks for the site. Will continue in the search.

[buellbabe]

No worries... if you have the time then you might as well trawl the internet to find the best deal eh??? Cos lets face it...you kinda want to save yourself as much $$$s as poss cos unfortunately fitting the new belt ain't gonna be cheap...

[Headbanger]

Mind you $259NZD is a bloody good saving. Was that for the Dayco belt?

Come to think of it that sounds a little cheap, Maybe it was $359.....

[rosie631]

Hi everyone, Thanks for your help and suggestions. Contacted Harley Speed and Custom in Wellington, after a local KBer recommended them. Got an HD belt for 390 including postage. Happy with that. Only 20 more than the States and still 50 bucks less than the best local price i could find. Should be here tomorrow.:woohoo: If anyone is looking for parts could be worth contacting these guys. They were very helpful on the phone.Can't wait to get the belt and get it on. I miss my bike :crybaby::crybaby:

[buellbabe]

Thats great news! Actually given the current exchange rate that is a pretty fair price...pays to shop around huh?
Well done;)

[Headbanger]

Hi everyone, Thanks for your help and suggestions. Contacted Harley Speed and Custom in Wellington, after a local KBer recommended them. Got an HD belt for 390 including postage. Happy with that. Only 20 more than the States and still 50 bucks less than the best local price i could find. Should be here tomorrow.:woohoo: If anyone is looking for parts could be worth contacting these guys. They were very helpful on the phone.Can't wait to get the belt and get it on. I miss my bike :crybaby::crybaby:

Are they located in Pukerua bay?

If its the same place then I have dealt with before a few times, Always had very sharp prices and know there stuff inside and out.

They also import bikes, Their showroom has some gems in it.

[rosie631]

Are they located in Pukerua bay?

If its the same place then I have dealt with before a few times, Always had very sharp prices and know there stuff inside and out.

They also import bikes, Their showroom has some gems in it.

Not sure, where in Wellington they are. Have only dealt with them by phone.

[buellbabe]

Yep thats where they are...I looked them up...no website tho...waaaah!

Figured it would be worthwhile storing that number in my phone...I realise they deal with HDs but a lot of Sportster parts fit my X1.

Mindyou in most cases the same item in a Harley box is more expensive than when its in a Buell box LOL.

[rosie631]

Drive belt on. All good. Awayatc did this and also fixed a heap of other problems that he found while doing it e.g stuffed rear wheel bearings. Starter had to come out so got that sorted too cos it had been playing up. After watching/helping him I reckon if I had the tools and someones brute strength I could just about do it again if I had to.
Anyway, awayatc has the tools and the knowledge and he's also a lot cheaper than the local bike shops. So if anyone round Chch need a drive belt doing PM him and I'm sure he'll do you a good deal. Can't recommend his work highly enough. He doesn't charge extra for you to watch/help either lol.

[buellbabe]

Jeez you must be blimmin glad to get that all sorted... now if only that pesky snow and ice would bugger off...LOL

Oh its times like these i love living in semi-tropical Auckland :sunny:

[scumdog]

My belt ended up costing $259NZD including delivery.

And going by the prices I posted in the first post in this thread the OEM HD belt would cost $290NZD plus delivery, Which would be a saving of about $100NZD.

Don't know how much you get paid an hour but to me at least that's well worth the effort.

NZ$305 for normajeanes Sportys belt from the US - that included freight.

About $55+ cheaper than the ex-Aussie NZ price.

[peasea]

Jeez you must be blimmin glad to get that all sorted... now if only that pesky snow and ice would bugger off...LOL

Oh its times like these i love living in semi-tropical Auckland :sunny:

Semi-tropical Orks is due for 2deg tonight. With the traffic and the bullshit that the town exudes I'll go for -1, a quick frost, cloudless day and zip traffic thanks.

[buellbabe]

Fortunately I work outside average office hours so traffic is rarely an issue for me.

But when I say "Auckland" I am referring to the greater Auckland area and its surrounds, ya never have to go far to be on fabulous bike roads and ice/snow ain't an issue up here.
Probably the worst thing is those twisty back roads that us Aucklanders know and love...due to the lack of sun and abundance of bush some of the corners can get mossy and littered with leaves which turn to a nice slimey sludge...yep, gotta keep an eye out for that!

But this is all beside the point...all good about the belt eh?

[oldguy]

I did my belt this arvo, on way home from work, pain the ass as I had just ordered a new front tyre, didn't need the extra cost of a drive belt.
fingers crossed i can get one by the weekend.
one thing about the Buell, they are easy to work on, when having to replace the belt

[jafar]

I did my belt this arvo, on way home from work, pain the ass as I had just ordered a new front tyre, didn't need the extra cost of a drive belt.
fingers crossed i can get one by the weekend.
one thing about the Buell, they are easy to work on, when having to replace the belt

The belt goes on the back mate , put the front wheel back on :spanking::clap:

[buellbabe]

I did my belt this arvo...fingers crossed i can get one by the weekend.


I have a spare...if you have no joy and really need one then its yours. All ya gotta do is replace it.

Its in Wellywood at the mo so will need to go on a courier but thats no drama.


PM me :yes:

[oldguy]

The belt goes on the back mate , put the front wheel back on :spanking::clap:
haha funny guy, :laugh:i need new front tyre, so while its not going anywhere, easy enough to just take the wheel off now get it done.





I have a spare...if you have no joy and really need one then its yours. All ya gotta do is replace it.

Its in Wellywood at the mo so will need to go on a courier but thats no drama.


PM me :yes:

cheers for the offer buellbabe, will give AMPs or Hamilton Motorcycles a call first hopefully.
funny thing is the belt that broke, I got from wellington motorcycles over night, best AMPs could do was 3 weeks.:eek5:

[peasea]

I don't know why people shop there.

[oldguy]

Have to take back what I said about AMPs they had one in stock, bloody not cheap at $393 had to replace belt tensioner pulley bearing as well that was interesting trying to figure out how it came apart.
But all sorted, get my tyre tomorrow and back on the road.:woohoo:

[oldguy]

There are two bearing which go in side by side.....

[jafar]

There are two bearing which go in side by side.....

See if you had kept the VTR you wouldn't know that :Oops:

[Big Dave]

I don't know why people shop there.

I do.

<tenchars> </tenchars>

[buellbabe]

Yep...ditto.
They let me take demo bikes out at opening time and return them at closing...whats not to like about that?

(and because they have always been so good about my demo rides they just might be getting a sale in the very near future...)

[Big Dave]

Annie gives me hugs.

[peasea]

Annie gives me hugs.

Come 'ere big boy......

[NOWOOL]

Has anyone 'legitimately' figured out when is the best kms to replace a Harley belt? My State-side friends aren't much help because they tell me "true Harleys" don't use belts (mind ya their early bikes do leak oil and eat chains).

Another question: Stateside they tell me the best way to adjust belt tension is have someone hold the bike straight and just adjust the screw with the rear tyre on the ground! seems crazy to me but does it work? TIA

[buellbabe]

SERIOUSLY!
You don't replace the belt unless you need to...either its snapped or torn...

They can pick up a stone (which you then remove) and then carry on for thousands of kms with no trouble.

if it ain't broke don't fix it!

[oldguy]

Ok after doing my drive belt recently i decided to do this, I hope it works got to be better than whats on it at the mo.

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php?t=106355

[peasea]

SERIOUSLY!
You don't replace the belt unless you need to...either its snapped or torn...

They can pick up a stone (which you then remove) and then carry on for thousands of kms with no trouble.

if it ain't broke don't fix it!

Dunno I'd agree 100% there. If the belt has some big k's on it (like 80-100 or more) and I was looking at a major tour I'd be chucking a new one on in an effort to avoid a roadside grizzlefest. It's all very well pushing the limits of a belt within a few hundred k's of home but on tour? Nah, a new one before you depart would be my advice. You can label the old one with the k's it's covered and keep that as a spare for yourself or visitors who might have a drama. A get-you-home, if you like.

A chain on the side of the road is one thing; but a belt? ARRRGGGHHH!