Harley Davidson Forums banner
Cancel

Compensator Sprocket - 2013 Harley-Davidson FLHTK Electra Glide Ultra Limited

644 Views 17 Replies 5 Participants Last post by  Moto Man Dan, 
M
Hello Everyone, I've riden Harley's most of my life except for a Honda 1300 CRX. Sorry Honda guys, it just wasn't a Harley and it had to go. I now have a 2013 HD FLHTK with a 103" engine. I'm very convervative with my machine, ride solo, and do NOT plan to do any drag racing and rarely even get on the throttle except to get out of my own way. I have 24,000 miles and am wondering about the compensator sprocket? Doing some research, I learned there were several models (or versions) of the compensator sprocket used 2008 to 2013? From what I have learned, in 2014 the Screamin Eagle sprocket was installed as OEM on all larger twins. My moto runs great but I'm always game for making it smoother. Will I be gaining anything by replacing the compensator sprocket and is the Screamin Eagle the one I need/should buy for conservative riding? I purchased the bike with 23K miles so I don't know the history of the bike. I don't get any of the tell tale "clanging" or "banging" that some people describe associated with a bad compensator but I do notice a little bit of "back and forth" lag when I'm going slow, in first gear, and I gently slow the bike, then gently increase speed again. There is just a little bit "lag" there I'd like to eliminate. Maybe its the compensator or maybe its the primary chain tensioner? Just as a continuing improvement measure, I plam to replace the stock primary chain tensioner as I'm not crazy about what I've learned about the stock product and its self tightening characterists based on torque application. I plan to use the Hayden spring tensioner with the fiberglass shoe (similar to the Harley OEM) that rides under the primary chain and pushes up via the spring. I also plan to replace the clutch with a stock or near stock product simply because I don't know much about the history of the moto. I'm not looking for any kind of high performance wiz-bang compensators or clutch products. Any recommendations regarding the compensator, primary chain tensioner, and clutch replacement would be greatly appreciated so I don't end up buying a clutch made for lots of stop and go traffic (like law enforcement parade use bikes as mentioned in something I read). Nor do I need a compensator or clutch made for drag racing and high torque applications. However, I don't mind buying more "heavy duty" use products if they will make moto smoother, last longer, and overall better for the bike and drive train. Recommendations most welcome here and thanks in advance. Ya'all ride safe!!
See less See more
Reply
Save
Like
1 - 18 of 18 Posts
chasarms
2
I’m pretty sure they started using the SE comp in 2011. I replaced the one on the 2011 ultra I had at 40k with the SE unit, and other than the bolt, they weee exactly the same.

That said, I would not expect a change to help your issue. Mine was completely shot. It had a 1/8” groove cut in it, and you only knew it because it sounded like a hammer hitting an anvil on a warm start.

Regarding the clutch, if you change it, you’re gonna throw away about 50-60% of a clutch. On a stock bike they go 60-70k miles easy. But, if you want to change it, the stock HD clutch is proven.

See less See more
Reply
Save
Like
  • Like
Reactions: 2
JLR
Your back and forth lag could come from the slack in the primary chain or the cush drive rubbers in the rear wheel. If you ride conservatively don't worry about the compensator or clutch. Don't fix what isn't broken!
Reply
Save
Like
  • Like
Reactions: 2
DynaDude98
Me thinks it is possible that it is just a loose drive belt...or not.
Reply
Save
Like
JLR
Further thought says the transmissions have some slop in them too. Add them all up and you have a bit of a "lag".

BTW: most properly ridden Harley's don't have problems in the primary, so don't be scared.
Reply
Save
Like
Wiredog
Why would you want to fix something that isn't broken? Working with military repair orgs from all branches for many years, a phrase frequently came up:

Fix it till its broke.
Reply
Save
Like
  • Like
Reactions: 1
M
chasarms said:
I’m pretty sure they started using the SE comp in 2011. I replaced the one on the 2011 ultra I had at 40k with the SE unit, and other than the bolt, they weee exactly the same.

That said, I would not expect a change to help your issue. Mine was completely shot. It had a 1/8” groove cut in it, and you only knew it because it sounded like a hammer hitting an anvil on a warm start.

Regarding the clutch, if you change it, you’re gonna throw away about 50-60% of a clutch. On a stock bike they go 60-70k miles easy. But, if you want to change it, the stock HD clutch is proven.

View attachment 828610
View attachment 828611
Click to expand...
chasarms said:
I’m pretty sure they started using the SE comp in 2011. I replaced the one on the 2011 ultra I had at 40k with the SE unit, and other than the bolt, they weee exactly the same.

That said, I would not expect a change to help your issue. Mine was completely shot. It had a 1/8” groove cut in it, and you only knew it because it sounded like a hammer hitting an anvil on a warm start.

Regarding the clutch, if you change it, you’re gonna throw away about 50-60% of a clutch. On a stock bike they go 60-70k miles easy. But, if you want to change it, the stock HD clutch is proven.

View attachment 828610
View attachment 828611

Hello, thanks much for all the information, advice, and experience you've had with the issues I brought up. The photos are amazing and really show the punishment the compensator takes controlling the engine pulses. I based my statements on the Screamin Eagle compensator on a video from Doc Harley where he explained the various compensators used for various years and such. Wow, it would scare the living daylights out of me if I heard something like a "hammer hitting an anvil" when doing a hot start!! I have always admired the way Harley riders kind of take things in stride with the attitude, "eh, I can fix it..." A sound like that would make me think the Zombie Apocalypse has begun! I worry about stuff too much! You comments on the clutch were really welcome in that I have NO interest in throwing away good clutch parts! Sheesh!!! Thanks much for your assessment based on my year, miles, and such. Greatly appreciated and ride safe!
Click to expand...
Reply
Save
Like
M
JLR said:
Your back and forth lag could come from the slack in the primary chain or the cush drive rubbers in the rear wheel. If you ride conservatively don't worry about the compensator or clutch. Don't fix what isn't broken!
Click to expand...
Hello Jim, Thanks very much for your assessment of my driving habits and the comment on not fixing what isn't broken. Sometimes I think I come up with excuses for things to do with my moto...just to get a chance to work on it. I'm a closet wrench and grease monkey! Thanks much again and ride safe!!
Reply
Save
Like
  • Like
Reactions: 1
M
DynaDude98 said:
Me thinks it is possible that it is just a loose drive belt...or not.
Click to expand...
I'll check some of the "other stuff" such as drive belt tension. Great advice, greatly appreciated!! Ride safe!!
Reply
Save
Like
M
DynaDude98 said:
Me thinks it is possible that it is just a loose drive belt...or not.
Click to expand...
You're not the first person to mention the drive belt tension! Great advice and greatly appreciated along with all the other comments here! Thanks very much! Ride Safe!!
Reply
Save
Like
M
Wiredog said:
Why would you want to fix something that isn't broken? Working with military repair orgs from all branches for many years, a phrase frequently came up:

Fix it till its broke.
Click to expand...
Hello, thanks for your posting and I'm just a nerd and a closet grease monkey and wrench!! I think I am always trying to fix something before its broke...but probably employing your military repair comment, "Fix it till its broke!"... That was a good one!! Thanks much and you're right...why fix stuff that works fine as it is now!! Thanks much and ride safe!!
Reply
Save
Like
M
JLR said:
Further thought says the transmissions have some slop in them too. Add them all up and you have a bit of a "lag".

BTW: most properly ridden Harley's don't have problems in the primary, so don't be scared.
Click to expand...
Hi again Jim, Thanks for giving my questions and concern the thought you did as is obvious by your separate (Further Though) replies. This is my first Electra Glide and I always had lighter bikes before, none of which were baggers. I had an old 45 cubic inch, 3 speed on the tank, former police bike when I was a kid, then a sportster and then a duo glide. I really like the ability to "carry and pack stuff" without using a back pack! I am probably not used to the heavier moto and the characteristics associated with riding a bike with this weight. In fact, truth be told, I laid it on its side the first day I had it by using the front brake when leaning over slightly and stopping at a stop sign. Embarrassing as can be but learned an important lesson on the Electra Glide. I took a great class put on by the local law enforcement motor unit and wow, those guys can REALLY ride the Electra Glide. Most of them had worn down a bit of the food boards with maximum lean angle turns and such. What I am experiencing could very well be a bit of transmission slop, perhaps combined with the drive belt needing adjustment...or perhaps not. I'll check that as well. Again, thanks much for all the comments and thoughts! Your comments, as well as the others here is EXACTLY what I was looking for in the way thoughts, comments, recommendations, and questions like, "why fix it if it isn't broken..." All the best and ride safe!
See less See more
Reply
Save
Like
  • Like
Reactions: 1
M
JLR said:
Your back and forth lag could come from the slack in the primary chain or the cush drive rubbers in the rear wheel. If you ride conservatively don't worry about the compensator or clutch. Don't fix what isn't broken!
Click to expand...
I'm going to check the primary chain and I wasn't even thinking about the cush drive rubbers in the rear wheel! Good points one and all and thanks for your comment on my conservative ridiing. Don't fix what isn't broken! Good advice and thanks much. Ride Safe...
Reply
Save
Like
chasarms
Wiredog said:
. . . Fix it till its broke.
Click to expand...
My son wrenches on fighters at Kadena. It is one of his favorite sayings!
Reply
Save
Like
M
JLR said:
Your back and forth lag could come from the slack in the primary chain or the cush drive rubbers in the rear wheel. If you ride conservatively don't worry about the compensator or clutch. Don't fix what isn't broken!
Click to expand...
chasarms said:
I’m pretty sure they started using the SE comp in 2011. I replaced the one on the 2011 ultra I had at 40k with the SE unit, and other than the bolt, they weee exactly the same.

That said, I would not expect a change to help your issue. Mine was completely shot. It had a 1/8” groove cut in it, and you only knew it because it sounded like a hammer hitting an anvil on a warm start.

Regarding the clutch, if you change it, you’re gonna throw away about 50-60% of a clutch. On a stock bike they go 60-70k miles easy. But, if you want to change it, the stock HD clutch is proven.

View attachment 828610
View attachment 828611
Click to expand...
chasarms said:
My son wrenches on fighters at Kadena. It is one of his favorite sayings!
Click to expand...
That is great to hear and I am grateful for your son's service to our great nation!! Thanks much, Happy Memorial Day, and Ride Safe!!
Reply
Save
Like
  • Like
Reactions: 2
chasarms
Moto Man Dan said:
. . . I based my statements on the Screamin Eagle compensator on a video from Doc Harley where he explained the various compensators used for various years and such. . .
Click to expand...
Your '13 is essentially the same bike as my '11. I think the ECU is different, but otherwise, it is the same platform. I would be shocked if it doesn't have the same compensator. They changed some things with the '14 Rushmore bikes, but I am unsure regarding the compensator. I am almost certain it is the same. I have a close friend that had a '15 Ultra Limited. I think he went through two or three compensators before he parted with that bike. The part is made to wear, so I don't understand why some people get all bent out of shape when they start failing. Although, I would be a bit upset too if I had to replace it every 20K miles.

The reason I don't think it is your issue is because of how it works. It is essentially that ramp in pic 1, the sprocket in pic two and a stack of heavy spring washers. Between the 180 ft lbs of torque on it (it's a real treat to get it there!) and the springs, it is basically solid until it doesn't need to be. If there was enough slop in it to slip at low speed and RPM, it would be making all kinds of noises on starts and such.

Moto Man Dan said:
. . . Wow, it would scare the living daylights out of me if I heard something like a "hammer hitting an anvil" when doing a hot start!! I have always admired the way Harley riders kind of take things in stride with the attitude, "eh, I can fix it..." A sound like that would make me think the Zombie Apocalypse has begun! I worry about stuff too much!. . .
Click to expand...
Guys who worry too much about noises typically end up on Gold Wings!!! :) When I got my first H-D, I was that way, so I get it. Enjoy the ride, brother!
See less See more
Reply
Save
Like
M
chasarms said:
Your '13 is essentially the same bike as my '11. I think the ECU is different, but otherwise, it is the same platform. I would be shocked if it doesn't have the same compensator. They changed some things with the '14 Rushmore bikes, but I am unsure regarding the compensator. I am almost certain it is the same. I have a close friend that had a '15 Ultra Limited. I think he went through two or three compensators before he parted with that bike. The part is made to wear, so I don't understand why some people get all bent out of shape when they start failing. Although, I would be a bit upset too if I had to replace it every 20K miles.

The reason I don't think it is your issue is because of how it works. It is essentially that ramp in pic 1, the sprocket in pic two and a stack of heavy spring washers. Between the 180 ft lbs of torque on it (it's a real treat to get it there!) and the springs, it is basically solid until it doesn't need to be. If there was enough slop in it to slip at low speed and RPM, it would be making all kinds of noises on starts and such.



Guys who worry too much about noises typically end up on Gold Wings!!! :) When I got my first H-D, I was that way, so I get it. Enjoy the ride, brother!
Click to expand...
Thanks much for the most enjoyable conversation and it sounds to me you're right about my bike and yours being very similar. I discovered 2014 was a big changing point for the Electra Glide with, among many other things, the larger dash display with more information and such. Your assessment of the issues with my moto, if any, are spot on and after hearing the description of the hammer and anvil noise of a bad compensator, I don't think I have any issues (and I'm grateful!). The knowledge I gained in this conversation was fantastic as I would not have had a clue what a banging noise was or how it could be fixed. I really hate paying anyone to work on anything on my moto and I'm pretty mechanically inclined but not all that knowledgeable on the idosyncrasies of various Harley models. I knew my old 45 as I brought it with a blown engine and lots of other needed repairs and built it from scratch. I knew my Sportster and Duo but had a lot of work done by others due to a busy work schedule. Now, I can take my time, do what I want, when I want, take breaks and finish when I'm in the mood. Again, thanks much for all the support! Ride Safe!!
See less See more
Reply
Save
Like
M
I was going through your responses to my questions again and wanted to say thanks, once again, for all the thought and comments offered. You were very helpful and your assistance and expertise was greatly appreciated! Ride Safe Amigo!!
Reply
Save
Like
1 - 18 of 18 Posts
Harley Davidson Forums
A forum community dedicated to all Harley-Davidson model owners and enthusiasts. Come join the discussion about performance, modifications, troubleshooting, builds, maintenance, classifieds and more!
Full Forum Listing
Explore Our Forums
General Motorcycle Related New to the Community Touring General Discussions Sportster General Discussions Softail General Discussions
Top