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by John Watson Leave a Comment

What’s the Best Harley Primary Chain Tensioner?

If your bike has a primary chain problem, you should get a new primary chain tensioner to make the system more effective. The HD brand introduced the first primary chain tensioner in 2006. In 2016, the Milwaukee 8 made the primary chain adjuster more complex. It was designed with infinite points of adjustment and requires a special wrench for installation. Its main benefit is that it works with stock hardware. However, you should first check the mounting hardware. You can use the stock nuts and bolts to attach the unit.

Manual chains may be noisy and must be checked annually. The best way to avoid this problem is to use a manual chain tensioner. It will save you time and money and let you spend it on other things, like beer or chicken wings! The Twin Power Tension Reliever Manual Primary Chin Adjuster can only be used with a 34 tooth sprocket. If your bike doesn’t come with a manual primary chain tensioner, you can choose to buy a new one, which is also compatible with other models.

The best way to choose a primary chain tensioner is to find out which type of bike is compatible with it. Some models are not compatible with different models of bikes. If you have a motorcycle that uses a different size, you can get a manual primary chain tensioner instead. It costs less and does the same job. And it is not difficult to install. In addition, it’s very easy to install.

Best Harley Primary Chain Tensioner – Top 5

# Preview Product Price
1 M6-BT07 Automatic Primary Chain Tensioner Compatible With 2006-2017 Harley Davidson | Reduce Shifting Noise M6-BT07 Automatic Primary Chain Tensioner Compatible With 2006-2017 Harley Davidson | Reduce... $47.50 Check Latest Price
2 RANSOTO Replace M6-BT07 Primary Chain Tensioner Compatible With 2006-2017 Harley Davidson 2007+ Big Twins &Twin Cams 2006 Dyna RANSOTO Replace M6-BT07 Primary Chain Tensioner Compatible With 2006-2017 Harley Davidson 2007+ Big... $40.50 Check Latest Price
3 Primary Chain Tensioner M6-BT07 Compatible with 2006-2017 Harley Davidson Primary Chain Tensioner M6-BT07 Compatible with 2006-2017 Harley Davidson $52.68 Check Latest Price
4 Dasbecan Primary Chain Tensioner Adjuster Compatible with Harley Davidson 2006-2017 Replaces# M6-BT07 Dasbecan Primary Chain Tensioner Adjuster Compatible with Harley Davidson 2006-2017 Replaces#... $40.50 Check Latest Price
5 Orange Cycle Parts Primary Chain Adjusting Shoe for Harley Big Twin 1984-2000, Shovelhead 1966-1984, Panhead 1965 Replaces #s 39976-65 and 39976-65B Orange Cycle Parts Primary Chain Adjusting Shoe for Harley Big Twin 1984-2000, Shovelhead 1966-1984,... $9.89 Check Latest Price

Features of Selected Harley Primary Chain Tensioner

Bestseller No. 1
M6-BT07 Automatic Primary Chain Tensioner Compatible With 2006-2017 Harley Davidson | Reduce Shifting Noise
M6-BT07 Automatic Primary Chain Tensioner Compatible With 2006-2017 Harley Davidson | Reduce Shifting Noise
  • ▲【Applicable Models】: Compatible with 2006-2017 Harley-Davidson | Replacement OE#: M6-BT07. (Please see the main picture for specific models)
  • ▲【Function】: The M6 Primary Chain Tensioner is used to reducing annoying vibration, ensure constant and correct tension, making the ride smoother.
  • ▲【Function】: The product is Reduce shifting noise, improves shifting performance, while extending the life of your primary chain.
  • ▲【Easy installation】: Installation generally less than 1 hour for the non-mechanic, it's not necessary to remove your primary chain.
  • ▲【Our Warranty】: 2-year warranty, if you have any product questions, please contact us and we will reply you within 12 hours, and free returns and exchanges, making you feel really happy shopping.
$47.50
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SaleBestseller No. 2
RANSOTO Replace M6-BT07 Primary Chain Tensioner Compatible With 2006-2017 Harley Davidson 2007+ Big Twins &Twin Cams 2006 Dyna
RANSOTO Replace M6-BT07 Primary Chain Tensioner Compatible With 2006-2017 Harley Davidson 2007+ Big Twins &Twin Cams 2006 Dyna
  • Compatible With:2006-2017 Harley Davidson,2007+ Big Twins / Twin Cams ,2006 Dyna
  • Replace Part Number:M6-BT07
  • Material:Made of High-quality ABS plastic and rugged metal bracket,durable ,not easy to damage and wear.
  • Function:This product is used to reduce excess vibration to ensure constant and correct tension,making the ride smoother.
  • Content:1*Primary Chain Tensioner
$40.50
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Bestseller No. 3
Primary Chain Tensioner M6-BT07 Compatible with 2006-2017 Harley Davidson
Primary Chain Tensioner M6-BT07 Compatible with 2006-2017 Harley Davidson
  • The M6 Primary Chain Tensioner makes a smoother ride by reducing annoying vibration, by keeping constant and correct tension at all times
  • Your transmission will 'click' into gear instead of 'clunk', It also improves shifting performance while extending the life of your primary chain
  • Easy installation (generally less than 1 hour for the non-mechanic), it's not necessary to remove your primary chain
  • you can have the proper chain tension during acceleration and deceleration with the big benefit of improved shifting
  • Package includes a set of Primary Chain Tensioner kit, We will provide you with towels or gloves in the product, Hoping to Help you During the Installation Process
$52.68
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Bestseller No. 4
Dasbecan Primary Chain Tensioner Adjuster Compatible with Harley Davidson 2006-2017 Replaces# M6-BT07
Dasbecan Primary Chain Tensioner Adjuster Compatible with Harley Davidson 2006-2017 Replaces# M6-BT07
  • 【Replacement Part Number】M6-BT07
  • 【Compatible With】Harley Davidson 2006-2017,07-Up Big Twins, Twin Cams and 06 Dyna Models(Complete vehicle details View Vehicle Combility List)
  • 【Package list】Primary Chain Tensioner x1pc
  • 【Features】Automatically adjust the tension of the primary chain;make the noise from your primary chain disappear
  • 【Warranty】12-Months-Warranty,If you have any questions, please contact us via Amazon Message directly, our professional customer service would help.
$40.50
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Bestseller No. 5
Orange Cycle Parts Primary Chain Adjusting Shoe for Harley Big Twin 1984-2000, Shovelhead 1966-1984, Panhead 1965 Replaces #s 39976-65 and 39976-65B
Orange Cycle Parts Primary Chain Adjusting Shoe for Harley Big Twin 1984-2000, Shovelhead 1966-1984, Panhead 1965 Replaces #s 39976-65 and 39976-65B
  • Primary Chain Adjusting Shoe
  • For Harley Big Twin 1984-2000, Shovelhead 1966 - 1984, Panhead 1965
  • Replaces Harley OEM # 39976-65 and 39976-65B. Check OEM # for precise application
  • Exact replacement for stock nylon shoe
  • Sold each
$9.89
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Bestseller No. 6
V-Twin 18-8328 - Manual Primary Chain Adjuster Kit
V-Twin 18-8328 - Manual Primary Chain Adjuster Kit
  • Manual Primary Chain Adjuster Kit
$122.00
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Bestseller No. 7
XKMT-Automatic Primary Chain Tensioner Adjuster Compatible With Harley Big Twin 2001-2006 03 04 05 [B07BDCV87B]
XKMT-Automatic Primary Chain Tensioner Adjuster Compatible With Harley Big Twin 2001-2006 03 04 05 [B07BDCV87B]
  • Automatically adjust the tension of the primary chain
  • Provide constant and even tension, which improves gear shifting
  • Reduce shifting noise; makes for a smoother ride
  • Extend primary chain life
  • Fits: Harley Davidson Big Twin Models 2001-2006 (except 2006 Dyna models)
$47.99
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Bestseller No. 8
TIGERSGATE Primary Chain Tensioner Compatible with 2007-2017 Harley Big Twin Engine (including 06 Dyna) and 2017+ Milwaukee M8 Models
TIGERSGATE Primary Chain Tensioner Compatible with 2007-2017 Harley Big Twin Engine (including 06 Dyna) and 2017+ Milwaukee M8 Models
  • Fitment: 2007-2016 Harley Big Twin (including 06 Dyna) and 2017+ Harley Milwaukee M8 Models
  • Premium quality:Complete cam chain tensioner assemblies feature the proven shoe material for longer life, reduced friction, and higher temperature resistance.
  • Function:Automatically adjust the tension of the primary chain,Reduce shifting noise; makes for a smoother riding
  • Easy to Install:the kit come with complete installation instructions,
  • Package List:a set of Primary Chain Tensioner kit
$49.99
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Bestseller No. 9
360 Twin Hydraulic Primary Chain Tensioner for Big Twin Harley Davidson 1965-2006
360 Twin Hydraulic Primary Chain Tensioner for Big Twin Harley Davidson 1965-2006
  • Automatic chain tensioner uses the oil in the primary as its own reservoir
  • Has its own pump and operates like a hydraulic lifter in the engine
  • Maintains a constant zero lash between acceleration and deceleration
  • No more chain slap inside expensive primary cases or excessive vibration
  • Will work on 1965-84 Big Twins (Shovelheads) if primary is converted to an oil bath type.
$44.78
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Bestseller No. 10
YESHMA Primary Chain Tensioner Compatible with Harley Davidson Big Twin Engine 2007-2017 Motorcycle Automatic Adjust Tension
YESHMA Primary Chain Tensioner Compatible with Harley Davidson Big Twin Engine 2007-2017 Motorcycle Automatic Adjust Tension
  • Fitment:Compatible With Harley Davidson Big Twin 2007-2016 (including 06 Dyna)
  • Primary Chain Tensioner Use Improved material provides you with longer life and reduced friction for a smoother ride.
  • Automatically adjust the tension of the primary chain,Reduce shifting noise and extend primary chain life.
  • Easy to install,Provide constant and uniform tension to improve gear speed.
  • If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us, we will reply you as soon as possible!
$40.99
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What Happens If the Primary Chain is Too Tight?

Tighten the primary chain by loosening the lock nut on the bottom of the primary case. Make sure the primary chain has at least 3/8 inch of wiggle in the cold state. If it is loose, it will cause the primary chain to surge and the primary case will be damaged. A tight primary chain can cause the bike to shift difficultly. In such a case, it is essential to adjust the tension of the primary chain.

Check the tension of the chain by moving it half an inch in either direction and measuring it with a measuring tape. If it does not move much, then it’s probably too tight. To ensure proper tension, refer to the owner’s manual. It will tell you how much chain slack should be present to prevent the chain from slipping. You can find this information by referring to your motorcycle owner’s manual.

Too-tight primary chains can lead to excessive wear. The chain can break while the bike is moving, causing the bike to jerk or stop suddenly. Motorcycle owners need to keep a primary chain with 5/8” to 7/8” of slack when the bike is cold. If it’s hot, it should be at least 3/8” loose. This slack helps the bike to keep the clutch basket in place.

How Tight Should the Primary Chain on a Harley Davidson Be?

To determine the correct tension of your Harley primary chain, start by listening to the left side of the motorcycle’s engine. If the primary chain makes a whining noise, it’s too tight. Too loose, and the primary chain will stretch and rattle the bike. A proper chain tension is 20 mm or half an inch, and if you find that your primary chain is too tight, you should adjust it.

For the Harley-Davidson Sportster, you should adjust the primary chain to its most-tight spot. Bob Dawson explains how to find this spot and why unhooking the negative cable is so crucial when servicing the primary. This video is a valuable resource for anyone looking to adjust the primary chain on their own. However, don’t forget to follow all safety precautions when servicing the primary.

The primary drive on your Harley Davidson motorcycle is a combination of gears and a chain. It transfers engine power to the input shaft. The shift lever changes gears. In some models, a compensator helps smooth out the pulses of the engine and prevents them from being transmitted through the drivetrain. Ensure that you adjust the primary chain tension according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Checking the primary chain tension is easy. You should loosen the axle nut by a couple of turns. If the chain is too loose, you can loosen the bolts by turning the adjuster nuts on the swingarm. Turn the adjuster nuts so that they touch the upper chain guard. Then, turn the engine off to let the motorcycle cool down. The bike chain should now hang in its sweet spot.

How Long Do Harley Cam Tensioners Last?

One of the most important parts of a Harley motorcycle engine is the cam chain tensioner. The cam chain runs through a gear and requires tension to keep it working correctly. Harley-Davidson cam tensioners are spring-loaded and are used to keep the cams in place. If they become worn, the shrapnel from the spring is sent through the motor, destroying the cams and the oil pump.

What Problems Did Harley Have at First with Cam Chain Tensioners?

The first problem with the Harley-Davidson 96-ci engine is that it can fail. Even though it is considered one of the most reliable motorcycle motors ever made, this model has had problems with cam chain tensioners. Thankfully, this issue can be easily remedied with a few simple steps.

What Year Did Harley Use Hydraulic Cam Chain Tensioners?

Did you know that your motorcycle’s hydraulic cam chain tensioners are different from their spring counterparts? In 2007, the new cam plate design replaced the spring tensioners. The hydraulic tensioners are made of a different material than the spring tensioners. The difference between the two models is the cost of the Bearing kit. If you notice an unusual noise coming from your engine, you should get it checked out. It’s important to know that a bad cam chain tensioner could be the cause of a rattling or scraping noise.

You should know that your 1999-2002 Harleys have Timken lower end bearings. Moreover, you should choose a high volume pump and plate. Tapered Timken bearings are bulletproof. For the earlier models, you’ll need a high-volume pump with under.005 run-out. You’ll have to remove the cam cover to check the front tensioner. Once you’ve checked the tensioner, you can upgrade to the hydraulic ones.

The hydraulic cam chain tensioners on Harley motorcycles have the same benefits as their spring-based counterparts, except that they run on engine oil. They are more reliable and last for many more miles than their spring-powered counterparts. And Harley’s over-engineering extends to their hypereutectic aluminum pistons. The latter feature is a type of aluminum alloy coated with Teflon. It can also be made lighter because of its silicon content.

Last update on 2022-06-20  / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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