1.13REAR BELT DEFLECTION
INSPECTION
TOOL NAMEPART NUMBER
H-D BELT TENSION GAUGEHD-35381-A
Check rear belt deflection:
• As part of the pre-ride inspection.
• At every scheduled service interval.
When checking belt deflection:
• Set belt tension at tightest point in belt.
• Measure belt deflection with motorcycle cold and the
approximate weight of the owner on motorcycle.
1. See Figure 1-25. Obtain H-D BELT TENSION
GAUGE (Part No. HD-35381-A).
NOTE
Customers may purchase gauge from an authorized Harley-
Davidson dealer.
2. To use the belt tension gauge:
a. Slide O-ring (4) toward 0 lbs (0 kg) mark (3).
b. Fit belt cradle (2) against bottom of drive belt half-way
between drive pulleys (point 3 in Figure 1-26.)
c. Press upward on knob (6) until O-ring slides down to
10 lbs (4.5 kg) mark (5).
d. See Figure 1-27. Measure belt deflection as viewed
through deflection viewing window (2) while holding
gauge steady. Deflection graduations (3) are 1/8
in. (3.2 mm) apart.
3. See Figure 1-26. Check drive belt deflection. Apply 10
lbs (4.5 kg) of force upward at point 3.
4. Measure belt deflection several times, each time with belt
moved (by rotating rear wheel) to a different position on
sprockets.
5. Refer to Table 1-11. Compare drive belt deflection with
specifications listed in the table.
NOTE
Do not rely on "feel" for the proper deflection as this typically
results in belts which are under tensioned. Always use H-D
BELT TENSION GAUGE (Part No. HD-35381-A) to determine
the 10 lb. (4.5 kg) deflection force. Loose belts will fail due to
"ratcheting" (jumping a tooth) with resultant tensile cord
crimping and breakage.
Table 1-11. Rear Belt Deflection
FXDB/FXDC/FXDLFXDWG/FXD/FXDF
MMIN.MMIN.
6.4-7.91/4-5/167.9-9.55/16-3/8With motorcycle on
jiffy stand without
rider or luggage
7.9-9.55/16-3/812.7-14.31/2-9/16Vehicle upright with
rear wheel in air
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