How to Change the Drive Belt on a Harley-Davidson
by Robert Good
The Harley-Davidson drive belt is what feeds the rear wheel power from the transmission. Harley drive belts are very strong and durable and only need replacement after thousands of miles of riding. Unless you have a warranty, a replacement will cost a few hundred dollars at your Harley dealer. Do it yourself in about 30 minutes, for less than $50.
Step 1
Place the Harley onto a motorcycle stand to get the rear wheel off the ground. Use a wrench to remove the rear wheel axle. Push the rear wheel forward to give slack to the drive belt.
Step 2
Remove the belt guards with the ratchet set. Pull the drive belt off the transmission sprocket and rear wheel sprocket.
Step 3
Place the new drive belt on the transmission and rear wheel sprocket. Pull the rear wheel back toward the rear end of the Harley to tighten the new drive belt. Replace the rear wheel axle and tighten sightly.
Step 4
Tighten the new drive belt according to the specifications for your Harley model. Reconnect the belt guards. Use an alignment tool on the rear tire according to the owner's manual.
References
- "Donny’s Unauthorized Technical Guide to Harley Davidson 1936-2008: Volume I: The Twin Cam;" by Donny Petersen; Oct 29, 2007
- "Harley-Davidson Softail: How To Hop-Up & Customize;" by Timothy Remus; Jan 19, 2006
- "Harley-Davidson Shovelhead and Evolution Big Twins 1970 to 1999 (Haynes Service & Repair Manual);" by Tom Schauwecker; Jan 28, 2005
Things You'll Need
- Wrench
- Ratchet set
- Owner's manual
Writer Bio
Living in Tucson, Ariz., Robert Good has been writing from 2003 on a wide variety of subjects ranging from sports, gardening and cooking to auto repair, home maintenance and travel. Good holds a Bachelor of Science in psychology from the University of the State of New York.
