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[ultra13]

Ok guys I have a friend with an 08 Ultra with what appears to be compensator noise on start up only. If in fact it is and not just the bolt being loose, would you replace it with an SE compensator or aftermarket? Has anyone just replaced the bolt?

[chaos901]

FWIW, if the compensator was installed correctly initially the bolt did not come loose.  The action of starting the bike would be trying to further tighten the bolt.  Make sure that the chain is adjusted properly.   

[ultra13]

So there is a difference between start up Comp. noise and running Comp. noise?

[chaos901]

Not what I'm making reference to.  What I meant to say is that during the normal course of the engine running, the bolt will not loosen.  The rotational torque being applied will be trying to tighten the bolt.  Now I typically hear the compensator more (if worn) when starting the bike.  That kickback is a giveaway.

[J.D.]

Generally replacing the compensator assembly is the fix.  Latest MoCo seems as good as anything.

[trippy]

Classic compensator noises are a kick back at start up and a clunk when shutting down, if its very bad you will get a constant clunking sound (but not as loud as the shut down noise) while running at idle.

The latest version (there have  been 5 or 6) seems the best HD has offered to date, although I still believe the use of the "Compensaver" oil delivery tray makes it a much better option.

[ultra13]

I will be digging into the bike soon. Sounds like installing a new SE compensator is a good possibility.
What does the oil delivery tray do? Is the compensator getting dry and not getting enough oil lube?

[grc]

I will be digging into the bike soon. Sounds like installing a new SE compensator is a good possibility.
What does the oil delivery tray do? Is the compensator getting dry and not getting enough oil lube?

The early design didn't get enough lubrication to the sliding gear and other components.  A company called GMR came out with an aftermarket kit that had a tray that collected splash oil from the primary and directed that oil to the center of the compensator, and it was a huge improvement.  Some time later Harley came up with their version which is the plastic tray you see in the kits.  Eventually they redesigned the interior of the new primary covers to do the same thing without the plastic tray.  When you buy the parts you will need to also buy the epoxy that's used to install the plastic tray (doesn't come in the kit).  Since the 2008 model came with the old original style compensator that has the spring pack attached to the rotor, you will also need the later model rotor.  One of the kits Harley sells comes with the new style rotor, it's part number 40100061 .

Jerry

[trippy]

Although its not available at the moment, check out the Compensaver.com website , its good read, I followed the two guys who designed the system, they even offered there design to Harley but they were not interested, funny how there so called fix is similar?

The tray is far more efficient than the scoop that Harley came out with, it not only supplies a larger quantity of oil to the centre of the compensator, and it also has a large heavy duty earth magnet to take out any metal flakes that are caused by the operation of the compensator, plus a very effective "thrust Washer" .

Have one of the first batch about 5 years ago, don`t do very high mileage but 15-16K with no signs of wear or nasty noises.

[ultra13]

Good stuff. I also watched a video that "Doc Harley" from Low Country HD on compensators. More educated now.
Thanks again....

[Rooster]

So far I still have the first revision in my 07 fingers crossed. About 30k on it.

[masiman]

When was the redesign for the primary cover that deleted the need for the tray when replacing the compensator? I recently had mine replaced on my 2011.5 cvo ultra classic and didn’t see an adhesive kit on the bill. Masi

[Cvostu]

Just had mine replaced last week along with the chain tensioner.  Seems more quiet. Gotta love the ESP plan. 

[ultra13]

So I guess a good question would be what is wearing out here?  Is metal being ground away and creating slop?