My 08 FLHTCUSE3 lost its original compensator at 30,000 miles; lost it's 2nd compensator at 76,000 miles. Am now at 92,000 miles and all is quiet BUT, every primary change (5,000 miles) yields a lot of iron on the magnetic drain plug (always has - far different than my '96 Heritage Softail). The last compensator had a revised design (p/n 40296-06A).
One thing I did when my previous comp was failing is as soon as I turned the ignition ON, I quickly hit the starter and held it in until I was SURE the engine fired off. This seemed to minimize the kickbacks I was getting when the comp was failing. So I continued the practice with the current comp. So far, okay. ALSO, it has been reported that on engine shutdown, some hear loud clunking noise. That IS the sound of a failing comp. I heard it on my last failing comp. I do not have that sound at present, but the iron coming out says there is high wear occuring in the primary, and I'm sure it's the comp.
I have a Kawasaki with a 125 cube motor, dynoed at 136 ft-lb torque, and it has a comp in the driveline. Never had an issue in 73,000 miles so far. So, what gives Harley??