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[Highwaystar]

Approximately 18K and $caboom$. I replaced the cheap "stock" compensator with a SE unit and all is good. I did have the typical clatter at 26-2800 RPM thing. I assumed it was piston noise but now find the engine quiet after the repair. There should be a recall on the design because of the danger of wheel lock up. I hear this is somewhat common. The SE compensator designed is a much different design and is stock on all 2011 bikes. Basically the spring disks are held in place by a metal can on the outer diameter on the "stock cheepo unit" and the SE disks are locked in place at the center shaft with out the need of a can. The overall integrity is much stronger also. Failure is imminent mostly due to wear.  Finally let me say the power delivery, shifting and start up is smoother and the "rattle and clatter" is also gone. Hard to believe I put up with the noise for so long (it started at 500 miles). If you notice the typical "110" clatter get worse, especially at start up...look at your compensator.  

[Cvostu]

Even though there is a charge for this, I can't explain why anyone would not want to upgrade to the new SE compensator. I'm really glad it is working out for you and you are happier with your bike.

[grc]

It became evident shortly after the new style primary was launched in '06/'07 that the new cheapo compensator wasn't up to the task.  And that was with the standard engines; with the added cranking compression and low speed torque of the 110's it became very obvious immediately.  But in typical Harley fashion, they would not admit to a problem but instead came up with the SE compensator that they could sell for additional profit.   

As much as it ticks me off to have to pay extra to fix the manufacturer's mistakes, when anyone asks my opinion I still recommend that they upgrade to the SE version.  I'd still ask H-D to pick up the tab, but from what I've heard they put a stop to their reps paying for the difference after the size of the problem became more evident.  With Harley it seems it's never about just doing the right thing, it's more about ducking responsibility and saving a buck.

Funny how the old style compensator managed to hold up to all sorts of hot rodding over the years with nary a whimper, but the new stuff can't even stand up to a stock powertrain. 


Jerry

[smkymtnboy]

is this a problem on the 08 model cvos?

[SBB]

is this a problem on the 08 model cvos?

yes


SBB

[smkymtnboy]

yes


SBB

so should i replace mine now? or do you wait for sign of failure or are there any signs. 16,500 miles on bike.

[pkl]

How about 10's?

[grc]

How about 10's?

2010 CVO's already have the SE compensator stock.


Jerry

[Cvostu]

I bet that's a relief

[pkl]

Not really, mine (bike) started vibrating and a mechanic opened it up and found one of the plates had slipped. Reset it and tightened bolt but I'm getting the 2600 to 2900 rpm vibration. Don't think it's in the head(mine not bike's). Any thoughts.

[TinSpinner]

Think I may have the compensator blight as well on my '07 CUSE. Have a clattering sound around 26-2700 RPM up to about 3000 that sounds like a couple of rocks rattling around in the engine , especially noticeable in 4th gear in traffic when I am not quite fast enough to shift up. Is that what compensator issues sound like?

[dlaws01]

Even though there is a charge for this, I can't explain why anyone would not want to upgrade to the new SE compensator.


If you don't mind, how much was the bill, parts and labor to have the se comp installed ?

[JP]

If you don't mind, how much was the bill, parts and labor to have the se comp installed ?

[Highwaystar]

Se comp is $249.00 and they also have an improved chain adjuster that's about $90. All that is needed to change the compensator is a 1-1/2 harbor freight open end wrench, a torque wrench thats good for 140 ft lbs and a new cover gasket. The instructions are included with the comp. I would estimate an easy 1 hour replacement.  I notice after a few hundred miles, the stronger springs in the SE comp contributes to less drive train slop and the shift feels better. Start up is noise free now... and the crazy rattling at certain rpm's has vanished  

[smkymtnboy]

Se comp is $249.00 and they also have an improved chain adjuster that's about $90. All that is needed to change the compensator is a 1-1/2 harbor freight open end wrench, a torque wrench thats good for 140 ft lbs and a new cover gasket. The instructions are included with the comp. I would estimate an easy 1 hour replacement.  I notice after a few hundred miles, the stronger springs in the SE comp contributes to less drive train slop and the shift feels better. Start up is noise free now... and the crazy rattling at certain rpm's has vanished  

oh no! here goes!