So it looks like I just made one of the biggest mistakes as a Harley Owner. I decided to use a private mechanic to install my new 30T sprocket with drive belt. I dropped off the bike on Monday 8/22/2011 and it was running perfectly. The mechanic called me today and said "We have a problem" so I was extremely concerned. He told me that there was something now wrong with my transmission and he was unsure if he caused it or it was an existing problem. He described the problem as a loud grinding and I thought he was referring to the clutch chatter I have always experienced with this bike. I asked him to change the transmission fluid and he called me back to say that the fluid was gold in color and that something was coming apart in the transmission (see attached picture). After arriving at his house I paid him (Yes, he took my $300.00) and began to ride off. As soon as I attempted to accelerate I heard what sounded like gravel being poured into a metal can. I immediately stopped, turned around, and returned to the mechanics house. After explaining that the noise was NOT pre-existing he was unable to provide me with an explanation or a solution so I was forced to call the dealer for a tow. The bike is now unrideable and I totally regret having this mod done by someone I don't know or have never met.
If anyone knows what may have happened to my transmission from a sprocket installation please reply so I can try to understand myself. I do know this, he was having a difficult time removing the sprocket nut and had to seriously force it off. He almost had to cut it off but was able to get it loose after getting some help from a friend (or 2).
Picture of what he found after the installation
This is what I found after draining his fluid that he just put in a few hours ago. I only drove the bike for 2-3 minutes.