Special Tools for Gearbox Repairs

Once you will have removed the clutch on your Harley-Davidson model the gearbox usually can be dismantled without any special tools, despite … for the slotted nuts on models up to the mid 30es and still later on 45 models the proper wrench is the better choice of course.

The sentence "Once you will have removed the clutch" perfectly describes the core problem. The primary drive must be locked in order to untighten the front sprocket nuts and further the clutch hub nuts must be removed as well as the tranny sprocket nuts. For all these nuts you will need the proper high strength long version sockets.

Seal rings are best installed with proper drivers. Of course a big socket and a hammer may do, but there's a good chance that you break something with improper tools. So better get the right ones.

The same holds true for bearing and starter clutch drivers and extractors.

4-speed transmissions of Knucklehead, Panhead and Shovelhead will benefit from a shifter fork positioning gauge. This tool garantees you proper shifts and easily finding neutral.