Drive Belt - Buell 2004 XB9S Service Manual

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DRIVE BELT

GENERAL
The drive belt tension on a new belt will be considerably tight
and will loosen after approximately 1000 miles (1600 km).
The drive belt tension is automatically maintained by the idler
pulley. Axle alignment is not adjustable.
Replace drive belt and idler pulley assembly:
At every 25,000 mile (40,000 km) service interval.
INSPECTION
Rear Sprocket
If chrome chips or gouges to rear sprocket are large enough
to be harmful, they will leave a pattern on the belt face.
1. Inspect each tooth of rear sprocket for:
a. Major tooth damage.
b. Large chrome chips with sharp edges.
c. Gouges caused by hard objects.
d. Excessive loss of chrome plating (see Step 2).
2. To check if chrome plating has worn off, drag a scribe or
sharp knife point across the bottom of a groove (2)
(between two teeth) with medium pressure.
a. If scribe or knife point slides across groove without
digging in or leaving a visible mark, chrome plating
is still good.
b. If scribe or knife point digs in and leaves a visible
mark, it is cutting the bare aluminum. A knife point
will not penetrate the chrome plating.
3. Replace rear sprocket if major tooth damage or loss of
chrome exists.
1-26 2004 Buell Lightning: Maintenance
NOTE
Drive Belt
Refer toTable 1-7. Inspect drive belt for:
Cuts or unusual wear patterns on both sides of belt.
Outside edge bevelling (8). Some bevelling is common,
but it indicates that sprockets are misaligned.
Outside surface for signs of stone puncture (7). If cracks/
damage exists near edge of belt, replace belt immedi-
ately. Damage to center of belt will require belt replace-
ment eventually, but when cracks extend to edge of belt,
belt failure is imminent.
Inside (toothed portion) of belt for exposed tensile cords
(normally covered by nylon layer and polyethylene layer).
This condition will result in belt failure and indicates worn
transmission sprocket teeth. Replace belt and transmis-
sion sprocket.
Signs of puncture or cracking at the base of the belt
teeth. Replace belt if either condition exists.
Idler Pulley
See Figure 1-25. Inspect idler pulley for signs of uneven wear.
Excessive lateral side play of 0.020 in. (0.5 mm) or roughness
indicates worn bearings. Replace idler pulley as an assembly.
See 6.6 DRIVE BELT SYSTEM.
10124
Figure 1-25. Checking Lateral Side Play on Idler Pulley
with a Dial Indicator
CLEANING
Keep dirt, grease, oil, and debris off the belt, idler pulley and
sprockets. Clean the drive belt with a mild soap and water
spray solution as required. Dry thoroughly. Do not immerse
belt in solution.
1.10