Thumping sound coming from the clutch basket area

Hi Ya'll, I am experiencing my first thumping sound in almost 8 years!! 2000 FXDWG, my heart, my baby, my love is thumping.. I checked the primary chain and adjusted, it was a little slack, but the thump is still there. Tomorrow I will open the derby cover and do a complete clutch adjustment. Do ya'll think that will work?, or does anyone know of a recall in that area? Any ideas are greatly appreciated.. Thanks, Jeannie

There's a double row ball bearing in the clutch hub that may be your thump. When it begins to go bad, the balls loose their cage so they can bunch together and since there are two rows, the bearing doesn't get out of balance quite yet. As the failure progresses, there is vibration and more noise Check it by removing the primary cover, grab the starter ring gear on opposite sides and forcefully try to rock the clutch hub. If it moves, the bearing needs replaced. I just discussed this problem with a knowledgeable parts man at the local dealer and he said Harley Davidson had upgraded that bearing due to the number of failures....Mine is going bad too and I also have a notable thumping, both audible and felt as a dull vibration. I'm gathering the parts to do the job myself.

Bill C.

Thanks Guys, I was out of commission today. My mower took a dive. I have replaced way too many 93.00 spindles, MTD>>>>> I called them and asked what mowers they don't make and then I went and bought one. So, I will try that tomorrow morning. I sure hope it is just needing an adjustment. I will let you know tomorrow.