How do you remove clutch basket on a 1997 harley heritage softail?

Answer 1

Often people refer to the entire clutch assembly as the clutch basket, when in fact that term applies to the clutch drum only.

In any case, the entire clutch assembly must be removed to separate the drum from the hub. The clutch cannot be removed without also removing the chain and compensator.

Assuming you've drained the chaincase oil and removed the outer cover, first remove the nut that holds the chain tensioner to the inner primary cover. Then loosen the locknut in the center of the clutch and loosen the clutch adjuster screw several turns to relieve tension.

Next, remove the retaining ring (C-clip) that holds the release plate to the clutch hub and remove the plate with the adjuster screw still installed. This will expose the clutch nut.

Note: The clutch nut on all years of Harleys has a left hand thread! Turn the nut CLOCKWISE to loosen it. It's by far easiest to remove the nut with an impact wrench, but that's up to you.

Next, remove the compensator nut. It has right hand threads so you turn it counterclockwise to loosen it.

Now simply remove the clutch, chain, tensioner and compensator as a unit, being careful not to damage the threads on the mainshaft.

If you're separating the clutch hub from the drum you will need an arbor press and you will need to replace the clutch bearing.