The other day Tyler was riding into work and "BAM!?" his clutch cable snapped right in the parking lot at Lowbrow Customs. He's probably ridden 10 plus years on that same clutch cable (on his 1975 Harley FL Shovelhead chopper built by The Gasbox back around 2011). It was bound to happen eventually. We decided instead of just slapping a new one on real quick and calling it a day, this could be another great opportunity to teach and actually film how it's easily it is to change the clutch cable on a Harley Shovelhead.
Follow along with Todd as he gives you and in depth look on how to change, install and adjust a new clutch cable on Tyler's Harley Shovelhead. He also shares some helpful tips about the differences in early and late clutch cables and which clutch levers will work best for your style cable. Tyler's bike is using a high quality KustomTech clutch lever which actually can work for both early and late year clutch cables. So break out them tools, crack open an a beverage, and let's get to work!
For more how-to info, tips and tricks to maintaining your Harley Shovelhead, be sure to watch our Shovelhead DIY Tune & Service Video! It is free, and at two hours long it is full of loads of great content.
NOTE: With Tyler's Shovelhead chopper being a custom build, a few things may look a little different, but the over all concepts are the same when it comes time to replace your clutch cable.
If you are in need of more help or questions feel free to contact us any time!
Subscribe to the Lowbrow Customs YouTube channel to check out all of our videos. We spend a lot of time and effort creating motorcycle how-to videos and event coverage for your enjoyment. You can also visit our Blog for more awesome how-to videos and guides like this! Please let us know what you think and leave a comment at the bottom of this post.
Lubing the new clutch cable for this Harley Shovelhead
Installing the new Harley Shovelhead clutch cable on the clutch lever.
Adjusting the Harley Shovelhead clutch cable adjuster near the clutch release arm.
Time Stamps on how to install and adjust clutch cable on Harley Shovelhead:
00:01 - Intro
00:42 - Removing the broken clutch cable from the lever.
01:18 - Removing the snap ring and the pin to take off the clutch lever.
02:07 - KustomTech clutch lever overview and how it works with both styles of early and late clutch cables.
03:27 - Stock lever of a late Harley will use barrel pin.
03:44 - Why won't the Drag Specialties FL, FX, and XL clutch lever work for my newer Harley?
05:26 - How to install the new Shovelhead clutch cable into a Kustom Tech clutch lever demonstration.
06:27 - Removing the broken clutch cable from the clutch release arm on top of the transmission and clutch cable bracket.
07:26 - Quick overview of on how to adjust your clutch.
08:04 - LUBE YOUR NEW CABLE!
09:57 - Installing the new clutch cable into a Kustom Tech lever.
10:50 - Installing the new clutch cable into the clutch cable bracket and clutch release arm.
11:46 - Check your free play.
12:26 - Lock your clutch cable nut down to the cable bracket.
12:38 - FINISHED! Shovelhead lives to ride another day!
13:02 - Now get out there and go for a ride, WOOOoooOOO!
Related Products
