Outer primary covers

[Robert Luland]

Got another mind blowing question. Went Pallet shelf hopping today looking for outer primary covers. Came across four pieces. All are 41-49 inspection cover holes at 3-9. Three are shallow where the front sprocket is. The forth one is the same thing but is bulged to except a compensating sprocket. Did Harley ever produce these or is it after market? I was under the impression that the compensator didn't show up until around 54. Thanks, Bob L

[Rubone]

It is aftermarket Bob,
The first H-D sold compensator was sold in '54 but it fit under the standard cover. There were also several brands of aftermarket compensator and they all fit under the stock cover as well. The only thing you sometimes find is a hole in the cover for grease access. No bulge. The reason the '55 and later cover has the big streamlined bulge is for the normal spring loaded splined shaft compensator used until it changed in '70. I have run across covers cut out to fit the late style compensator using a diamond type outer with an added on bulge that looks like an Indian Chief style bulge. Always homemade.
Robbie

[Robert Luland]

Thanks Rob, I can now have a clean conscience about cutting that sucker up for repair parts. Bob L