Motorcycle Repair: primary, heat buildup, dumb question

Question
Mike:

My engine is an S&S 88” about seven years old; I have owned it almost four years.  For the first time I decided to check the primary fluid in this engine.  I took off the side view panel and noticed there wasn't any fluid at all within the primary.  I also noticed a little bit of shredding looked like fine rubber shards that were balled up.

Dumb question is it possible this enclosed primary could be designed to be a “dry primary” or did I overlook and important aspect of this engine?  I'm about to take the side case off but I wanted to check with you first before I continue.

Thanks...Roland


Answer
Anytime you have a primary belt it is always dry. The shredding is normal after time. What you need to get is a vented primary cover to cut down on the heat buildup in the primary. This will help the belt last longer.
Good luck and happy riding
Mike