Harley-Davidson used two distinctly different clutch lubrication methods in their 2001 models, and they fall into either the Sportster or Big-Twin categories. Big-Twin clutches are lubricated by the primary chaincase lubricant in the primary drive chaincase. This fluid is a different formula and is kept segregated from the transmission lubricant. Sportster models use a common lubricant for the primary chaincase and transmission. The lubricant is free to flow between the two components. Using the improper lubricant for the application, or overfilling the primary, can lead to poor shifting performance, clutch drag, and an unsafe riding condition.
Sportster
The Sportster primary and transmission holds 32 ounces of Harley-Davidson Sport-Trans Fluid, part number 98854-96. Hold the bike upright and level, on level ground. Remove the clutch inspection cover from the primary chaincase. Add fluid until the level reaches the bottom of the dark-colored clutch diaphragm spring. Do not overfill. Install the cover and torque the screws to 7 to 9 foot-pounds in a cross pattern.
Big-Twin
The Big-Twin primary chaincase holds approximately 26 ounces of Harley-Davidson Primary Chaincase Lubricant, part number 99887-84. Add fluid with the bike held upright and level until the fluid reaches the bottom edge of the diaphragm spring. Do not overfill. Install the inspection cover and torque the screws to 84 to 108 inch-pounds in the following clock-position pattern: 12, 7, 2,10 and 5 o'clock.
