[NickyNuts]

Just finished reading the thread debates on the Hayden M6 Tensioner and the stock Harley. Both units seem to have had problems on an individual basis. I was wondering if anyone has done any mods on the stock tensioner. I.E. Has anyone experimented with grinding off the ratcheting teeth on the stock unit. I don't know if it is possible or necessary to disassemble the unit to do that but it seems the knock on the stock unit is there is no downward flex allowed due to the locking action of the teeth and no one mentioned spring tension issues on the stock unit. Any thoughts or experience with this?

 

[ironmark]

I used both the stock and the Hayden and I run the stock 90% of the time. To me the Hayden kept the chain too tight so I put the stock tensioner back in.
The way the HD tensioner is designed it shouldn't ratchet too tight so I don't see no need to modify it.
I just swapped out my clutch hub bearing on my 08 and the bike has over 100,000 miles on it and the bearing was still good, I just put in a new engine so I change everything in the primary just for general maintenance.

 

[FrankieB]

Set the proper tension then spot weld it if you are worried about it ratching to tight.

 

[RGKen]

I don't believe all the hype about the issues with the stock tensioner. Run what you feel comfortable with and don't worry about it. I have about 9k on my 120ST with the stock tensioner. I took the primary cover off last week to see how everything is and all looked great. I will also add that this is the same tensioner that was in for 47k with my 110.

 

[bigsixman]

Set the proper tension then spot weld it if you are worried about it ratching to tight.

^^^^^This is what an owner did that I met at the 2014 Sturgis Rally. He said that he had tried 2 or 3 different brands of tensioners and he put the stock one back in and set it and welded it up.

He was satisfied with his results and it was on a 124" modified motor.

 

[glide69]

I can tell you I destroyed a Hayden M6! I had to put the stock unit back in. I currently have a Hydraulic unit sitting on the bench to be installed over the winter. It is a well made piece offered from SO Hot Bikes check there You Tube video. I figured couldn't go wrong for $130!!

 

[NickyNuts]

glide69,
When you get it installed, let us know how it went and your first ride impression. Only time will tell if it performs as advertised.

 

[glide69]

glide69,
When you get it installed, let us know how it went and your first ride impression. Only time will tell if it performs as advertised.

Will do but it wont be until spring. If it holds up to my abuse then its a good unit!!

 

[ldireprophil]

I replaced my the stock one on my 2012 CVO with the Hayden M6 Tensioner. Cheap and easy install, zero problems with it for over 2 years now.

 

[nytryder]

I installed the m6 in my '12 RGU . Seemed way too tight so before buttoning up the primary I called Hayden with my concerns. Was told no problem it will wear in. Pulled the primary after 2000 mi and found it had not worn in and called Hayden again. Was told sometimes it takes a little longer. Against my better judgement I ran the damn thing for about 4000 mi longer. Pretty much destroyed most of what spins around inside the primary. Nobody from Hayden comes on the forums anymore for fear of being confronted about their piece of shit tensioner.