Barnett Clutch Friction Plates For Harley Big Twin 1941-1983
Barnett Clutch Friction Plates: Premium Grip for Classic 4-Speed Big Twins
When it comes to maintaining a classic 1941–1983 Harley-Davidson Big Twin, the clutch is often the most critical link between the engine and the road. Barnett Friction Plates are engineered to replace worn-out OEM plates with modern materials that offer superior heat resistance and durability. Whether you are performing a concourse restoration on a Panhead or building a “hot rod” Shovelhead, Barnett provides the specific friction compound needed to keep your vintage 4-speed shifting smoothly.
Specialized Material Options
Barnett offers three distinct friction compounds to match your bike’s configuration and riding style:
- Kevlar (Aramid): The most popular choice for street use. Kevlar is incredibly durable and resistant to “glazing.” It offers a smooth, linear engagement and is ideal for long-distance touring and daily riding.
- Carbon Fiber: Designed for high-heat and high-performance applications. Carbon fiber plates provide a more aggressive “bite” and can handle the extra torque of stroker motors without slipping.
- Traditional Organic/Cork: Best suited for original-style restorations where a soft, vintage engagement feel is desired for stock-output engines.
Wet or Dry Compatibility
One of the unique challenges of vintage Harleys is the variety of primary setups. Barnett friction plates are engineered to be completely versatile. They perform flawlessly in a “wet” environment (running in an oil-bath enclosed primary) or a “dry” environment (common in aftermarket open-belt drive systems). The high-grade bonding agents ensure the friction material stays attached to the steel core regardless of the operating conditions.
Precision Fitment for 10-Segment Baskets
These plates are manufactured to strict tolerances to ensure they slide freely on the clutch hub and within the clutch shell segments. This precision prevents “clutch drag,” which is the leading cause of the difficult neutral-finding often associated with older 4-speed transmissions.
Fitment Guide (1941–1983)
This plate set is a direct replacement for the following Big Twin models:
- Knucklehead & Panhead: All 1941–1965 models.
- Shovelhead: 1966–1983 4-speed models (FL, FLH, FX, FXE, FXWG).
- OEM Cross-Reference: Designed to replace and upgrade Harley-Davidson Part #37930-41.
- Quantity: Most 4-speed setups require a set of 5 friction plates (verify your specific stack requirements).
Barnett Clutch Friction Plates For Harley
Since 1948, Barnett has specialized in manufacturing clutches and control cables that serve as direct-fit upgrades for nearly all two-wheeled vehicles. Proudly made in the USA, their products are crafted from the finest materials and designed with precision. Rigorous quality checks at every stage of production ensure that each Barnett clutch or cable delivers unparalleled performance and reliability.
Features:
Includes 5 friction plates
Designed to perform under extreme heat conditions
Allow smooth, precise shifting
100% asbestos free
Made with Barnett’s exclusive “molded” carbon fiber material
Can be run wet or dry
Replaces OEM
Made in the USA
| Product Style | AmericanV-twin Item # | Catalog Number | Store Sku | MFR. Product # | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Barnett Clutch Friction Plates For Harley Big Twin 1941-1983 | 11877 | 630-114 | 8341 | 302-30-30005 | In Stock: Ships within 24 hours |
Fitment Notes & Exceptions
1941-1967 models an extra steel plate.
Not for use with aluminum clutch shell.
This Product Fits
Harley Davidson
Disc Glide FXDG 1983
Electra Glide Classic FLHC 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982
Electra Glide Classic FLHTC/I 1983
Electra Glide Sport FLHS 1977-1983
Electra Glide Standard FLHT/I 1983
Fat Bob FXEF 1979, 1980, 1981
FL 1941-1965
FLF 1953-1964
FLFB 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969
FLH 1955-1983
FLHB 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969
FLHF 1955-1972
FLHFB 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969
Low Glide/Low Rider FXRS 1982, 1983
Low Rider Belt FXSB 1982
Low Rider FXS 1977-1982
Sport Glide FXRT 1983
Sturgis FXB 1980, 1981, 1982
Super Glide FX 1971-1979
Super Glide FXE 1974-1983
Super Glide II FXR 1982, 1983
Tour Glide Classic FLTC/I 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983
Tour Glide FLT 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983
Wide Glide FXWG 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983
