"Oh... you got one of those bikes" was the reaction from folks when I got my first Harley Davidson. Except it was a 79 ironhead on a hardtail frame that was a kick start only. That was trial by fire. I'd do it all over again though.
I would imagine you know how and keep up with the maintenance too, Shovels are excellent motors if you take care of them. Most issues with the Shovel are just by pure neglect and not knowing how to take care of one.
@Al Gottsch The five speed is the way to go. I would recommend a belt primary. Am running solid lifters with a higher cam. S&S Super B. Go with the E as the B has no accelerator pump. ENJOY!!!
@Al Gottsch That ought to surprise some people. If they hear the lope and know the sound of a stock shovel, they might figure it out. On the road you ought to surprise quite a few. Sounds like a great build. Take lot's of pictures. I forgot to take pictures before the build. Sure wish I had.
Yeah, it seems that most bike channels are more into trying to sell you something than just about giving you good info. Most bike channels are 'aftermarket,' shops anyway, which is why they are into always wanting to build your bike, bigger, stronger, more HP and ofcourse… More $$$. However, the buyer seems always between buying a stock HD, with all the 'crap,' in them, or opting to spend the money to have their bike overhauled using aftermarket products, so at least you know your bike is sound, safe and dependable. It's like buying a bike twice, when it comes to HD anyway. I own the '04,' TC 88ci, on the Heritage soft tail. So I break into a sweat, every time I start her up!
Sorry to be so offtopic but does any of you know of a trick to get back into an instagram account..? I was stupid forgot the account password. I would love any assistance you can give me.
@Landry Gael thanks for your reply. I got to the site thru google and im waiting for the hacking stuff now. I see it takes quite some time so I will get back to you later with my results.
Thank you very much! I have to buy my first Harley Davidson, and you have provided me with a lot of useful information on the various engines and editions. One of the best Harley channels with very clear explanations.
Glad I could help! That's why I do this, I would see someone buy a 88 for cheap and then end up needing a motor. There's a lot of quirks on used Harleys but it's best to at least know what you're getting into.
Great info for a H-D,D newbie. I had a 2000 TC88 that was completely dependable for 123K miles and now have a 2018 M8 also a very good machine. I did a can, oil pump and cam plate. What a fun strong and reliable motorcycle as well. I think the secret is regular maintenance as you have preached in the past. Thanks for your information always enjoyable.
Appreciate all you do and the fact the info is free.after almost 40 years of shovelhead riding I've been looking at upgrading (if you wanna. Call it that ) to an evo or a Twinkie. And the info you put out has really helped on what to look out for or what I might expect to come across in the future. Thanks.again, Big Dog ✌
Thank you, I appreciate it! Going up from a Shovel it's really just what kind of potential issues do you want to deal with, Evo is pretty safe bet though.
I recently Bought a 2000 Road King classic with 946 miles on it. I replace the front motor mount, went with the hydraulic cam plate, and spring primary chain tensioner. Luckily I found a Harley shop that will work on my bike, but there is a local shop that can do the work as well. I’m in my late 60s and just don’t have patience to work on my bikes anymore. I do love the 88 in.³ and the bike is stock other than the repairs I did have done.
Bought 2012 FLHRC 103 with only 1600 miles. Got bugs worked out and all upgrades I wanted like suspension, seat, bars, etc and still 1/2 price of new bike. I'm very happy so far.
I am happy with my Evo 1988 FLHTC Electra Glide Classic. It has enough power for me, even riding with a passenger and towing a trailer. It did fine at Interstate speeds, even creeping up to 85 mph sometimes. Only problem is the cassette tape is stuck in the stereo so if I am out of range of any radio stations then I have to listen to the previous owner's Merle Haggard tape.
Sounds like I didn’t do too bad when I bought three bikes last fall. My 103 SG was referred to me by a buddy at a dealership. I then stumbled across a 01 Sporty with only 5600 miles on it for $3000 for my son. Then my wife wanted a bike so did some searching and found an 02 Dyna with 6000 miles on it. Guy priced it at $5000 and before we got there to check it out, he dropped the price to $4500. After talking with him, we left with the bike for $4000. Sounds like I didn’t do too hateful for knowing nothing about Harley’s. Love you vids by the way.
@@GixxerFoo Thanks man. Did a few cosmetic mods to each of them over the winter and did a Comp Master clutch on my street glide with different primary chain tensioner. Ready for this snow to go away so we can get back to riding. Stay safe bud, and keep the awesome vids coming.
Picking up my (new to me) '04 Fat Boy in about a week. My Sierra Red beauty would've been in my trailer last weekend if the weather had cooperated. ☹ So I want to thank you for all the great info you've been pouring out since I found and subscribed to your channel a couple of months ago. This one was another well presented rundown on the last several motors that HD has built. I gotta say, Harley Davidson sure has some iconic motor names that no other manufacturer has. "Evo", "Twin Cam", "Pan Head", "Shovel Head" etc. Also, there is an independent shop down the road from me who has a good rep, so The Motor Company has done these guys a big favor and now I know why he's swamped with work !
Thank you I appreciate you watching and supporting us! Hopefully this weather will break and we can all get out do some riding. We've been buried in snow and ice here for a while now, just now getting thawed out and then get to deal with sand on the roads.
Great video brother very informative. I've noticed within the group I ride there's 7 guys with the 2005- 2006 non-dyna TC88 engine. They seem to hold up really well and have very few issues with the factory cam tensioners and shoes. I've personally witnessed these multiple bikes all get over 60,000 miles with original tensioners and shoes still intact. One of those bikes had cams installed and the hydraulic tensioner/ plate& pump upgrade performed at 87,000 miles and still had half the shoe left . This guy was mildly aggressive with his riding style and kept his maintenance up regularly. On any of them mechanical maintenance is paramount. Make sure you find one that is worth what you're paying.
I just sold my m8 softail and bought an evo softail. Nowhere near the power but so much more fun to ride. I was just tired of the lack of reliability in the newer engines and all the electronic junk. Simplicity is worth more to me and I love that evo sound and mechanical feel. But whatever floats your boat.
If I were to consider anything I'd prefer a 1998. They did most everything right in that year, the cam bearings were INA style bearings and will need changed along with the upgraded dash B lifters. Good to see you elaborated on the inner cam bearings. Also the 1998 was the beginning of the 9 disc clutch set up
I rode the old 74 Inch Shoveled for many years. Great and fun engine to tinker with and you will tinker with it. I had an 80 inch Evo Heritage I purchased new for 14 years and never had an issue. I bought a new 2010 Heritage 96 inch new and had the orange pro tuner and upgraded the 96 to stage II. I now ride a 2021 114 Tri Glide that just got over the 500 mile break-in. I Loved all of these bikes and all had their own little stories. But I believer the one that carried me the farthest, 65,000 miles was the 94 Evo Heritage, my overall favorite bike My 2010 Heritage is one beautiful stock bike in emaculate shape and with the SE 259e cams, will run like a bat out of hell. I will miss that bike. Now riding the trike, it is a different game. Jerry Hubbard Irmo, South Carolina
That's awesome, I always regret selling bikes after I spent many years and miles on them. Evo is an excellent engine, hopefully your new Tri Gilde will be just as reliable!
I love my 96" road king. I also have a 1999 evo 883. They have both been great engines and I would buy them all over again. The carbs on the sporty need bigger jets than stock to perform, as big as you can get really.
Thanks for sharing what you know. I have a 2003 Vrod and 2019 Heritage 114. No issues so far. In fact, the engine is pretty great in both. Maybe, others have had a different experience but I am well pleased.
That 114m8 is where its at! Way better than the 107. Excellent power and easily maintained. Long life and easy to upgrade. They just came out with a 131 jugs and piston set. Still gotta get the manifold. But with a intake exhaust and cam, pssshhh out of this world. RELATIVELY its a cheap upgrade to have the best of the best.
1988 Evo, 2002 FXDL 88 > 95SE, 2019 114 RGS. EVO (bone stock) seems to sound meaner and neglected (until very recently) and it runs fine. TC-95SE has been rock solid and sounds mean. 114 Road Glide is really nice but it’s pricey. Thing cost as much as my Tacoma TRD Off Road. It is a road chariot though. TC-95 probably my favorite though. It’s really the first bike I built. It just refuses to die 😂
After lots of reviewing on my first bike yes my first bike i was drawn to a 80 cu in evo stock. From original owner who had engine rebuilt cause of retainer pin was missing from front cylinder piston an the guy who rebuilt it is well known for working on harleys. So i got a 4,200 mile on a 1995 electra glide classic. Love it.
I have just bought a 1996 Ultra Classic and am learning the Magneti Marelli injection. From what I’ve seen and heard it works well as long as you leave it alone and not modify anything.
That's the key is leaving it alone, but that goes against owning a Harley. There are aftermarket upgrades and replacements for the system that are interesting!
Don't forget about the 2000s Touring 96s that have the issue of the high up crossover exhaust that cracked, then costs $200+ to replace... unless you switch over to true duals... did that on my 2007 Roadking.
Soon as I heard you dropped a new video I had to come in and give a like. I'm subscribed with that Bell icon. I absolutely love your videos as a HD Tech. Keep rocking it man you're amazing.
I bought my 1986 Evolution FXR in 1991 and have upgraded everything except the frame, primary and oil tank. My club brothers all ride Road/Street- glides and buy a brand-new one every three years. I could pay cash for a 2022 CVO today (though not responsibly), but I prefer my FXR.
There's just so much to be said about those FXR's, they have a lot of character. You get a new Road/Street Glide, sure they are very nice but you see them everywhere. I've have friends that have "lost" their bikes before since so many of them look exactly alike.
The wife and I just started getting into harleys and bought our first one for her, It's a 95 king evo. I'm still undecided if I'll go for an Evo myself or twin cam 103 as talked about here. Honestly though most decisions come based on budget lol.
Hey dude, I really appreciate your videos! I'm in sales, and I really wanna build the biggest and baddest dyna around. All of your videos are super informative and help me with both selling used bikes, and the upgrades I wanna do on my own bike! Thank you!
The most bulletproof Harley Davidson to bay used is an evo big twin between 1986-1990 they easy runs for 150k miles without much problems,my 1992 dyna glide had weak cam bearing who ruin the cam gears and bendfront inlet valve who goes furter down and wear out front rod bearing,i think t was after i changed the cam bearing cam and pinion gear,that some how i bent inlet valve and ruin rod bearing. 1990-1992 are hard to come by new pinion gears since they only was made for two years and the green one is hopeless to find,and my friend have an 1985 FXR and he serves it when he remember it,he drive it really hard and the bike have some 95k miles on the clock it has begin to use an little bit oil but not so much that worries him,and my old 1989 FXLR was an totally diffrent bike that the dyna i owns now,the engine on my old one was running more smootley than the engine on the dyna glide
Another good video with great advice. Make sure to test ride and take note of any non-stock exhausts. Straight pipes or glass packs are common and may make the engine run lean if not correctly jetted. When looking at engines take note of the bike’s weight. My ride is an ‘04 Dyna and the twin cam 88 has more than enough power for cruising, even in the mountains. The guys who were upsizing this engine were mainly riding touring models that weigh considerably more. None of my friends were into the performance mods so no experience with that. Carbs on Harley’s do require attention from time to time due to the vibration they live with, but that is very manageable. My Dyna has the 5 speed transmission. On back roads averaging 50 mph I was shifting relatively often. The six speed is something I would like to have.
Reflecting a little more: the low RPM torque of a Harley big twin is my source of riding joy. The effortless acceleration is relaxing. I now know why old Cadillacs and other large luxury cars had big block V8s, it was not the power but the torque. Smoothly accelerating without fuss or excessive noise was luxury itself. Thats the vibe the twin cam gives me. My cage is a Dodge Cummins 2500, perhaps I’m displaying a trend ?
I have 25k on a TC 88 made 11/98. Cam chain shoes have very little wear. Chrome on the covers isn't good. Stator oil seal has a slight leak. Everything else is holding up great I'd say. It's my 3rd Harley and doesn't get wet. Still got the paper label inside the front fender.
That's awesome! Some of those bikes roached tensioners within 10K miles! That's why I always say every bike is different and not all the tensioners failed.
Luckily my Dealership, New River HD in Jacksonville NC still works on any bike. I have a 2005 Electra Glide I just got that needed the cam tensioners replaced, thought I was getting a great deal!! To be fair, the lady I got the bike from, her husband died on Fathers Day, and she doesn't know anything about the bike. The bike still looks almost brand new, only 31K on it. Getting a new cam plate, cams, and tensioner upgrade. Thanks for the videos and information!
I have to say I love my 2006 twin cam... ok the sound isn't as pure as my previous panhead was. I do miss the sound of loose bolts and ball bearings bouncing around in the crank case and gear box. In the meantime until I finish my panhead project I can live with the twin cam's smoothness. Either that or take my 1996 evo out for a spin. Now if I had a real life outside of my bikes this would be bragging. : )
Great video. The best bang for the buck is an 88" 2001 /2002 carb. Great engines and with a little work a very strong engine but it's getting hard to find a nice one for a fair price.
Very informative, right to the point. I enjoy your videos. Keep going ! I have just a nice old panhead, that I love, but I dont know much about the newer bikes
Thanks, will do! Pan Heads are high dollar these days, honestly they are basically the same bottom end up to the Twin Cam. The shovel got the update from the distributor and generator, but not a whole lot different.
Great job...went with the 2008 105th anniversary flhtcu ultra touring TC96. Will check chain tensioner shoes, read that they last 80 to 100k miles. How often to check? Bike has 72k miles. Thanks...Jose
Fuel injection has it's benefits for sure, it just doesn't have that lope without like a carbed bike. They sound good when you get a nice cam in there though!
Good review something positive for a change instead of all the negativity been hearing about 2007 Softail Night Trains ; ) Picking up a Dyna Fatbob 103 2015 this week, missed the (mild) high output cam by a year and didnt fancy the 2017 as has egr fitted. I know you can cut them out. Had originally intended to buy a 2007 Night Train but seems them things are a bottomless pit of needs upgrades and mods, moreso for my 6ft2 stature, plus the bikes appeal as I've grown older has wained and comfort seems a lot more appealing. Owned a 2008 Fatbob and really enjoyed it, bike fitted me out of the box but alas couldnt afford to keep it back then. Its an age old story that Harley knew the twin cam ran hot, they couldnt decide whether to run it with a cooler or larger fins, we know how that turned out.
The 96's had the compensator problem, but that's not an easy fix with a Dark Horse Eliminator. Harley riders just weren't used to fuel injection and the lean afr at the time so that reputation stuck. But a flash tune and that will be taken care of pretty easily.
I guess I'm lucky proud owner of a 1998 fatboy with 13000 miles and a 103 HO stage 4 111hp, 115 torque. Screaming eagle 103 to 103 kit 2014 street glide. Runs great. I would like to go back to manual clutch so I could catch the clutch sooner. 🎉
@@GixxerFoo mine did lol. 2011 fxdf had stator rotor incorporated with comp spring pack( terrible design) failed at just over 15k. replaced with comp eliminator.....a little jerky in town so replaced with dark horse and baker attitude adjuster . Perfect compromise.
Softail - twin cam ( unless you are ok with going no more than 45mph .... then EVO ! 👌👍💪) Dyna - TC or EVO ( TC - more power, EVO - more respect 💪 ) FXR - good luck finding 2000 fxr4 for less than $10,000 ( Eric Buell designed the frame by the way) Touring - M8 is pretty awesome! Best sounding Harley/old school HD - Shovel, Pan, Knuckle . They are all great 👍 P.S. would like to know your opinion on why the inferior chassis - dyna , lived till 2017 and an FXR died in 2000 ! 🤔 Always Great content on this channel 👌
Dmitry, This article explains the history: deadbeatcustoms.com/blog/history-of-the-harley-davidson-fxr/ Basically, The Motor Company must make the models that customers want to purchase. Old hardcore Harley fans considered the frame too “Japanese”. That’s not an opinion I have. I find the Dyna Glide comfortable and handles well. I must admit, though, I was drawn to the XR1200 a decade ago. Never pulled the trigger or rode one but to me it seemed like the ultimate runabout,
Love your channel. I bought a 2009 Road King. Twin 96 with only a stage one. I'm more of a cruiser, low rpm, torque guy. Engine seems fine with 70,000 miles on it. Compensator seems fine, clutch is ok but thinking maybe a replacement in the future. When cold and coming to the first stop it doesn't release completely right away. After that it's fine. Maybe just needs the friction plates replaced. Thanks again for up here on the west coast of Canada
With 70K a new set of plates wouldn't hurt, they may be original. I would check the tensioner shoes too with that kinda mileage. They will run a long time and they aren't too bad to work on at all!
Great, informative video. Here in England my Harley dealership still services my 21 year old 2000 88 Twin Cam, why wouldn't they since most bikes that they work on will still be the Twin Cam.
Fortunately from me my wife's sister lives in Flagstaff Arizona so we regularly tour the States. The one thing that is very expensive for us is renting a Harley, so after a couple of years we decided to buy one, we now have a 2011 Heritage 96 which made me even more interested in what you had to say about those as well as the 88. One of the first things I ever did to the 88 was to convert it to gear driven cams. You would love touring the UK, though make sure you have some wet weather gear as you cant rely on having good weather.
I am learning a lot from your videos. Congratulations 🎉 great content. I own my first Harley-Davidson Ultra Limited 2010 with a 103CI I don’t know what kind of engine is. So far I don’t have any complaints. I hope I did a good decision. I do really love my bike. Thank You 😊
I have a few issues with some of your opinions about some of the motors you talk about in the video but I want to talk about one ! You have mention a couple times about EVO lifters every 40 k miles I've been working on harleys for 30 + years and the only lifters I've absolutely had to replace were early Evo bikes ! I raced an Evo bike for years & other than throwing a intake pushrod out at the starting line ( lifter was fine ) it was a 715 lift cam that caused that ( finally cured with fixed length pushrods ) you see the exhaust pushrod is in the same spot as a twin cam . I know this for fact because I have built a few Sputhe engineering Fatvo motors Evo bottom end with TC cyclinders & heads the intake pushrod is off by about a quarter inch + or - ! So where did you get that info at ?
@@GixxerFoo I can't help think that's a bit weak . Was the bearings in the roller gone or the hydraulics in the lifter body collapsed ? Both can be from low oil pressure not because of pushrod angle ! Anyway it's my opinion everybody has one ! I have restored motors & I have built all out hotrod motors & I have never seen anything caused by pushrod angle . I spit out a couple pushrods in the burnout box but I was running small block Chevy valve springs 250 lbs on the seat ! Adjustable pushrods don't like that !
I have a 2003 88cu lowrider 84,500 miles, upgraded to hydraulic shoes at 45k. wanted to add a streetglide to my stable was pretty specific it needed to be a Rushmore model with a 103....I found a 2014 with 7900 miles this past October and snagged it up
When I bought my 01 road glide with the magneti morelli in it it lasted 3 years and then the cam chain tensioner blew and rather than rebuild the engine I built a new engine from screaming eagle and put a super e s&s carb on it runs great I use the thunderheart ignition system and haven't had any problems in years
@@GixxerFoo when I bought it it had 7,000 miles on it I flew up to Springfield Massachusetts and rode it home it had 10,500 miles on it when the cam chain snapped it put a little bit of a mark on the inside of the chain housing. This was all the excuse I needed so I did research on the internet and rather than have screaming eagle build an engine filled with crap I ordered the CNC heads the 4.070 Pistons the 4.060 jugs the crankshaft and the cases separately.
Awesome video thanks… new to the Harley family this spring.. 2016 softail heritage classic 103HO love the bike and everything about it… it likes to ping if I’m too quick on the throttle but not always.. I blame it on using gas pumps with one hose and the first litre or two in the hose is probably low octane… and being still stock it’s on the lean side… thanks for the great videos I learn from each one.
Welcome aboard! Pinging is a lot to do with the stock tune, you get a Power Vision or a FP3 tune it will make a world of difference. Even a stock improved tune with the stock pipes and air cleaner.
Shovel head is the best sounding & best looking Harley ever made no doubt about it. Mine is in process of a rebuild after 40,000 hard miles on this build
@@GixxerFoo 40,000. Miles is on this build not the bike. It’s a 96” 3 5/8 x 4 5/8 stroke S&as cases, flywheels, pump & pistons with STD heads. 4050 v- thunder cam , Jim’s lifters & rods. I really beat it pretty bad as it is a street & strip build. Ran it a few times on the strip but mostly just having fun. Now it’s getting more compression & bigger cam. Fly wheels being rebuilt Better head job. Lol it’s going to Rock
@@GixxerFoo I wasn’t going to rebuild but the frame was cracked and once the motor was out found another crack under the seat post. It was running pretty good I thought but the valve guides & springs were shot & found out the fly wheels were not balanced properly, in fact they were way out of balance. That’s the way it is with high pro shovelheads when you go to fix one thing you always find a lot more than you planned on. 😳😜
With a 2006 dyna 88, should a priority be to change the already hydraulic cam plate, or to change the tensioner shoes? I would do the cam bearings and the lifters but the cam plate and oil pump and the job ads up when I’m doing my own work.
2006 is isn't bad at all, you don't have to worry about tensioners unless it's got 30k or more. Just take a peak and make sure they are good to go or need service. Other than there really isn't much to worry about that year unless something doesn't sound or feel right.
No matter what you are buying unless you take it apart down to the engine case you won't know what you've got. Things can go through wrecks and be totaled but somehow end up in another frame and because it still runs someone is able to sell it. That's what happened to me. Fortunately I got 7+ years of use out of it before I found out it was not rebuildable due to damage that occurred at some point in it's life.
I have a 2006 fatboy I bought used in july. Ive put on about 1500mi on it with no problems. It's got 19000 on it and seems to have been taken good care of .previous owner replaced the cam chain tensioner, other than that it has the vance and Hines pipes and is fuel injected. I sure don't need any more power cause I'm 68 years old it goes plenty fast. Just wondering if you know of anything else I need to look at.
I am running a 2016 twinky 103 HO I bought new. I done the usual air intake, exhaust and tuner changes. I installed an oil cooler and run the bigger depth oil filter to increase oil capacity. This engine has been absolutely trouble free and makes excellent power everywhere. Having ran pans, knocks and evo’s over many years, I truly feel the 103 HO is as good as it gets.
i have a 1990 flhs almost new when i got it and still have it. 50,000 miles. original belt, cams , pistons , heads ,exhaust. had to do base gaskets twice. had to pull trans cluster out to replace a broken shifter return spring. volt regulator once. jet kit, k&n filter. check dressser models before 2010 for frame rust out at where back of trans mounts to frame. water trapped inside hollow frame gusset area. caused rust through at that spot. had to clean out the rust and treat all work done at home. 31 years. will try for 31 more.
Thanks for this edition GixxerFoo, you saved me some money and worry about the 2006 Dyna Wide Glide that I bought last December. With all the talk about the spring cam chain tensioners I was going to replace the cam plate and add hydraulic tensioners, but from what you said here my 88 twin cam already has them. Thanks for putting out these informative videos for this newbie to Harley ownership.
2006 was a very strange year for the Dyna, it was really kind of a hybrid engine between the outgoing 88 and incoming 96. It had the hydraulic tensioners and believe it also had the newer style 96 heads on it, it's a heck of time trying to find cams for those engines. But honestly best year of the 88 they ever made and only the Dyna had that motor.
Great channel a lot of good info. Just wondering why the HD Switchback gets little info or tips. I have a 2012 and just love it’s size & power with the 103. I needed a mid range touring and this fits perfectly. I am gravity challenged @5’6 easily reaching ground with heeled footwear. Super ride with a Lucky Dave’s Stepup seat. Perhaps you could show something on them, I Really like it !!
I love the Swithcback! It's like a Road King but I don't have to turn the wheel to the right to get it off the stand. They feel super light too, put a batwing fairing on one and the dual exhaust and it looks just like a Street Glide! Not a bad idea on a video, it's really a hidden gem in used bikes if you can find one.
I love my 2006 Road King 88 twin cam. But I think I will go with a 103 twin cam I loved my 16 FatBob with the 103 I had cams,high flow air,pipes,tuner and the jugs cooling fans with the larger oil cooler. It was a shame it was ran over in the parking lot at the gas station...
@@GixxerFoo the guys in his Dad's jacked up Chevy 2500 said he didn't see my bike with the pump handle in the tank. He crushed my forks,wheel,handle bars, tank and cracked the frame. He parked on top and got out and said" what Fuck was I thinking!!!" I just called the cops they so the video from the station.
I put a S&S Dragon T143 in my bagger, still working the bugs out n also put a Evolution clutch in n she blew apart. EVOLUTION give me another 1 under warranty. So b back out again this wk. she's also got nitrous on board but still doing 1 more tune on motor first. SHES LIKE RIDING A CROTCH 🚀 ROCKET ON THE STREET!...🥳🤠😎✌
Great videos 👍. I have a 2007 softail deluxe 96". Love the bike. Came to me with stage 1 tuned. Living in Newfoundland Canada we ride in cooler weather spring and fall. Wondering if you have any suggestions on a good set, I mean really hot, heated grips? Thanks for the great videos and keep up the good work. Kent. Ps, out riding in 3 degree weather. Had to scratch that itch.
Very cool! Do have heated gear as well? Kuryakyn are make some pretty good heated grips. It's really hard to find a set of heated grips that match your bike since the options get pretty limited. Harley has pretty wide selection of heated grips but they aren't super hot, they work well though.
@@GixxerFoo no heated gear yet. Didn't need it for my 06 goldwing I just sold last year. Always wanted a harley. Wife can't ride anymore so I seen my chance to get that Harley for myself 🤣. Thanks for the reply. Ride safe.
So my 2003 RK has a roller bearing lower end. It also has 99,600 miles on it. What is wrong with the roller bearing design? The motor is stock with stage 1
I have a 2006 Dyna Street Bob with an 88 tc. I thought all twin cams have spring cam chain tensioner. Are you saying my bike has a hydraulic cam chain tensioner?
Yes for 2006 the Dyna line only had the hydraulic tensioners and a different set of heads. The cam bearings are different as well too. It's more closely related to the 96.
I have a 2000 twin cam 88 with that throttle body they only made for a couple years. When the time comes what would be a good dependable upgrade/replacement for that throttle body ? Love the video thanks man.
You have Mag system, I would check out Zippers fuel systems. They have some nice upgrades for those systems, they are an excellent choice if you ever need a replacement.
I prefer the Evo with a couple exceptions, which I learned from personal experience. 86-90 Sportster and the redheaded bastard stepchild 84 1/2 FXR. Neither are problems with the engine, but the primaries on both are a headache.
My local bike shop loves working on Harleys but all the owners take them to the offical dealer and get charged through the nose. I'm in NI so the (only) dealer passes on older bikes to another shop while they push newer bikes
Im sure Im off topic, but wanted share cuz your info is great.. I just traded wifes 2020 Iron 883 in for a 2021 Softail StreetBob. Its an impressive ride and she loves it ! I immediately put a Saddleman Stepup seat on it, because its got enough torque to slide her right off the back of stock seat.. lol
My 04 hd road king has 93,000 miles with the gear drive cams ,do I need to check the end play? I put new screaming eagle lifters in it at around 80,000 miles. It doesn’t use oil , no oil leaks and runs strong and it is a 95 inch.
I’ve got a 2018 street glide special and my step father has a 2017 road glide and haven’t had any sumping issues at all or primary to trans fluid transfer both are just stage 1’s. Does it occur more in m8’s that have cam upgrades? TIA
It mainly shows up on M8's that rode for long stretches at a steady speed, it's varied so much but that seems to be the general consensus of how it starts. If you do add a performance cam it's a great time to update the cam plate with a high volume oil pump, that's been the fix is the high volume oil pump.
Personally I would go with a fan assisted oil cooler, it depends on you're needs. If you are in traffic a lot, the Love Juggs would be a good way to go.
Evo Rigid sportster 1200 and going to buy an shovelhead softail when i find one in Europe:P Fuel injected Harleys never sound as good as old carb motors, definitely agree on that.
It's one of those weird things it wasn't all bikes, if you had a sumping issue they would install the updated oil pump. Some had issues with blow by through the rings, they would get you a new set of pistons and rings if needed.
@@GixxerFoo Dealer tried to get me up to a used M8 but I never buy bleeding edge stuff. Now to add cooling systems to the bike b4 it gets too hot out there.
To add also I had a 2009 and even though they had hydraulic shoes tensioners they were gone at 48,000 mile the inside one was. The one you can’t see also my cam the hardness had worn off and the pump had scoring. All from normal use using good synthetic 2050 oil so in my case there’s some short Cummings with this motor also it doesn’t hurt to pull the cover off and take a look in there once you start getting to 40,000 miles My front wheel bearing was gone at 18,000 miles and made noise and my compensator was gone at 20,000 miles. But I did like that bike but I went back to an Evo 1998. Which I still have
40 to 50K is about normal wear on the hydraulic tensioners, it's far better than the projected 30k on spring tensioners. Well if you made 30K on a spring tensioners your were lucky!
That was always the big thing about the Sportster was 2.1 gallon peanut tank, get you about 80 miles lol. I was happy when they started putting the 3.3 gallon on and then the 4.5 gallon on the custom.
I recently brought a 2002 heritage. It has a branch 95 kit on it with branch heads and cams. 110 hp out of a twin cam. She a sleeper but I do have to upgrade the cam plate. Such a bummer. Lol
great info, but man I am expecting that shelf to give out at any second 😂
🤦♂️ replacement of that shelf is gonna get it's own video
hahaha I was thinking the same for a while now😂
@@GixxerFoo please do, it will fix my OCD😆
We've all been patiently waiting...
Is that shelf under warranty?🤔😂😎
"Oh... you got one of those bikes" was the reaction from folks when I got my first Harley Davidson. Except it was a 79 ironhead on a hardtail frame that was a kick start only. That was trial by fire. I'd do it all over again though.
Those are the best bikes though! Those are the bikes that teach you how to put pistons in the cylinders without ring compressors.
@@GixxerFoo Sure enough
@@GixxerFoo Hey man. I left you an IM on your instagram.
My first bike was the ole mans 81 shovel 🤘
I'm building a kick only pan! Can't wait to get it finished
Shovel. In 35 years it's never made me walk. Waiting for spring in MN.
I would imagine you know how and keep up with the maintenance too, Shovels are excellent motors if you take care of them. Most issues with the Shovel are just by pure neglect and not knowing how to take care of one.
@Al Gottsch The five speed is the way to go. I would recommend a belt primary. Am running solid lifters with a higher cam. S&S Super B. Go with the E as the B has no accelerator pump. ENJOY!!!
@Al Gottsch That ought to surprise some people. If they hear the lope and know the sound of a stock shovel, they might figure it out. On the road you ought to surprise quite a few. Sounds like a great build. Take lot's of pictures. I forgot to take pictures before the build. Sure wish I had.
My dad's not around anymore. His 81 shovel still gets rode daily. 40 years old and still gettin it.
@@brandonmacon3317 That's very cool Brandon. Your keeping a part of his legacy alive and well. You can pretty much bet that he's smiling.
There are many Harley info sites out there, but hands down Gixxer, yours is the absolute best and most informative!!!
I really appreciate that! I just like to give the beers in the shop run down lol.
Yeah, it seems that most bike channels are more into trying to sell you something than just about giving you good info.
Most bike channels are 'aftermarket,' shops anyway, which is why they are into always wanting to build your bike, bigger, stronger, more HP and ofcourse… More $$$.
However, the buyer seems always between buying a stock HD, with all the 'crap,' in them, or opting to spend the money to have their bike overhauled using aftermarket products, so at least you know your bike is sound, safe and dependable.
It's like buying a bike twice, when it comes to HD anyway.
I own the '04,' TC 88ci, on the Heritage soft tail. So I break into a sweat, every time I start her up!
Sorry to be so offtopic but does any of you know of a trick to get back into an instagram account..?
I was stupid forgot the account password. I would love any assistance you can give me.
@Harley Bronson Instablaster :)
@Landry Gael thanks for your reply. I got to the site thru google and im waiting for the hacking stuff now.
I see it takes quite some time so I will get back to you later with my results.
Big Twins 1970 to 1999. 20th Century Harley Davidson will live forever.
just got my 1st harley a month ago, its a twin cam 96 fat bob and I love it
Twin Cam Fat Bob is one of my favorite Dynas!
Thank you very much! I have to buy my first Harley Davidson, and you have provided me with a lot of useful information on the various engines and editions. One of the best Harley channels with very clear explanations.
Glad I could help! That's why I do this, I would see someone buy a 88 for cheap and then end up needing a motor. There's a lot of quirks on used Harleys but it's best to at least know what you're getting into.
Have to? Or you want a HD, just because you want to pose? There are plenty better bikes outside.
Great info for a H-D,D newbie. I had a 2000 TC88 that was completely dependable for 123K miles and now have a 2018 M8 also a very good machine. I did a can, oil pump and cam plate. What a fun strong and reliable motorcycle as well. I think the secret is regular maintenance as you have preached in the past. Thanks for your information always enjoyable.
Appreciate all you do and the fact the info is free.after almost 40 years of shovelhead riding I've been looking at upgrading (if you wanna. Call it that ) to an evo or a Twinkie.
And the info you put out has really helped on what to look out for or what I might expect to come across in the future.
Thanks.again, Big Dog ✌
Thank you, I appreciate it! Going up from a Shovel it's really just what kind of potential issues do you want to deal with, Evo is pretty safe bet though.
I recently Bought a 2000 Road King classic with 946 miles on it. I replace the front motor mount, went with the hydraulic cam plate, and spring primary chain tensioner. Luckily I found a Harley shop that will work on my bike, but there is a local shop that can do the work as well. I’m in my late 60s and just don’t have patience to work on my bikes anymore. I do love the 88 in.³ and the bike is stock other than the repairs I did have done.
Very nice! The 88's have a nice torque curve, what they lack in horsepower compared to the bigger twin cams they make up for it in torque!
Bought 2012 FLHRC 103 with only 1600 miles. Got bugs worked out and all upgrades I wanted like suspension, seat, bars, etc and still 1/2 price of new bike.
I'm very happy so far.
Road King's are awesome.
I am happy with my Evo 1988 FLHTC Electra Glide Classic. It has enough power for me, even riding with a passenger and towing a trailer. It did fine at Interstate speeds, even creeping up to 85 mph sometimes. Only problem is the cassette tape is stuck in the stereo so if I am out of range of any radio stations then I have to listen to the previous owner's Merle Haggard tape.
The tape may be stuck but I am really impressed that the cassette deck still works, maybe even more that the tape works!
Still waiting for the bad part.......lol😂
..
Man if you got the hag you got it all! lol!
Oh man... definitely gonna affect the resale with that merle haggard tape... :)
Sounds like I didn’t do too bad when I bought three bikes last fall. My 103 SG was referred to me by a buddy at a dealership. I then stumbled across a 01 Sporty with only 5600 miles on it for $3000 for my son. Then my wife wanted a bike so did some searching and found an 02 Dyna with 6000 miles on it. Guy priced it at $5000 and before we got there to check it out, he dropped the price to $4500. After talking with him, we left with the bike for $4000. Sounds like I didn’t do too hateful for knowing nothing about Harley’s. Love you vids by the way.
Damn you did good! You paid the really good deal price on those bikes, 👍 not bad at all!
@@GixxerFoo Thanks man. Did a few cosmetic mods to each of them over the winter and did a Comp Master clutch on my street glide with different primary chain tensioner. Ready for this snow to go away so we can get back to riding. Stay safe bud, and keep the awesome vids coming.
Picking up my (new to me) '04 Fat Boy in about a week. My Sierra Red beauty would've been in my trailer last weekend if the weather had cooperated. ☹ So I want to thank you for all the great info you've been pouring out since I found and subscribed to your channel a couple of months ago. This one was another well presented rundown on the last several motors that HD has built.
I gotta say, Harley Davidson sure has some iconic motor names that no other manufacturer has. "Evo", "Twin Cam", "Pan Head", "Shovel Head" etc.
Also, there is an independent shop down the road from me who has a good rep, so The Motor Company has done these guys a big favor and now I know why he's swamped with work !
Thank you I appreciate you watching and supporting us! Hopefully this weather will break and we can all get out do some riding. We've been buried in snow and ice here for a while now, just now getting thawed out and then get to deal with sand on the roads.
Great video brother very informative. I've noticed within the group I ride there's 7 guys with the 2005- 2006 non-dyna TC88 engine. They seem to hold up really well and have very few issues with the factory cam tensioners and shoes. I've personally witnessed these multiple bikes all get over 60,000 miles with original tensioners and shoes still intact. One of those bikes had cams installed and the hydraulic tensioner/ plate& pump upgrade performed at 87,000 miles and still had half the shoe left . This guy was mildly aggressive with his riding style and kept his maintenance up regularly. On any of them mechanical maintenance is paramount. Make sure you find one that is worth what you're paying.
I just sold my m8 softail and bought an evo softail. Nowhere near the power but so much more fun to ride. I was just tired of the lack of reliability in the newer engines and all the electronic junk. Simplicity is worth more to me and I love that evo sound and mechanical feel. But whatever floats your boat.
If I were to consider anything I'd prefer a 1998. They did most everything right in that year, the cam bearings were INA style bearings and will need changed along with the upgraded dash B lifters. Good to see you elaborated on the inner cam bearings. Also the 1998 was the beginning of the 9 disc clutch set up
Good cause I I just got a 1998 FXD with the evo, anything else I need to look out for besides what’s in the video?
@@samflora7227 you're good after addressing the above issues.
Right there with you partner. Sick of this snow and lack of work
It's been a mess with these rolling black outs and crap, I could get the bike out and ride now but getting down the drive is a whole other story lol.
You can shovel snow
I rode the old 74 Inch Shoveled for many years. Great and fun engine to tinker with and you will tinker with it. I had an 80 inch Evo Heritage I purchased new for 14 years and never had an issue. I bought a new 2010 Heritage 96 inch new and had the orange pro tuner and upgraded the 96 to stage II. I now ride a 2021 114 Tri Glide that just got over the 500 mile break-in. I Loved all of these bikes and all had their own little stories. But I believer the one that carried me the farthest, 65,000 miles was the 94 Evo Heritage, my overall favorite bike My 2010 Heritage is one beautiful stock bike in emaculate shape and with the SE 259e cams, will run like a bat out of hell. I will miss that bike. Now riding the trike, it is a different game. Jerry Hubbard Irmo, South Carolina
That's awesome, I always regret selling bikes after I spent many years and miles on them. Evo is an excellent engine, hopefully your new Tri Gilde will be just as reliable!
You have got to put a center brace in that shelf! it's driving me nut's all I can do is focus on that?? ocd I geuss, but it's saggin.
Lol I am going to dedicate a mid week video to replacing it.
Man I love it when you talk about my 06 Dyna. Smartest moto purchase i ever made. The only weak point on that bike is the stock primary tensioner.
Right on! Primary tensioner isn't too bad to change out, more time consuming than anything getting everything out of the way to get the cover off.
And the crankshaft plus bearing
I love my 96" road king. I also have a 1999 evo 883. They have both been great engines and I would buy them all over again. The carbs on the sporty need bigger jets than stock to perform, as big as you can get really.
They really had those bikes choked down hard from the factory trying to meet emissions with the carb.
Thanks for sharing what you know. I have a 2003 Vrod and 2019 Heritage 114. No issues so far. In fact, the engine is pretty great in both. Maybe, others have had a different experience but I am well pleased.
That 114m8 is where its at! Way better than the 107. Excellent power and easily maintained. Long life and easy to upgrade. They just came out with a 131 jugs and piston set. Still gotta get the manifold. But with a intake exhaust and cam, pssshhh out of this world. RELATIVELY its a cheap upgrade to have the best of the best.
1988 Evo, 2002 FXDL 88 > 95SE, 2019 114 RGS. EVO (bone stock) seems to sound meaner and neglected (until very recently) and it runs fine. TC-95SE has been rock solid and sounds mean. 114 Road Glide is really nice but it’s pricey. Thing cost as much as my Tacoma TRD Off Road. It is a road chariot though. TC-95 probably my favorite though. It’s really the first bike I built. It just refuses to die 😂
After lots of reviewing on my first bike yes my first bike i was drawn to a 80 cu in evo stock. From original owner who had engine rebuilt cause of retainer pin was missing from front cylinder piston an the guy who rebuilt it is well known for working on harleys. So i got a 4,200 mile on a 1995 electra glide classic. Love it.
That's awesome, you can't beat a deal like that! Damn lost a piston circlip? That make for a really bad day!
I have just bought a 1996 Ultra Classic and am learning the Magneti Marelli injection. From what I’ve seen and heard it works well as long as you leave it alone and not modify anything.
That's the key is leaving it alone, but that goes against owning a Harley. There are aftermarket upgrades and replacements for the system that are interesting!
It's fairly easy to covert to a carb 96 to 01 injection some parts are not available anymore
@@leonardstanford1877 yes I know but I’m up to the challenge. I will change to an S&S carb and hi4 ignition if mangneti marelli pisses me off.
1996 Harley Fatboy...love that EVO engine. Easy to work on and rides great!
The Evo just puts that power to the pavement unlike anything else out there.
I picked up a 05-night train this past fall.. I love the bike, Twin Cam 88, Carbureted.. Great video
Thank you! Those Night Trains are getting hard to find these days!
Don't forget about the 2000s Touring 96s that have the issue of the high up crossover exhaust that cracked, then costs $200+ to replace... unless you switch over to true duals... did that on my 2007 Roadking.
That's a very good point!
Soon as I heard you dropped a new video I had to come in and give a like. I'm subscribed with that Bell icon. I absolutely love your videos as a HD Tech. Keep rocking it man you're amazing.
Thank you, l really appreciate the support!
Nicely done, very informative. However, That shelf is one quick wax bottle away from disaster , put my anxiety at ease and reinforce that bad boy!
Thank you, lol that shelf has been retired.
I bought my 1986 Evolution FXR in 1991 and have upgraded everything except the frame, primary and oil tank. My club brothers all ride Road/Street- glides and buy a brand-new one every three years. I could pay cash for a 2022 CVO today (though not responsibly), but I prefer my FXR.
There's just so much to be said about those FXR's, they have a lot of character. You get a new Road/Street Glide, sure they are very nice but you see them everywhere. I've have friends that have "lost" their bikes before since so many of them look exactly alike.
The wife and I just started getting into harleys and bought our first one for her, It's a 95 king evo. I'm still undecided if I'll go for an Evo myself or twin cam 103 as talked about here. Honestly though most decisions come based on budget lol.
Man, you know literally everything about Harley Davidson.
Lol thank you, but maybe not everything. I know guys that I would just like to know what they've forgot lol.
Hey dude, I really appreciate your videos! I'm in sales, and I really wanna build the biggest and baddest dyna around. All of your videos are super informative and help me with both selling used bikes, and the upgrades I wanna do on my own bike! Thank you!
I sure appreciate that! I used to do sales myself and that can be a tough gig. But when it's hot you can have months were you're rolling in it!
The most bulletproof Harley Davidson to bay used is an evo big twin between 1986-1990 they easy runs for 150k miles without much problems,my 1992 dyna glide had weak cam bearing who ruin the cam gears and bendfront inlet valve who goes furter down and wear out front rod bearing,i think t was after i changed the cam bearing cam and pinion gear,that some how i bent inlet valve and ruin rod bearing. 1990-1992 are hard to come by new pinion gears since they only was made for two years and the green one is hopeless to find,and my friend have an 1985 FXR and he serves it when he remember it,he drive it really hard and the bike have some 95k miles on the clock it has begin to use an little bit oil but not so much that worries him,and my old 1989 FXLR was an totally diffrent bike that the dyna i owns now,the engine on my old one was running more smootley than the engine on the dyna glide
Another good video with great advice.
Make sure to test ride and take note of any non-stock exhausts. Straight pipes or glass packs are common and may make the engine run lean if not correctly jetted.
When looking at engines take note of the bike’s weight. My ride is an ‘04 Dyna and the twin cam 88 has more than enough power for cruising, even in the mountains. The guys who were upsizing this engine were mainly riding touring models that weigh considerably more. None of my friends were into the performance mods so no experience with that.
Carbs on Harley’s do require attention from time to time due to the vibration they live with, but that is very manageable.
My Dyna has the 5 speed transmission. On back roads averaging 50 mph I was shifting relatively often. The six speed is something I would like to have.
That's some solid things to look for, not bad things to consider at all!
Reflecting a little more: the low RPM torque of a Harley big twin is my source of riding joy. The effortless acceleration is relaxing. I now know why old Cadillacs and other large luxury cars had big block V8s, it was not the power but the torque. Smoothly accelerating without fuss or excessive noise was luxury itself. Thats the vibe the twin cam gives me.
My cage is a Dodge Cummins 2500, perhaps I’m displaying a trend ?
😄😂 that torque is addicting
Amen Brother !
:-)
I chose an 03 883 and put the hammer 1275 kit in it. I’m happy with it for the time being.
Get those heads worked over and add some cams when you get ready for some more!
I have 25k on a TC 88 made 11/98. Cam chain shoes have very little wear. Chrome on the covers isn't good. Stator oil seal has a slight leak. Everything else is holding up great I'd say. It's my 3rd Harley and doesn't get wet. Still got the paper label inside the front fender.
That's awesome! Some of those bikes roached tensioners within 10K miles! That's why I always say every bike is different and not all the tensioners failed.
Luckily my Dealership, New River HD in Jacksonville NC still works on any bike. I have a 2005 Electra Glide I just got that needed the cam tensioners replaced, thought I was getting a great deal!! To be fair, the lady I got the bike from, her husband died on Fathers Day, and she doesn't know anything about the bike. The bike still looks almost brand new, only 31K on it. Getting a new cam plate, cams, and tensioner upgrade. Thanks for the videos and information!
I'm partial to the shovelheads. Love those things. A good running Panhead is cool too.
Yes they are! I wouldn't recommend one though to someone brand new to Harley, especially if they don't do their own maintenance either.
You just got to cus, beat and kick them a couple times to get them started occasionally
50 years with Shovelheads, i do believe I'll stay with that type.
Yes I do my own maintenance.
I have to say I love my 2006 twin cam... ok the sound isn't as pure as my previous panhead was. I do miss the sound of loose bolts and ball bearings bouncing around in the crank case and gear box. In the meantime until I finish my panhead project I can live with the twin cam's smoothness. Either that or take my 1996 evo out for a spin. Now if I had a real life outside of my bikes this would be bragging. : )
My local HD dealership worked on models up to 20 years old. I bought my ‘96 Fat Boy in 2014 and then in 2017 I started doing my own work.
That's awesome, honestly a lot of dealers won't do that! Doing your own work is honestly the best to go about it.
Great video. The best bang for the buck is an 88" 2001 /2002 carb. Great engines and with a little work a very strong engine but it's getting hard to find a nice one for a fair price.
I just got an 01 deuce with 12,000 miles on it carburated and a big bore kit for $5,000 i believe i got a good deal
Very informative, right to the point. I enjoy your videos. Keep going !
I have just a nice old panhead, that I love, but I dont know much about the newer bikes
Thanks, will do! Pan Heads are high dollar these days, honestly they are basically the same bottom end up to the Twin Cam. The shovel got the update from the distributor and generator, but not a whole lot different.
Great job...went with the 2008 105th anniversary flhtcu ultra touring TC96. Will check chain tensioner shoes, read that they last 80 to 100k miles. How often to check? Bike has 72k miles. Thanks...Jose
With the hydraulic tensioners you're looking at 40 to 50k, l would give them a good once inspection. Don't forget the inner tensioner as well.
Yep I got twin cams carbie and injected and carbie sounds top. But injected sure does goes better
Fuel injection has it's benefits for sure, it just doesn't have that lope without like a carbed bike. They sound good when you get a nice cam in there though!
Good review something positive for a change instead of all the negativity been hearing about 2007 Softail Night Trains ; ) Picking up a Dyna Fatbob 103 2015 this week, missed the (mild) high output cam by a year and didnt fancy the 2017 as has egr fitted. I know you can cut them out. Had originally intended to buy a 2007 Night Train but seems them things are a bottomless pit of needs upgrades and mods, moreso for my 6ft2 stature, plus the bikes appeal as I've grown older has wained and comfort seems a lot more appealing. Owned a 2008 Fatbob and really enjoyed it, bike fitted me out of the box but alas couldnt afford to keep it back then. Its an age old story that Harley knew the twin cam ran hot, they couldnt decide whether to run it with a cooler or larger fins, we know how that turned out.
The 96's had the compensator problem, but that's not an easy fix with a Dark Horse Eliminator. Harley riders just weren't used to fuel injection and the lean afr at the time so that reputation stuck. But a flash tune and that will be taken care of pretty easily.
I guess I'm lucky proud owner of a 1998 fatboy with 13000 miles and a 103 HO stage 4 111hp, 115 torque. Screaming eagle 103 to 103 kit 2014 street glide. Runs great. I would like to go back to manual clutch so I could catch the clutch sooner. 🎉
Compensator issue was up through 2011. Like these videos. Fun times.
I don't doubt some of them were still having issues through 2011.
@@GixxerFoo mine did lol. 2011 fxdf had stator rotor incorporated with comp spring pack( terrible design) failed at just over 15k. replaced with comp eliminator.....a little jerky in town so replaced with dark horse and baker attitude adjuster . Perfect compromise.
2013 RKC 55000 miles Been grt !
Stage1--- New Header Pipes Done Myself With 3 Miles On SpeedO
Softail - twin cam ( unless you are ok with going no more than 45mph .... then EVO ! 👌👍💪)
Dyna - TC or EVO ( TC - more power, EVO - more respect 💪 )
FXR - good luck finding 2000 fxr4 for less than $10,000 ( Eric Buell designed the frame by the way)
Touring - M8 is pretty awesome!
Best sounding Harley/old school HD - Shovel, Pan, Knuckle .
They are all great 👍
P.S. would like to know your opinion on why the inferior chassis - dyna , lived till 2017 and an FXR died in 2000 !
🤔
Always Great content on this channel 👌
Dmitry,
This article explains the history: deadbeatcustoms.com/blog/history-of-the-harley-davidson-fxr/
Basically, The Motor Company must make the models that customers want to purchase. Old hardcore Harley fans considered the frame too “Japanese”. That’s not an opinion I have. I find the Dyna Glide comfortable and handles well. I must admit, though, I was drawn to the XR1200 a decade ago. Never pulled the trigger or rode one but to me it seemed like the ultimate runabout,
wish I would found this website before buying an 2007 but the dark horse compensator is the shit. Thanks for putting time into this man.
Nothing wrong with the 07, just get that compensator changed like you have and a good tune to get the heat down. You should be good to go now!
Good information Just replaced the Cam tensioners on my 88
Love your channel. I bought a 2009 Road King. Twin 96 with only a stage one. I'm more of a cruiser, low rpm, torque guy. Engine seems fine with 70,000 miles on it. Compensator seems fine, clutch is ok but thinking maybe a replacement in the future. When cold and coming to the first stop it doesn't release completely right away. After that it's fine. Maybe just needs the friction plates replaced. Thanks again for up here on the west coast of Canada
With 70K a new set of plates wouldn't hurt, they may be original. I would check the tensioner shoes too with that kinda mileage. They will run a long time and they aren't too bad to work on at all!
@@GixxerFoo 🙏👊 Cam or primary or both
Great, informative video. Here in England my Harley dealership still services my 21 year old 2000 88 Twin Cam, why wouldn't they since most bikes that they work on will still be the Twin Cam.
Thank you! That's awesome you have an 88 over in England, I've always wanted to ride over there!
Fortunately from me my wife's sister lives in Flagstaff Arizona so we regularly tour the States. The one thing that is very expensive for us is renting a Harley, so after a couple of years we decided to buy one, we now have a 2011 Heritage 96 which made me even more interested in what you had to say about those as well as the 88. One of the first things I ever did to the 88 was to convert it to gear driven cams. You would love touring the UK, though make sure you have some wet weather gear as you cant rely on having good weather.
I am learning a lot from your videos. Congratulations 🎉 great content.
I own my first Harley-Davidson
Ultra Limited 2010 with a 103CI
I don’t know what kind of engine is. So far I don’t have any complaints. I hope I did a good decision. I do really love my bike.
Thank You 😊
97-99 Evo best! Today I ride a 78 FLH and 99 FLSTC, love them both!
I have a few issues with some of your opinions about some of the motors you talk about in the video but I want to talk about one ! You have mention a couple times about EVO lifters every 40 k miles I've been working on harleys for 30 + years and the only lifters I've absolutely had to replace were early Evo bikes ! I raced an Evo bike for years & other than throwing a intake pushrod out at the starting line ( lifter was fine ) it was a 715 lift cam that caused that ( finally cured with fixed length pushrods ) you see the exhaust pushrod is in the same spot as a twin cam . I know this for fact because I have built a few Sputhe engineering Fatvo motors Evo bottom end with TC cyclinders & heads the intake pushrod is off by about a quarter inch + or - ! So where did you get that info at ?
A lot of bikes l worked on had lifter issues, guys from other shops were replacing lifters in the same ball park of mileage.
@@GixxerFoo I can't help think that's a bit weak . Was the bearings in the roller gone or the hydraulics in the lifter body collapsed ? Both can be from low oil pressure not because of pushrod angle ! Anyway it's my opinion everybody has one ! I have restored motors & I have built all out hotrod motors & I have never seen anything caused by pushrod angle . I spit out a couple pushrods in the burnout box but I was running small block Chevy valve springs 250 lbs on the seat ! Adjustable pushrods don't like that !
I have a 2003 88cu lowrider 84,500 miles, upgraded to hydraulic shoes at 45k. wanted to add a streetglide to my stable was pretty specific it needed to be a Rushmore model with a 103....I found a 2014 with 7900 miles this past October and snagged it up
That's the way to go is the Rushmore bikes, they are way better refined!
When I bought my 01 road glide with the magneti morelli in it it lasted 3 years and then the cam chain tensioner blew and rather than rebuild the engine I built a new engine from screaming eagle and put a super e s&s carb on it runs great I use the thunderheart ignition system and haven't had any problems in years
How many miles did you have on your bike when the tensioners let go?
@@GixxerFoo when I bought it it had 7,000 miles on it I flew up to Springfield Massachusetts and rode it home it had 10,500 miles on it when the cam chain snapped it put a little bit of a mark on the inside of the chain housing. This was all the excuse I needed so I did research on the internet and rather than have screaming eagle build an engine filled with crap I ordered the CNC heads the 4.070 Pistons the 4.060 jugs the crankshaft and the cases separately.
Awesome video thanks… new to the Harley family this spring.. 2016 softail heritage classic 103HO love the bike and everything about it… it likes to ping if I’m too quick on the throttle but not always.. I blame it on using gas pumps with one hose and the first litre or two in the hose is probably low octane… and being still stock it’s on the lean side… thanks for the great videos I learn from each one.
Welcome aboard! Pinging is a lot to do with the stock tune, you get a Power Vision or a FP3 tune it will make a world of difference. Even a stock improved tune with the stock pipes and air cleaner.
@@GixxerFoo thanks for your advice.. much appreciated.
I appreciate your Knowledge on the harley motors.
Glad to help!
Love the old evos.
You just simply cannot beat that lope of the Evo at idle!
I have an 87 evo and I will never get rid of it
@@jdamedeo love my 96 evo
85 FLHTC here
I have an 84 electra glide evo and a 93 tour glide ultra.
Shovel head is the best sounding & best looking Harley ever made no doubt about it. Mine is in process of a rebuild after 40,000 hard miles on this build
What did you do to your bike to need a rebuild at 40k?
@@GixxerFoo
40,000. Miles is on this build not the bike. It’s a 96” 3 5/8 x 4 5/8 stroke S&as cases, flywheels, pump & pistons with STD heads. 4050 v- thunder cam , Jim’s lifters & rods.
I really beat it pretty bad as it is a street & strip build. Ran it a few times on the strip but mostly just having fun.
Now it’s getting more compression & bigger cam. Fly wheels being rebuilt
Better head job. Lol it’s going to Rock
@@GixxerFoo
I wasn’t going to rebuild but the frame was cracked and once the motor was out found another crack under the seat post. It was running pretty good I thought but the valve guides & springs were shot & found out the fly wheels were not balanced properly, in fact they were way out of balance. That’s the way it is with high pro shovelheads when you go to fix one thing you always find a lot more than you planned on. 😳😜
With a 2006 dyna 88, should a priority be to change the already hydraulic cam plate, or to change the tensioner shoes? I would do the cam bearings and the lifters but the cam plate and oil pump and the job ads up when I’m doing my own work.
2006 is isn't bad at all, you don't have to worry about tensioners unless it's got 30k or more. Just take a peak and make sure they are good to go or need service. Other than there really isn't much to worry about that year unless something doesn't sound or feel right.
No matter what you are buying unless you take it apart down to the engine case you won't know what you've got. Things can go through wrecks and be totaled but somehow end up in another frame and because it still runs someone is able to sell it. That's what happened to me. Fortunately I got 7+ years of use out of it before I found out it was not rebuildable due to damage that occurred at some point in it's life.
I have a 2006 fatboy I bought used in july. Ive put on about 1500mi on it with no problems. It's got 19000 on it and seems to have been taken good care of .previous owner replaced the cam chain tensioner, other than that it has the vance and Hines pipes and is fuel injected. I sure don't need any more power cause I'm 68 years old it goes plenty fast. Just wondering if you know of anything else I need to look at.
Once that cam chest is upgraded those bikes are good to go!
I am running a 2016 twinky 103 HO I bought new. I done the usual air intake, exhaust and tuner changes. I installed an oil cooler and run the bigger depth oil filter to increase oil capacity. This engine has been absolutely trouble free and makes excellent power everywhere. Having ran pans, knocks and evo’s over many years, I truly feel the 103 HO is as good as it gets.
i have a 1990 flhs almost new when i got it and still have it. 50,000 miles. original belt, cams , pistons , heads ,exhaust. had to do base gaskets twice. had to pull trans cluster out to replace a broken shifter return spring. volt regulator once. jet kit, k&n filter. check dressser models before 2010 for frame rust out at where back of trans mounts to frame. water trapped inside hollow frame gusset area. caused rust through at that spot. had to clean out the rust and treat all work done at home. 31 years. will try for 31 more.
Dsmn that's awesome, no major issues really in all that time. Just normal here's and there's for the year.
thanks for the reply
I had nothing but issues with my 103 went bk to.tje 96 love my dynas
What engine would you want when purchasing a used Harley-Davidson?
One with a S&S evo big block in it😂😎
S&s shovel
02 TC 88 carburetor
Blockhead all the way
1000cc ironhead. I like using my toolbox :P
Thanks for this edition GixxerFoo, you saved me some money and worry about the 2006 Dyna Wide Glide that I bought last December. With all the talk about the spring cam chain tensioners I was going to replace the cam plate and add hydraulic tensioners, but from what you said here my 88 twin cam already has them. Thanks for putting out these informative videos for this newbie to Harley ownership.
2006 was a very strange year for the Dyna, it was really kind of a hybrid engine between the outgoing 88 and incoming 96. It had the hydraulic tensioners and believe it also had the newer style 96 heads on it, it's a heck of time trying to find cams for those engines. But honestly best year of the 88 they ever made and only the Dyna had that motor.
Great channel a lot of good info. Just wondering why the HD Switchback gets little info or tips. I have a 2012 and just love it’s size & power with the 103. I needed a mid range touring and this fits perfectly. I am gravity challenged @5’6 easily reaching ground with heeled footwear. Super ride with a Lucky Dave’s Stepup seat. Perhaps you could show something on them, I Really like it !!
I love the Swithcback! It's like a Road King but I don't have to turn the wheel to the right to get it off the stand. They feel super light too, put a batwing fairing on one and the dual exhaust and it looks just like a Street Glide! Not a bad idea on a video, it's really a hidden gem in used bikes if you can find one.
@@GixxerFoo after market stuff is really tough
I love my 2006 Road King 88 twin cam. But I think I will go with a 103 twin cam I loved my 16 FatBob with the 103 I had cams,high flow air,pipes,tuner and the jugs cooling fans with the larger oil cooler. It was a shame it was ran over in the parking lot at the gas station...
Awwww damn it... how did that happen?
@@GixxerFoo the guys in his Dad's jacked up Chevy 2500 said he didn't see my bike with the pump handle in the tank. He crushed my forks,wheel,handle bars, tank and cracked the frame. He parked on top and got out and said" what Fuck was I thinking!!!" I just called the cops they so the video from the station.
I put a S&S Dragon T143 in my bagger, still working the bugs out n also put a Evolution clutch in n she blew apart. EVOLUTION give me another 1 under warranty. So b back out again this wk. she's also got nitrous on board but still doing 1 more tune on motor first. SHES LIKE RIDING A CROTCH 🚀 ROCKET ON THE STREET!...🥳🤠😎✌
Not sure why I was recommended this, but it was worth watching.
Great videos 👍. I have a 2007 softail deluxe 96". Love the bike. Came to me with stage 1 tuned. Living in Newfoundland Canada we ride in cooler weather spring and fall. Wondering if you have any suggestions on a good set, I mean really hot, heated grips? Thanks for the great videos and keep up the good work. Kent. Ps, out riding in 3 degree weather. Had to scratch that itch.
Very cool! Do have heated gear as well? Kuryakyn are make some pretty good heated grips. It's really hard to find a set of heated grips that match your bike since the options get pretty limited. Harley has pretty wide selection of heated grips but they aren't super hot, they work well though.
@@GixxerFoo no heated gear yet. Didn't need it for my 06 goldwing I just sold last year. Always wanted a harley. Wife can't ride anymore so I seen my chance to get that Harley for myself 🤣. Thanks for the reply. Ride safe.
So my 2003 RK has a roller bearing lower end. It also has 99,600 miles on it. What is wrong with the roller bearing design? The motor is stock with stage 1
They went to a pressed crank in 2003, if you go to putting in a lot of horsepower (100+) they tend to spin the crank.
I have a 2006 Dyna Street Bob with an 88 tc. I thought all twin cams have spring cam chain tensioner. Are you saying my bike has a hydraulic cam chain tensioner?
Yes for 2006 the Dyna line only had the hydraulic tensioners and a different set of heads. The cam bearings are different as well too. It's more closely related to the 96.
@@GixxerFoo wow that is nice to know. Appreciate it
Didn’t the 2006 Dyna have problems with the new 6 speed as well?
I believe there were with some soft parts, return springs and some other minor annoyances. Nothing super major though.
I have a 2000 twin cam 88 with that throttle body they only made for a couple years. When the time comes what would be a good dependable upgrade/replacement for that throttle body ?
Love the video thanks man.
You have Mag system, I would check out Zippers fuel systems. They have some nice upgrades for those systems, they are an excellent choice if you ever need a replacement.
@@GixxerFoo thanks for the feedback. I'm going to have to double up on my piggy bank for that one..✌️😊
Love my 95 Ultra it has a M&M injection. It is a slow go Evo but it is super reliable
I prefer the Evo with a couple exceptions, which I learned from personal experience. 86-90 Sportster and the redheaded bastard stepchild 84 1/2 FXR. Neither are problems with the engine, but the primaries on both are a headache.
That's the truth! Primaries were quite an issue on those!
My local bike shop loves working on Harleys but all the owners take them to the offical dealer and get charged through the nose. I'm in NI so the (only) dealer passes on older bikes to another shop while they push newer bikes
That's usually what dealers here do to, they will recommend you to an indy when you bring in an older bike.
Great video! Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
Thank you for watching!! We appreciate the support!
Im sure Im off topic, but wanted share cuz your info is great.. I just traded wifes 2020 Iron 883 in for a 2021 Softail StreetBob. Its an impressive ride and she loves it ! I immediately put a Saddleman Stepup seat on it, because its got enough torque to slide her right off the back of stock seat.. lol
I don't no if I want to buy another Harley after listening to this guy
My 04 hd road king has 93,000 miles with the gear drive cams ,do I need to check the end play? I put new screaming eagle lifters in it at around 80,000 miles. It doesn’t use oil , no oil leaks and runs strong and it is a 95 inch.
Recon so ; 96 is it with 6 speed also . I rode today . Great to get out -
✊👍🏻👌
If I could get down my driveway right now I would get out and ride too!
@@GixxerFoo I hope you get your good weather back ☀️.
Wind - wind- wind - here today . Damn -
I’ve got a 2018 street glide special and my step father has a 2017 road glide and haven’t had any sumping issues at all or primary to trans fluid transfer both are just stage 1’s. Does it occur more in m8’s that have cam upgrades? TIA
It mainly shows up on M8's that rode for long stretches at a steady speed, it's varied so much but that seems to be the general consensus of how it starts. If you do add a performance cam it's a great time to update the cam plate with a high volume oil pump, that's been the fix is the high volume oil pump.
Would you go with love Jugs or an oil cooler?
Personally I would go with a fan assisted oil cooler, it depends on you're needs. If you are in traffic a lot, the Love Juggs would be a good way to go.
oh i just got a 2018 road glide thanks for the heads up
Evo Rigid sportster 1200 and going to buy an shovelhead softail when i find one in Europe:P Fuel injected Harleys never sound as good as old carb motors, definitely agree on that.
Carbed Sportsters have a very distinctive sound, what's the market like on Shovels over there?
My 2017 M8 never had an oil pump recall. It did have a recall on an oil line problem with a connection issue.
It's one of those weird things it wasn't all bikes, if you had a sumping issue they would install the updated oil pump. Some had issues with blow by through the rings, they would get you a new set of pistons and rings if needed.
@@GixxerFoo I must have been a lucky one.
Bought a used ‘16 Road Glide Ultra w/103. Wanted the 103, wanted the Rushmore improvements. Simple choice.
Yeah you can't beat the bikes that benefited from the Rushmore project, they are hands down night and day difference.
@@GixxerFoo Dealer tried to get me up to a used M8 but I never buy bleeding edge stuff. Now to add cooling systems to the bike b4 it gets too hot out there.
To add also I had a 2009 and even though they had hydraulic shoes tensioners they were gone at 48,000 mile the inside one was. The one you can’t see also my cam the hardness had worn off and the pump had scoring. All from normal use using good synthetic 2050 oil so in my case there’s some short Cummings with this motor also it doesn’t hurt to pull the cover off and take a look in there once you start getting to 40,000 miles
My front wheel bearing was gone at 18,000 miles and made noise and my compensator was gone at 20,000 miles. But I did like that bike but I went back to an Evo 1998. Which I still have
40 to 50K is about normal wear on the hydraulic tensioners, it's far better than the projected 30k on spring tensioners. Well if you made 30K on a spring tensioners your were lucky!
@@GixxerFoo Mine were hydraulic they were in my 2009 FLH
If you can live with range a sportster is a good place to start. I had an 883 with chain drive solid engine. Not stupid expensive and bullit proof.
That was always the big thing about the Sportster was 2.1 gallon peanut tank, get you about 80 miles lol. I was happy when they started putting the 3.3 gallon on and then the 4.5 gallon on the custom.
I recently brought a 2002 heritage. It has a branch 95 kit on it with branch heads and cams. 110 hp out of a twin cam. She a sleeper but I do have to upgrade the cam plate. Such a bummer. Lol