I've seen so many people use/say that statement.

It go me wondering...

What is it about an Evo that makes it so much easier to work on, than a TC?

 

No Computer(s). Or integrated anything. If something breaks or fails to work it is that singular part. Replace or repair, one and done.

 

Aside for the computerized stuff (present on some evos to a lesser extent) I find them pretty much the same in difficulty (or lack of).

 

Lack of cam chain tensioners????

As Owtlaw said aside from the computer crap TC's aren't really all that hard either.

 

Just like cars of the 60's and 70's Carburated, Single cam. points or HEi. Spark fuel go...... Don't need a computer to diagnose or fix it. Plugs tell us what's goin on.... Easier and cheaper to modify the engine or any component related to performance.... Simplicity creates longevity....

Oh yea and did I say that they can be real fast too?

 

watch a video on doing a cam swap on a Evo then watch one doing a swap on a TC. other than the efi an dealing with the later cats an other smog stuff, that's the big dif to me.

 

It could be said that all Harleys are easy to work on, simply because they continue to make traditional style engines. An Evo is virtually a shovel and both of them are simply a BSA C15 with an extra cylinder - it don't get much more basic. I cut my teeth on bikes back in the '60s and Harleys have kept the simplicity of that era - and earlier ones!

As for electronics, they simply make it as easy as all previous generations for owners to make a mess of modifying their bikes. A carb doesn't change that!

 

I had a TC88 in a bike with a carb and Thunderheart ignition system. No FI or ECM. I built it from S&S 'A' cases, and a bunch of TC take-off parts. Easy engine to work on, as engines go.

...realized I didn't really answer the question. It's not a complex engine (not too many parts); you can follow the FSM and it walks you through disassembly/assembly pretty well; with someone who's experienced looking over your shoulder to provide a 'sanity check' on procedures, a first-timer (like me) can do a credible job even on major work. I imagine an EVO is no different, nor are earlier Harley engines. Though, I suspect there are assembly 'tricks' to each era that are not in the FSM.

Alan

 

I agree with all the above. Having just torn down and modified my '90, a shop manual, parts book and this forum can get you a long way with doing a lot of stuff.

 

Thanks for the replies.

I know my way around a toolbox, but I'm not an expert.

I have a 2009 EGS now, but I'll be looking for an Evo FatBoy this winter for a second bike. I figure I'll be doing some sort of work/upgrades on it.

Just wanted some opinions from those who have had experience.