Evo Classic Gets a New S&S Heart

All this engine swap took was determination, elbow grease, and a little help from the forums!

Swapping engines is a practice nearly as old as the motorcycle itself. Whether you’re looking for a fresh start or simply more power, there’s no better way to go than with a brand new powerplant. Plus, engine swaps are usually just plain cool. While most folks ride around on a Harley model sporting the factory engine, yours is, well, different. Not to mention more powerful. And that’s what drove HD Forums member texashillcountry to toss an S&S 111 in their Evo Classic. Thankfully, they also posted the process here in the forums for us to enjoy!

“Well I finally got started today. Drained the oil and primary fluid, both of which flow really slow when they are cold!!!! Took a few parts off, inspecting everything to see if anything needed to be replaced as long as I’m there.”

Once temperatures got above 55 degrees (which is freezing in Texas), the OP got back to work.

“Broke free all the lock tabs and then remembered that I have to pull the starter to pull the inner primary….still thinking on which route to go. It was a pain getting that one (it kept catching up on something). Putting the 111 in is gonna be interesting.”

But before you know it, the old mill was out.

Brett Foote

Brett Foote has been covering the automotive industry for over five years and is a longtime contributor to Internet Brands’ Auto Group sites, including Chevrolet Forum, Rennlist, and Ford Truck Enthusiasts, among other popular sites.

He has been an automotive enthusiast since the day he came into this world and rode home from the hospital in a first-gen Mustang, and he's been wrenching on them nearly as long.

In addition to his expertise writing about cars, trucks, motorcycles, and every other type of automobile, Brett had spent several years running parts for local auto dealerships.

You can follow along with his builds and various automotive shenanigans on Instagram: @bfoote.