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Old Feb 18, 2016 | 07:49 PM
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Default Lean or Rich

I have a 2011 FXDWG and I'm wondering if the spark plugs are still a good indicator on trying to identify if I'm running too lean (white) or rich (black)?

I bought used from the harley shop a while back and it already had stage 1 and have no idea if it was tuned.

I've come across posts where some folks think the plugs aren't a great indicator any more on newer bikes. I don't know if 2011 counts as "newer" or if that info is even trustworthy. I just don't know enough to have an opinion. So I'm looking for advice from you guys.
 
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Old Feb 18, 2016 | 08:29 PM
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Originally Posted by crcraig
I'm wondering if the spark plugs are still a good indicator on trying to identify if I'm running too lean (white) or rich (black)?
Yup..
 
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Old Feb 19, 2016 | 01:01 AM
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due to all the additives in modern fuel a better indicator would be to inspect the plugs threads. The more rows of discoloration in the plugs threads the more heat the cylinder head is seeing. Of course this reading will record the highest temps the head sees. Id be concerned with anything more than 5 rows of discoloration. My current softail has been autotuned and runs great. It shows 4 rows of discoloration.
 
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Old Feb 19, 2016 | 12:11 PM
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How about a couple of pics? Try to show the center insulator coloring if possible.
 
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