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Cam Tensioners at 30k on an 05 FXDL?

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Old Oct 9, 2018 | 02:54 PM
  #21  
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Originally Posted by Vectese
Mostly stock, has a good amount of accessories though...windscreen, leather saddles, engine guard, highway pegs, some random custom grips, sissy bar, and a luggage rack.

Here's an album: https://imgur.com/a/69cvLoP

thats a nice bike that is set up nice, I would say 4,500-5,000 is a good deal. Being a low rider it’s worth more than my Superglide was and has a lot more equipment on it.
 
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Old Oct 9, 2018 | 02:58 PM
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Originally Posted by Blue Bob
I don't think people understand it's not just wear, the shoe material becomes brittle with age and heat cycles and can crumble potentially plugging up the oil pump and oil passages.
Yeah, I'm planning on replacing it ASAP, but I'm mostly concerned if it can make it back home/to the shop.
 
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Old Oct 10, 2018 | 09:24 PM
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Most likely if you don't hear any strange noise, you're okay. Otherwise, just rent a u-haul trailer and sleep well.
 
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Old Oct 21, 2018 | 04:11 PM
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Originally Posted by Vectese
Hi,

I was looking to buy what I think is a good deal on a 05 FXDLI--5000--but the owner put on 10k miles since he bought it at the dealership at 20k, but has never recalled having the cam tensioner shoes replaced. I wanted to go ahead and ****** it but I'm pretty concerned knowing these were the kryptonite of the early TC engines. Is there any way to determine the life on/inspect them without opening up the bike? I'm concerned about how long they'd last before I can get them fixed ASAP.

Also, I read a bit online, but wanted more insight on what steps you'd guys take to fix them. Should I just replace the shoes or maybe switch to gear driven or the new hydraulic tensioners?

Thoughts?
WAY WAY overdue for cam shoe tensioners replacement,adjustment and or an inspection and Direct Replacement . DONT THE HARLEY HYDRAUKLIC GARBAGE . Do yourself as favor: Go Over to an S&S gear driven Cam Setup,cam cheyt and S&S OIL PUMP. MILES OF TROUBLE FREE SMILES ahead with NO Worries @ All
 
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Old Oct 21, 2018 | 04:53 PM
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Originally Posted by S&S145
WAY WAY overdue for cam shoe tensioners replacement,adjustment and or an inspection and Direct Replacement . DONT THE HARLEY HYDRAUKLIC GARBAGE . Do yourself as favor: Go Over to an S&S gear driven Cam Setup,cam cheyt and S&S OIL PUMP. MILES OF TROUBLE FREE SMILES ahead with NO Worries @ All
Hey VT 81, what's a cheyt?
 

Last edited by joe40x; Oct 21, 2018 at 04:55 PM.
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Old Oct 21, 2018 | 06:35 PM
  #26  
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That’s what happens after a good breakfast at Waffle House
 
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Old Oct 22, 2018 | 11:00 AM
  #27  
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Originally Posted by Vectese
Hi,

I was looking to buy what I think is a good deal on a 05 FXDLI--5000--but the owner put on 10k miles since he bought it at the dealership at 20k, but has never recalled having the cam tensioner shoes replaced. I wanted to go ahead and ****** it but I'm pretty concerned knowing these were the kryptonite of the early TC engines. Is there any way to determine the life on/inspect them without opening up the bike? I'm concerned about how long they'd last before I can get them fixed ASAP.

Also, I read a bit online, but wanted more insight on what steps you'd guys take to fix them. Should I just replace the shoes or maybe switch to gear driven or the new hydraulic tensioners?

Thoughts?
From reading your replies it sounds like you and I are about the same when it comes to being mechanically inclined. I bought an 05 FLHRSI with 24K and had no history on the tensioners. My buddy suggested that I look at them right away. I go in starting to try that and realized that I would have to drop the exhaust to be able to get to the last cam chest screw. I almost started to do that and realized I just didn't have the right tools and my gut said ... let someone else do it.

Took it to the indy in the area and let him open it up. At 24K front shoe was 30 percent worn, back shoe was over 50. Runout was good and he suggested gears. I haven't looked backed. Upgraded the cams whil in there and she runs like a champ. Never have to worry about shoes every again. Peace of mind for me.

Good Luck
 
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Old Oct 22, 2018 | 11:15 AM
  #28  
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At that age, they need changed. Inspect at 20K for OEM go new and from there. However, replace at 10 years. They get brittle. My 04 has 50k and they are original. I drive easy. Never exceed 4k or so.
 

Last edited by Jackie Paper; Oct 22, 2018 at 11:19 AM.
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Old Oct 23, 2018 | 06:55 PM
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Originally Posted by joe40x
Hey VT 81, what's a cheyt?
cam chest......my bad
 
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