Might change cams
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Tourer
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 330
Likes: 1
From: Grayson Ky
Might change cams
So I was at the local HD dealer today getting some stuff done to the wifes bike today and was talking to the service guys and even a master mechanic about trying to get more low to mid range torque out of my bike. Both the service guy and the mechanic recommended I do a cam only swap to the SE 254E cam and do the adjustable push rods so they dont have to pull the top end apart. I am not looking for more top end or even more horse power, I just want some more get up and go on the bottom to mid range side. They originally quoted me right at $1300.00 out the door, that included labor, the adjustable push rods, cams, and the gasket kit that is required and 4 hours dyno time. I talked them down to $1125.00 after telling them I could get my own parts from Zanottis. Is it worth the money to do this?
Tourer
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 408
Likes: 0
From: western mass.
It was worth it to me.I wanted the cam chain tensioner upgrade done so it was the right time to do the cams and oil pump. I only got to ride it about 300mi before winter set in. But all in all I'M HAPPY WITH IT.
Road Warrior
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 1,641
Likes: 156
From: florida
Does that price include a tune? If not it seems high. Cam swap without going into the top end should only be 3-4 hr job. Parts-450-500 thats 150-200 hr for labor. I just did a cam swap and the parts were 450 for cams,lifters and tensioners and gaskets. I pulled the rockers an used my stock pushrods. Took me about 8hrs taking my time. Cam swap is a great upgrade on the cheap. One of the best bang for your buck upgrades. Just be sire to get a good tune.
Elite HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 4,990
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From: Marina del Rey
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Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Dec 2010
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From: Coromandel Peninsula New Zealand
Agreed, if they haven't got it dialled in after an hour then they shouldn't be using a dyno unsupervised......
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Road Warrior
Joined: May 2010
Posts: 1,382
Likes: 4
From: Kennewick, WA
I don't let the Harley dealer do any of my upgrades, but a coworker told me that the new HD dealer in town was offering $1,000 103" upgrades. Supposedly they cut $300 off on labor for this promo.
Personally, I stay away from the weak performance upgrades at the dealer. Their hands are tied as to what they can do, whereas the independents can give you what you really want.
A cam change is great and you might be satisfied with that, but don't expect to feel that much of a difference with a cam change alone. However, it might move the torque curve to better serve your riding style.
Personally, I stay away from the weak performance upgrades at the dealer. Their hands are tied as to what they can do, whereas the independents can give you what you really want.
A cam change is great and you might be satisfied with that, but don't expect to feel that much of a difference with a cam change alone. However, it might move the torque curve to better serve your riding style.