2002 Low Rider
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Joined: Feb 2012
Posts: 75
Likes: 3
From: East Tennessee
2002 Low Rider
Howdy Y’all!
I’ve been riding for a few decades and I’m considering buying my first Harley. I’ve found a 2002 Low Rider with 5000 miles. Engine is stock.
I’m not afraid to turn a wrench. But I don’t like surprises.
My question is what issues can I expect to deal with in a 2002 model?
Seems I’ve heard about Harley having some bearing and/or cam chain adjuster issues. Any truth to this?
Anything else I should be aware of with this beautiful bike?
Thanks Y’all
Mike
I’ve been riding for a few decades and I’m considering buying my first Harley. I’ve found a 2002 Low Rider with 5000 miles. Engine is stock.
I’m not afraid to turn a wrench. But I don’t like surprises.
My question is what issues can I expect to deal with in a 2002 model?
Seems I’ve heard about Harley having some bearing and/or cam chain adjuster issues. Any truth to this?
Anything else I should be aware of with this beautiful bike?
Thanks Y’all
Mike
I've got an '03. Only issue 'may' be the cam-chain tensioners. Easy enough to check. The issue was resolved in the '06 models by using a hydraulic system. A kit is available to retro to the hydraulic system. Of course you can always just change the old ones for new ones.
I recommend getting the H-D Service Manual (99481-02) and H-D Parts Manual (99439-02). There is also a H-D Electrical Diagnostic Manual (99496-02) . If you plan on doing your own work you need these. Check ebay and amazon for them. A H-D dealer can order them too.
Check the date-code on the tires. You don't want to go tooling-around on 10yr old tires, no matter how 'good' they look. Check the battery too.
Be glad to help if you have the need.
Dave
I recommend getting the H-D Service Manual (99481-02) and H-D Parts Manual (99439-02). There is also a H-D Electrical Diagnostic Manual (99496-02) . If you plan on doing your own work you need these. Check ebay and amazon for them. A H-D dealer can order them too.
Check the date-code on the tires. You don't want to go tooling-around on 10yr old tires, no matter how 'good' they look. Check the battery too.
Be glad to help if you have the need.
Dave
Tourer
Joined: Jun 2012
Posts: 323
Likes: 0
From: Mishawaka, IN
I have an 01 & have had zero issues with mine. It's a strong runner. Personally, I'd rather have carbs before fuel injected/computer models.
Yes, the CCT (cam chain tensioners) on those models have had issues. They are (somewhat) easy to check for wear.
It's a great bike. Fun to ride.
Yes, the CCT (cam chain tensioners) on those models have had issues. They are (somewhat) easy to check for wear.
It's a great bike. Fun to ride.
Cruiser
Joined: Jul 2011
Posts: 109
Likes: 1
From: louisiana
I bought a low mileage 02 Wide Glide and like the man said , put a new set of tires on it even though the ten year old ones looked almost new . Paid almost $1000.00 for the cam-chain upgrade mostly for the oil pump . If I were you I'd just replace the tensioner shoes & the upgraded oil pump system . Carb. bikes are the way to go . All the electronics associated with EFI bikes just increase the likely hood of something going wrong at just the wrong time on the road and with all those pesky sensors that could fail , the newer bike's are just so much more complicated not to mention expensive to work on . I've had 2 Low Rider's that were bought new back in the eighties and loved them both . I just found the WG at a good deal that I couldn't pass up but I really wanted another Low Rider with a tach .
Ride Safe & Ride Righteous !
Ride Safe & Ride Righteous !
Cruiser
Joined: Jun 2012
Posts: 136
Likes: 1
From: North Dakota
I bought my 03 Low Rider this spring. I have heard all the same things about the cam tensioners, haven't had any problems with them yet. Only problem I have had is that the bolt holding the rotor on was loose somehow, dealer warrantied all of it. Just had to pay the $50 deductible. I wish you all the best if you buy it, although I doubt you will need it.
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Joined: Jun 2012
Posts: 55
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From: Texas
I bought my 03 Low Rider this spring. I have heard all the same things about the cam tensioners, haven't had any problems with them yet. Only problem I have had is that the bolt holding the rotor on was loose somehow, dealer warrantied all of it. Just had to pay the $50 deductible. I wish you all the best if you buy it, although I doubt you will need it.
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Supporter
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 15,788
Likes: 5,622
From: along the shore of Mishigami
Have an 02 FXD. The 01-03's had the strongest built motors. I wouldn't worry about the the tensioners till about 15K-20K then have them checked. I 'd be more concerned about the condition of the tires and replace them if they are originals.
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