Trailer pulling beast! Wrong gearing though.....
Thread Starter
|
Cruiser
Joined: Aug 2014
Posts: 243
Likes: 2
From: Windsor, CO
Trailer pulling beast! Wrong gearing though.....
SO, I am active duty army and had to head from northern colorado out to Fort Knox Ky for the summer, and flying out not having wheels was NOT an option. So I built a trailer earlier this spring planning on pulling out to Ky with my softail. It is the bike in my signature, stock 96" with intake, V&H big radius and andrews 48's. It pulls that trailer like a champ! Granted it is only 350lbs or so loaded, but when you are getting around 65-70 mph the wind resistance is like pulling a plow. If I had not put in the 48's, it would have been a rough trip. Here is why- stock gearing SUCKS! At around 70mph in 6th gear, it is ok, but when you hit a long incline or a really stiff headwind, you have to grab 5th or you will lug the crap out of it. I am thinking a 30T drive sprocket will do the trick, not only on the top end, but taking off in first with a lot of weight requires LOTS of clutch.
All in all, it was a great trip out and the softy netted around 30mpg. Worst tank was 27, rainstorm + headwind running in 5th for about 100 miles, best was 33, calm, clear and flat. Like I said, without the 48's it would have been a very frustrating trip.
Now to the real question, a 107 with S&S 570's should pull real well down low right? A clutch is definately in order with that, as mine has slipped once or twice with only cams, but after adjusting the clutch it is fine. Maybe just a stronger spring? Dunno. Anyone running lots of weight with a similar build?
All in all, it was a great trip out and the softy netted around 30mpg. Worst tank was 27, rainstorm + headwind running in 5th for about 100 miles, best was 33, calm, clear and flat. Like I said, without the 48's it would have been a very frustrating trip.
Now to the real question, a 107 with S&S 570's should pull real well down low right? A clutch is definately in order with that, as mine has slipped once or twice with only cams, but after adjusting the clutch it is fine. Maybe just a stronger spring? Dunno. Anyone running lots of weight with a similar build?
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 157,417
Likes: 56,984
From: Michigan 15 Minutes East Of Hell
I'm pulling a Bushtec Quantum ( not as heavy as your setup ) with my 2009 FLHTCU. No real changes in the scooter other than Mufflers, A/C and a tune. I'm a big guy ( 6'2" 250 ) and my better half is a bit better than half, and packed down ( scooter and the trailer ) I really don't have any trouble as far as power is concerned ... of course on long uphill grades I do use 5th gear. last year on the way home from Sturgis I ran all day long at better than 80 mph with all the gear and "Red" on the back. While I'll probably do some modifications ( I've got a spare set of heads, pistons and cams ) I'm in no hurry ... Have you considered Fuel Moto's 107 kit? Remember that with more power ( enough to need a HP clutch ) you might want to consider the drive belt ( the weaker link in high torque applications ) Just food for thought. Good Luck with the build.
Thread Starter
|
Cruiser
Joined: Aug 2014
Posts: 243
Likes: 2
From: Windsor, CO
I already ordered a variable clutch and spring, which I can do while I am here for the summer. I am guessing with the Andrews cams I am somewhere in the 80/90 range power wise, and towing right in the power band isn't really easy on the clutch since my trailer isn't exactly aerodynamic.....
I will probably go with Hillside or Vee-Twin for the 107 build. I know they will build a little more heat and lots more torque, just wondering if anyone has towed with a similar set up. And what problems if any have surfaced, or the should have done this vs that etc.....
I will probably go with Hillside or Vee-Twin for the 107 build. I know they will build a little more heat and lots more torque, just wondering if anyone has towed with a similar set up. And what problems if any have surfaced, or the should have done this vs that etc.....
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
Da Gumpmeister
General Harley Davidson Chat
22
Oct 21, 2009 07:38 PM
