'85 FXSB Issues
Tourer
Joined: May 2013
Posts: 263
Likes: 25
From: MN
My 85 Low Rider doesn't like the cold either. Electronic ignition was stock. Maybe lift up your push rod covers and make sure that someone didn't install adjustable push rods. If they did, maybe they need adjusting to get rid of the ticking. Just a thought since it has points for the ignition. 
Road Master
Joined: Oct 2011
Posts: 957
Likes: 2
From: Carlsbad Springs Ontario
Check VIN #
It came with points ignition when I bought is so that is what I am working with. lol
This model has kick and electric start so I am not certain whether or not it came with electronic ignition.
I need to clean the carb, yes it is stock and I have a new K&N air filter on the way.
Thanks for the replies so far.
This model has kick and electric start so I am not certain whether or not it came with electronic ignition.
I need to clean the carb, yes it is stock and I have a new K&N air filter on the way.
Thanks for the replies so far.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 21,143
Likes: 12,706
From: South Carolina
That machine originally came from the factory with the old "a" lifters, which were known to have problems with failures in the rollers. The factory came out with an improved lifter in the mid `90s.
I suggest you install a new set of OEM lifters and also think about an electronic ignition system.
Don`t spend any money on that carb or intake, find a used CV carb and manifold, air cleaner backing plate etc. It will be money well spent.
I suggest you install a new set of OEM lifters and also think about an electronic ignition system.
Don`t spend any money on that carb or intake, find a used CV carb and manifold, air cleaner backing plate etc. It will be money well spent.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 8,198
Likes: 3,087
From: NW AR
As mentioned, the noise is likely lifter related. A little valve noise is normal, but those lifters only last 40-50K, typically, and after 30 years, I'm saying it's time for those. And, while you have it all apart for the new lifters, put in the electronic ignition. People like the Dyna 2000.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 21,093
Likes: 7,622
From: Poolville
CV carb
Although I never ran a CV carb (partial to S&S) there is one for sale in the Marketplace section here's the link.
https://www.hdforums.com/forum/evo-e...83-92-a-2.html
Also the noise in the top end could also be from the PO who changed the ignition probably put in a different cam as well. some grinds are just noisy....
https://www.hdforums.com/forum/evo-e...83-92-a-2.html
Also the noise in the top end could also be from the PO who changed the ignition probably put in a different cam as well. some grinds are just noisy....
Club Member
Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 5,803
Likes: 7,829
From: SE Louisiana
I have a cv and manifold, not sure if I have the flanges, may have the choke cable too, would have to do some digging, if interested let me know and I'll see what I have and let you know for sure.
$120 + shipping
$120 + shipping
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Thread Starter
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6th Gear
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 10
Likes: 0
Wow thanks for all the replies.
I just dropped the new K&N filter in and bike seems to be running well. Still a PITA to start in the cold but it runs good once it gets going.
Just dropped a bill on some parts to clean up a couple things and need to order a little more. At this point, I think I am going to leave good enough alone on the lifters and carb and maybe tackle that next winter. The air filter seems to have quieted the top end noise oddly, the filter that was in the bike was little more than an old mesh filter body...kind of scares me to think about all the short cuts the PO might have used on the bike.
We'll see what happens, my buddy has some smaller split tanks and a CV carb he is willing to let me try out so I might take him up on it.
I just dropped the new K&N filter in and bike seems to be running well. Still a PITA to start in the cold but it runs good once it gets going.
Just dropped a bill on some parts to clean up a couple things and need to order a little more. At this point, I think I am going to leave good enough alone on the lifters and carb and maybe tackle that next winter. The air filter seems to have quieted the top end noise oddly, the filter that was in the bike was little more than an old mesh filter body...kind of scares me to think about all the short cuts the PO might have used on the bike.
We'll see what happens, my buddy has some smaller split tanks and a CV carb he is willing to let me try out so I might take him up on it.
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