Found a set of Evo SE heads for $500. I’ve read mixed opinions on how much improvement they give.

I happen to have my rocker boxes off the bike right now, so I’m curious if this is worth it? Also I’ve already got an Andrews EV13 cam installed. Not sure if that’s the best cam for those or not.

Bike is a ‘97 Fatboy btw.

 

Condition? Mileage??
Consider what would it cost to Re-vitalize your existing Heads!!!!

 

I've gone down the rabbit hole of exploring head work options a few times, but it's still somewhat of a mystery to me what mods make sense and what don't.

I know there's a point where it's more logical to just buy a new, bigger engine rather than get work done to an 80".

Wasn't really planning to do anything right now, but since I found this while the top end is half disassembled and it's a bolt-on mod I figured I'd at least consider it.

 

As a bolt on, they work pretty good.. but not for 500... Unless they have new springs, and valve job.. And then still a maybe... Y​​​​YYou're most likely gonna need a new ignition like Dynatek or an Ultima with selectable ignition curves and don't forget to re-jet the carb, then top it of with a new set of pipes... Preferable a 2-1.. Now you got something..
Actually corrected comp would be ok with 186 ccp should do good with the ev13 and as Racepres mentioned, how many miles? Rings?

 

I do Not think an ignition is going to enhance anything except provide a higher rev limit... Only... a Spark is a Spark... after all, both will be timed the very same...
so advance curve [may as well get a Sportster module] and rev Limit [again Sportster module, if anything] are the Only real changes....
Pipes... Absolutely... tho I dislike 2-1 personally... they tend to enhance lower RPM performance...Especially if you do Not have a set of Staggered Duals with crossover pipe [O.E.]

 

Seller is reputable but doesn't know the mileage on it. Came off a '98 Softail. Says it may need new valve guide seals.

When you say corrected comp, what does that entail?

I've replaced my own cam, clutch, stator and other parts but this level of engine work is above my head, although I want to understand it more.

 

Bike has a SE ignition already and V&H longshots. I was planning to maybe upgrade the exhaust eventually.

 

If made a mistake with last qoute, for some reason I was thinking guides. If he is going.to do valve seals have him clean the valves and seats, for $450. Don't think it would be a bad deal then..
the reason I said another ignition is with higher compression the stock ignition it's known to cause detonation at lite tip in of the throttle while cruising because of the VOES. Don't forget Cometic .030" head gaskets.. it'll be a real nice change..

 

He wasn't offering to do the valve seals, just said they may need to be replaced. Of course, he might accept a lower offer .

I'm kind of torn on the whole thing. Might be a nice boost, but also a little nervous about dealing with used pars when I already don't know much about what I'm doing in this area.

 

Just to compare, what would it cost roughly to get my heads worked by a shop for a similar gain?