Posted this in the Dyna forum but someone suggested posting here as well:

Which would be my first Harley but not my first bike. Been riding for 40 years. Local guy is selling a 1996 Dyna with 10K miles on it. Always garaged, etc.

Was hoping someone could guide me as to any issues that I should look for. Also how many different Dyna models did they make in 1996?

Would most of you have a mechanic take a look - even with only 10K on the clock?

Any info or issues specific to 1996 model would be appreciated!

Thanks,

Dave

 

Its an early Dyna with an Evo engine, which is why it is a good idea to post in here! They fitted the twincam in 1998. There are no serious issues with the late evos. If you are not sure what model it is can you post a pic of it? The experts will soon pick out what it is even if it has been customised!

 

should be attached... it's the only pic I've got...

 

Looks like an FXDX Convertible. Its got the twin discs and the saddlebags look right (there are a lot of different bags out there). The saddlebags and windshield should be easy detachable, which would help confirm that. If it is, its one of the top versions of the Dyna range for that period. So you can go on a serious tour, take the qd things off when you get there and strut your stuff!

Hopefully someone else will chip in, so I am not the only one commenting. But is a good model to choose and has an attractive low mileage. Of course I am biased, as I have a later FXDXT with detachables! Frankly it looks close to stock, so hasn't been messed around with, which in my book helps make it more attractive, especially if it is a good price.

 

EVO issues that have come up from time to time are; 1. Harley went to an INA bearing for the inner cam bearing in 1992 or so. It's a cheper bearing than the Torrington that preceded it, those that have had issues with cam bearings suggest that it's around 30,000 miles. 2. Lifters that Harley used have been issues for some, at around 50,000 miles. 3. The seal between the primary and the engine case can leak, but I believe most that have experienced this own earlier EVO's (80's and low 90's). 4. Some have experienced excessive oil through the breathers from wet sumping. There is a lot of documentation here concerning this and I don't think it's EVO specific. 5. Wheel bearings are the old style, packable with grease. This is not a drawback, in my opinion. The sealed bearings used now days seem to be suspect.

Any other "troubles" can be attributed to normal wear and tear on any bike. From my limited experience, EVOs are great engines as long as fluids are changed regularly, as well as, other maintenance items called for in the service manual. THey can really be "woken up" with the addition of a mild cam upgrade, which is quite easily done by most anyone who knows the box end from the open end of a wrench. If the price is satisfactory, I'd say go for it. 10,000 miles is practically brand new!

 

I would change all the oils and filter, also check the dates on the tyres. If they are several years old, time to replace them. Then ride off into the sunset!

 

Looks like a great bike and the miles make it more appealling. I have found this engine to be awesome. The bike is easy to work on and lots of fun to ride. I would definitely ask for a cold start, though. I always like to start one with a cold engine just to listen and to see how it fires up. Other than that, if it seemed well-maintained and the price was fair, I probably wouldn't take it to a mechanic.

Graham is right about the tires, though his spelling is suspect , and that might be a way to negotiate the price down a little. If they are real old, you would want to replace them just as a point of safety. Then, find a low brick wall and burn the rear one for a while.... ahhhhhhh, the smell of smokin a tire!

 

You say tomaytoe and I say tomartoe, but don't use me as a bargaining tool! Post pics when you get it home.

 

I had the Dyna Convertible and rode it hard and often. Those EVO's rock. Keot up with regiular oil changes etc... but no issues at all!

 

Pretty sure that by '96 they had bolted the engine and tranny together so the primary case stopped cracking.
As others have said, Evos have lifters and inner cam bearings that expire all too early. But at 10,000 miles it should be a long time before you have to worry about that. Although waking up any Harley Big Twin with a new cam is always a good idea.