My case cracked on lower right side under oil pump area. Is this weldable for a fix or should I buy new case. I don't want to spend $2500 plus labor at HD for rebuild program. Any thoughts??

 

Either way, it's coming apart. A not uncommon issue with your year, from what I read here on the forum. I would take it apart and get a skilled TIG welder to weld it up, but that's just me.

 

OUCH !
Can you provide some GOOD pics. of the crack as many types of repair is possible but a good look the affected area is needed to help.

 

I haven't pulled engine and dismantled yet. I got some $$ right now so am researching what might be best strategy. I'll post pics when I split the crankcase. Thanks for your interest.

 

im not trying to hjack your thread, but ive read alot about this. I was wondering if its anything specific that causes this? being built? age? Im just worried mine will do the same.....

 

That is worth a try...but some cast aluminum that has been subjected to oil simply cannot be welded very well...it all depends on how porous the casting is. The problem is the porous castings are the ones that usually crack. No matter what you clean the casting with, when you put the heat on it, the oil comes to the surface and contaminates the weld...unless you send it to a shop that specializes welding harley cases, chances of a sound repair are slim...and they ain't cheap. I would say an ebay motor from one of the bike dismantlers, would be the cheapest fix...but I would spring for the HD rebuild.

 

+1 on the HD rebuild. Brand spanking new with a warranty, and still all Harley.

 

"And still all Harley." I may be wrong here, but doesn't the factory also stamp your old vin number on the new motor so you also don't have the hassles of registration with your State?

 

Hi Doc,not trying to hijack thread. Im just interested in "not uncommon issue with your year" (1990). How does engine in 91 evo Ultra rate re. similar fault/s. Any reply much appreciated. Bungo.

 

You can get a new set of cases, the dealer will send in the old case (or just the part with the serial number on it) and you will get new cases with your original number, they will not have the weakness issues of the old cases.

I would not spend any money attempting repair on `90 cases, there are other issues with those, which could show up later, and then you would be banging your head against the wall wishing you had replaced them to begin with.

If it were my bike, I would go with the re manufactured engine from Harley, it is the best deal going.