So I have a 1987 FXRS and I love it. Riding season is short here in Maine so I like to be out as much as possible. I've been having a longstanding problem with my bike though. It seems the front cylinder always gets much hotter than the rear. Im not sure why. I've tried replacing plugs, cleaning out the carb (S&S) and a couple other things. I just put some aftermarket short ground pounder pipes on and you can CLEARLY see the difference on the pipes. The one going to the front cylinder is blued over from heat while the rear has not changed at all. I had the same problem with my old pipes too. I believe the rear cylinder is still firing, because it, and the exhaust going to it, do heat up during riding. I don't know if that is any indication..

I also seem to have lost some power too. Im definitely not a mechanic, but I've picked up a Clymer and im tryna learn everything as I go.. Any suggestions would be much appreciated!

 

Intake leak on the front cylinder can cause that.

 

Those ground pounder pipes aren’t doing you any favors on the power issue.

Like the previous poster said, take a good look at your intake seals.

The clymer manual is better than nothing, but keep an eye out for a legit factory service manual.