Softail changes through the years.
Thread Starter
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Cruiser
Joined: Mar 2017
Posts: 109
Likes: 17
From: Northern California
Softail changes through the years.
Anyone know of significant changes to TC softtails? More narrowly Heritage Classics with TC motors. Thinking about getting one and I am unsure when the twin cam began in the Heritage and I definitely dont know what significant changes too place prior to 2018.
Also if there is a specific release that should be avoided?
To start, what year did fuel injection begin in the heritage?
Is there a model year that should be avoided?
Any help in this matter is appreciated.
Also if there is a specific release that should be avoided?
To start, what year did fuel injection begin in the heritage?
Is there a model year that should be avoided?
Any help in this matter is appreciated.
Road Warrior
Joined: Nov 2014
Posts: 1,406
Likes: 809
From: Middle America
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 38,300
Likes: 6,325
From: Honah Lee
2008 or later. Has the roller chain on the camshafts. Once it grooves in, it ceases to wear. Probably a good idea to change the shoes at 10 years since they get hard and brittle but other than that, pretty bulletproof when driven like someone has some sense.
However, finding one that was driven by someone who has any sense and one that has not all been screwed over with aftermarket modifications is a crap shoot. Good luck.
However, finding one that was driven by someone who has any sense and one that has not all been screwed over with aftermarket modifications is a crap shoot. Good luck.
Thread Starter
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Cruiser
Joined: Mar 2017
Posts: 109
Likes: 17
From: Northern California
Looking for more current information.
2008 or later. Has the roller chain on the camshafts. Once it grooves in, it ceases to wear. Probably a good idea to change the shoes at 10 years since they get hard and brittle but other than that, pretty bulletproof when driven like someone has some sense.
However, finding one that was driven by someone who has any sense and one that has not all been screwed over with aftermarket modifications is a crap shoot. Good luck.
However, finding one that was driven by someone who has any sense and one that has not all been screwed over with aftermarket modifications is a crap shoot. Good luck.
Road Warrior
Joined: Oct 2016
Posts: 1,256
Likes: 620
From: Pittsburgh suburb
Depends on certain things IMO, like was said above the roller chains were definitely a step up - however personally if you can find a good 2002 those were the best TC engines imo, last year of the forged crank & the better bearings. you can upgrade to the roller chain / HO oil pump - then you have a dam good machine!
Now this is an 88 with a 5 speed so most are now use to bigger displacement & the 6 speed - but the 02 is a good mill to build & has EFI, the computer BS is minimal as well.
I honestly think it depends on who you are buying from & how the bike was maintained that will matter the most, Lot of good deals out there so good luck on your search.
Now this is an 88 with a 5 speed so most are now use to bigger displacement & the 6 speed - but the 02 is a good mill to build & has EFI, the computer BS is minimal as well.
I honestly think it depends on who you are buying from & how the bike was maintained that will matter the most, Lot of good deals out there so good luck on your search.
Thread Starter
|
Cruiser
Joined: Mar 2017
Posts: 109
Likes: 17
From: Northern California
Depends on certain things IMO, like was said above the roller chains were definitely a step up - however personally if you can find a good 2002 those were the best TC engines imo, last year of the forged crank & the better bearings. you can upgrade to the roller chain / HO oil pump - then you have a dam good machine!
Now this is an 88 with a 5 speed so most are now use to bigger displacement & the 6 speed - but the 02 is a good mill to build & has EFI, the computer BS is minimal as well.
I honestly think it depends on who you are buying from & how the bike was maintained that will matter the most, Lot of good deals out there so good luck on your search.
Now this is an 88 with a 5 speed so most are now use to bigger displacement & the 6 speed - but the 02 is a good mill to build & has EFI, the computer BS is minimal as well.
I honestly think it depends on who you are buying from & how the bike was maintained that will matter the most, Lot of good deals out there so good luck on your search.
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Thread Starter
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Cruiser
Joined: Mar 2017
Posts: 109
Likes: 17
From: Northern California
That sound like it then. Forged crank 2002 other than that all the TC Heritage Softails sound the same.
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Grand HDF Member
Joined: Nov 2012
Posts: 3,784
Likes: 100
From: Pasadena TX
The Heritage was Evo powered in 99, the last year Evo's were sold. The touring models were Twin Cam powered. The first six years Twin Cams had a spring loaded cam chain tensioners that have proven to be failures over time. The design was changed in 06/07 to replace the springs with hydraulic cylinders order oil pressure. The later model camplate will bolt on to the earlier engine, but requires specific cams. When I decided to do cams I found a stock plate on eBay. The guy put a billet plate in his bike and sold his old one. It's got a better oil pump too. Something to consider if your looking at an 02.
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 5,014
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From: Northern California
Some highlights and more reading for you. 2001 was the first year FI was offered. 2003 150 rear tire. 2007 TC 96 FI standard. In between there are changes to brakes, axle sizes, wheels, on and on. The forum is full of great "How-To's" if you want to have wider tires, Brembo brakes, on and on. There is so much to cover and that is what makes Harley's great! You can customize to your hearts desire!
https://www.cycleworld.com/harley-da...story-big-twin
http://www.adweek.com/brand-marketin...rcycle-174186/
http://www.motorcycle-usa.com/2006/0...s-first-rides/
https://www.cycleworld.com/harley-da...story-big-twin
http://www.adweek.com/brand-marketin...rcycle-174186/
http://www.motorcycle-usa.com/2006/0...s-first-rides/