Fat Boy project
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3rd Gear
Joined: Dec 2020
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From: Mandalore
Fat Boy project
Hey guys, I'm looking to buy an older Fat Boy to make somewhat of a project bike out of. I'm new to Harleys and need some recommendations. From what I have already read, it seems a lot of guys prefer the Evolution engine as opposed to the twin cam from the early 2000's with their cam chain tensioner issues. I'm looking to do engine work myself so I think I'm wanting to stay carbureted if possible. I don't really have an end goal for this yet. All I know is I want it to be fairly loud and peppy down low. let me know what you guys think as far as a model year range to look at or avoid. Thanks!
Road Warrior
Joined: Nov 2015
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From: anywhere
bike
Hey guys, I'm looking to buy an older Fat Boy to make somewhat of a project bike out of. I'm new to Harleys and need some recommendations. From what I have already read, it seems a lot of guys prefer the Evolution engine as opposed to the twin cam from the early 2000's with their cam chain tensioner issues. I'm looking to do engine work myself so I think I'm wanting to stay carbureted if possible. I don't really have an end goal for this yet. All I know is I want it to be fairly loud and peppy down low. let me know what you guys think as far as a model year range to look at or avoid. Thanks!
Supporter
Joined: Sep 2006
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From: San Ramon, Ca
I would say 00-02. Lwr end better.
You WILL need to check the timing chain tensioners.
But you can just change the pads if $ is an issue.
But in those years gear drive is a slam dunk.
00 would be carb. 01-02 Delphi F/Inj (or carb)
I would opt for carbureted. MUCH simpler and easier
to work with. I've had both. With stage 1 (pipes, Air Fltr
& re-jet (Or SERT tune.) The carb version runs better. Period !!
But . . . Can't go wrong either way. Good bullet proof platform
You WILL need to check the timing chain tensioners.
But you can just change the pads if $ is an issue.
But in those years gear drive is a slam dunk.
00 would be carb. 01-02 Delphi F/Inj (or carb)
I would opt for carbureted. MUCH simpler and easier
to work with. I've had both. With stage 1 (pipes, Air Fltr
& re-jet (Or SERT tune.) The carb version runs better. Period !!
But . . . Can't go wrong either way. Good bullet proof platform
Last edited by byersmtrco; Dec 15, 2020 at 12:16 PM.
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3rd Gear
Joined: Dec 2020
Posts: 7
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From: Mandalore
I just bought a 2002 fatboy with the twin cam engine. So far I have rebuilt the calipers front and rear also the master cylinders, changed all the oils (messy job) so I ordered the relocate filter from DK Customs, rebuilt the carb, had the hydraulic cam chain system installed $1900.00 Canadian, changed fork oil checked all the bolts for the correct torque. The bike has 24,000 miles on it and runs great. I did all the work myself with the help of the FSM except the cam chain system. I think the early twin cams were the best motors as they still have the good crank and are easier to get parts for than the older Evos. My dealer had all the parts I needed in stock but not many parts for the Evo in stock but could be ordered
I would say 00-02. Lwr end better.
You WILL need to check the timing chain tensioners.
But you can just change the pads if $ is an issue.
But in those years gear drive is a slam dunk.
00 would be carb. 01-02 Delphi F/Inj (or carb)
I would opt for carbureted. MUCH simpler and easier
to work with. I've had both. With stage 1 (pipes, Air Fltr
& re-jet (Or SERT tune.) The carb version runs better. Period !!
But . . . Can't go wrong either way. Good bullet proof platform
You WILL need to check the timing chain tensioners.
But you can just change the pads if $ is an issue.
But in those years gear drive is a slam dunk.
00 would be carb. 01-02 Delphi F/Inj (or carb)
I would opt for carbureted. MUCH simpler and easier
to work with. I've had both. With stage 1 (pipes, Air Fltr
& re-jet (Or SERT tune.) The carb version runs better. Period !!
But . . . Can't go wrong either way. Good bullet proof platform
Thanks for the info guys. So it seems like if Im looking at an early 2000s twin cam model, I should be asking if and when the pads were replaced or if it has been upgraded to the HD hydraulic tensioner or if it has the gear driven kit. Does that sound correct? Im seeing a lot more pre 2000s in my price range so we will see. Im not opposed to doing the engine work myself, after all it is a project bike, but I dont wanna pay $5k for a bike that needs a complete tear down right away either. Thanks again for input fellas.
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