My 2012 Softail Deluxe seems to be a bit louder these last few thousand miles. Of course, it's always hard to tell exactly where it comes from, but at start up the lifters seem to chatter a bit. They settle down after I ride a little, but to me it is still there somewhat. Or, maybe it's the sound of the combination of the tranny and compensator sprocket. Usually persists at about 2200 to 2400 RPM's in 3rd & 4th gear and maybe 45mph or so. I do meticulous maintenance...all fluids and adjustments are up to date every 5k. In fact, I'm so ****, I do all three fluids every 5k and even s**t can the spark plugs! Anyone else have a loud 103?

 

Many Twin Cam engines are noisier than others, and that is just the way they are...

It would bother me, as you report, that this noise is a recent change in the engine's behavior....

New sounds or sound changes, could be signs of something that is getting worn and could lead to failure...

You don't say how many total miles are on your bike, but the 2012 bikes have the "C" lifters (#18538-99C). They are thought to be substandard by many, and total junk by some... Some usually check/change them out @ 50K miles, or shortly after if they are making noise. I usually go into the cam chest for cams and/or other mods well before 50K miles... I always change out the "C" lifters and inner cam bearings whenever I go into the cam chest on a twin cam engine.

In your case, if over 50K miles, and it seems like the noise is coming from the cam chest (use a stethoscope), I'd probably go into the cam chest when convenient to change out the lifters and inner cam bearings. If lower mileage, I would try to locate the source of the noise (it could be many things) but I would keep a critical ear on it, and if it gets worse, I'd be doing some exploring...

Good luck with your noise...

 

Thank you sir. I've got 46k on the bike now. I have a crack Indy who does all my work. I will get him on the stethoscope right quick. Was leaning toward getting into him soon anyway before we head out on any long hauls

 

At that rpm range (2200-2400) you could be lugging it. Not saying that's your noise. Above 2500 rpm is better. 3rd gear @ 45 mph is ok (not 4th)

 

I have 2014 sgs, I had to change my lifters out at 12k miles do to a defective lifter.

 

I reckon its eaten a lifter. 103s don’t tend to have the compensator noise of the 96’s as they have the upgraded unit.

And the fact that its come on suddenly makes me think a lifter.

 

Twin Cams can have top end clatter that comes and goes. 95% of the time it is cured with Rocker Lockers

They lock the rocker arm shafts in place so they don't rotate and tick against the support plate bolts.

Here's a video on them-