I just bought a 2005 FLSTCI Heritage Softail Classic that was hit while parked. The front forks weren't bent, but the sliders need replacing. Is there any reason not to go with aftermarket sliders? Generally speaking, are Harley OEM parts and chrome any better than what can be had aftermarket? The damage to the bike isn't widespread, but rather focused in a small area although it's fairly severe. The impact broke the inner and outer primary cases and unfortuately it started to break off the o-ring lip of the engine main case where the inner primary bolts to it. Even worse is the hole in the case for the forward uppermost engine mount has two cracks about 1 inch long. This bike has only 2559 miles and is otherwise new, so my first instinct is to bite the bullet, buy new cases and put my time in repairing it. I just wanted to know what you more knowledgeable Hog riders thought about this. Oh, did I mention the end of the crank with the flywheel on it is bent too? Will I have any problem finding someone that can straighten the end of the crank? Thanks loads for any advice you can offer.

 

if the end of the crank is bent then I would think you will need a new crank at the very least, but F' that, I would get your insurance co involved and get them to replace the whole engine along with fixing everything else thats damaged.
it's not worth trying to do this by yourself, especially since you didn't do the damage.
that's why you pay for insurance!

 

Yeah, but what I didn't make clear is that I bought this bike wreaked. I bought it at a salvage auction for $6900. Being as I'm doing the work myself, I'll come out way ahead but insurance claim are obviously not an option. When I split the cases to replace them, I can take the crank to a shop to see if it was only bent on the end or if it tweaked it throughout. If it's in tolerance everywhere else, I figure they might be able to straighten the end. Of course a new crank is always an option.

 

AHhhhhh.....................

I see now, in that case I would still replace the crank, and while you're in there build yourself a nice engine.

 

Definatly replace the crank, its a hardened piece of steel and if its bent bending it back will just crack it now or give it someplace to crack later. Fixing it "properly" would entail the use of an induction furnace to soften the steel for bending and then rehardening it afterwards.
Its cheaper and smarter to just call it a cool wall decoration and leave it at that.
As for the fork sliders, aftermarket pieces are often equal too or better than factory originals. You just need to stick to the better named brands, they may not be the cheapest. But the better brands (Pro One, Arlen Ness, etc.) will stand behind the products they make and or sell. Stay away from evil-bay unless its for brand named parts. Some of the stuff that's sold on there should be reclassified as not much better than odd shaped scrap metal.

 

I figured that's what I'd hear. So, other than rings and gaskets I should have to replace anything else like main seals and bearing wouldn't you say? What about my inner and outer primary cases. I've heard that OEM is the best to avoid leakage. Harley wants about $300 for each in chrome, I've seen them for less on "Evil-Bay" as you call it and I've seen them for as much as $600 and $900 which I can't imagine why anyone would pay that. Just trying to get an idea of what's what you know.

 

Unfortunatly I don't know of anyplace that's "best" for parts like that. But try looking around at S&S or Baker to see what they might have for you.
I don't think it would "fit" the style of a bagger, but there is always the open belt option.

 

As you know you took on a major project. I have done a few groung up and basket case build and if I may I will try to help. Think safety not money. Tear down too bare frame and take lots of notes and pictures. This is the only way to know the true extent of damage. Check frame for cracks, bends& twists. If the frame is not right the rest of the work is for naught. Sounds like the motor took most of the damage. Stock cases can be repaired.Like the frame they have the matching numbers. Check for line bore true and in tolorence, before replacing your crank assembly.If you can get, assembly that is balanced and ready to go.S&S, Jims ,or whomever you prefer.Remember this is a softail "B" motor with internal balance when searching parts. As far as other parts if you use e-bay, look for dealer take off. Stuff that was taken off before delivery. They may not be chrome but they are oem new. Front end and motor parts go cheap if you look. I hope I have been some help to you. These projects always cost more than we plan. Also look for someone who has done a big bore strocker build, you may be able to get thier stock parts for a good price. Good luck.