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Finned headbolt bridge

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Old Aug 29, 2021 | 07:45 PM
  #11  
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I could see where the chrome ones like I have could possibly restrict air flow but, from my experience the ham can air cleaner is more of a restriction to air flow over the heads, especially the rear cylinder. I replaced the ham can on my Sportster with the SE Chiseled air cleaner and saw head temps drop from the 380-390*F range to the low/mid 360*F range.
 
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Old Aug 29, 2021 | 07:46 PM
  #12  
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Originally Posted by mkayx
harley states they increase air flow to increase cooling
I agree with Harley-Davidson, the extra finning on the bridges will assist the cooling around the spark plug area rather than hinder it.
 
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Old Aug 29, 2021 | 08:06 PM
  #13  
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To me, they're an aesthetic decision. If you would like to discuss air-flow dynamics or heat exchange properties, those topics would probably be better addressed at a different forum.. As for Mother Harley and her concern for longevity, it's gotta get past the warranty period. Beyond that, it's job security.
Personally, I like the finned head-bolt look.
If you find heat-rated spray paint in a color you deem acceptable, they can be any color you like.
 
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Old Aug 29, 2021 | 09:01 PM
  #14  
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Originally Posted by HarleyScuba
To me, they're an aesthetic decision. If you would like to discuss air-flow dynamics or heat exchange properties, those topics would probably be better addressed at a different forum.. As for Mother Harley and her concern for longevity, it's gotta get past the warranty period. Beyond that, it's job security.
Personally, I like the finned head-bolt look.
If you find heat-rated spray paint in a color you deem acceptable, they can be any color you like.
Seeing how it is a question dealing with sportsters it is in the correct forum.
no one said anything about paint other then you if you read the post you would see i plan on putting harleys claim to yhe test
 
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Old Aug 29, 2021 | 10:09 PM
  #15  
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Originally Posted by mkayx
Seeing how it is a question dealing with sportsters it is in the correct forum.
no one said anything about paint other then you if you read the post you would see i plan on putting harleys claim to yhe test
Yes.
Please post your flow charts and bar graphs of your findings on how your personal wind tunnel divulges the true cooling effect, or lack there of, on the installation of finned head-bolt bridges on a Sportster. Make sure to specify the model year, and keep it consistent. Be certain to include the analysis of a 1200 vs.an 883, with control groups for comparison.
I expect a Methods section, in your report. If your results are not repeatable, they're invalid.
We appreciate your time and enthusiasm.
Also, some jugs have black fins. Some, do not. Hence, the mention of color.
Another thing, in my personal opinion...chill out.
Thank you for your efforts.
 
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Old Aug 30, 2021 | 06:07 AM
  #16  
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Originally Posted by HarleyScuba
Yes.
Please post your flow charts and bar graphs of your findings on how your personal wind tunnel divulges the true cooling effect, or lack there of, on the installation of finned head-bolt bridges on a Sportster. Make sure to specify the model year, and keep it consistent. Be certain to include the analysis of a 1200 vs.an 883, with control groups for comparison.
I expect a Methods section, in your report. If your results are not repeatable, they're invalid.
We appreciate your time and enthusiasm.
Also, some jugs have black fins. Some, do not. Hence, the mention of color.
Another thing, in my personal opinion...chill out.
Thank you for your efforts.
do not get your panties in a bunch, take the time to read each post.
You will see harley makes the claim they provide better air flow for cooling, i am going to put it to the test by seeing if i get better cooling temp not air flow.
the control will be my 1200 warmed up 20 min 41% humity 6mph wind from the east 120 degree air temp without the bridge bike runs 381 degrees idle temp 402 sitting for 3 minutes.
so i placed an online order when i get the bridge i will just wait for the next 120 degree day since it is only going on sept buckeye will have a few more and using the base line temp we will see if....
temp is hotter false claim
Temp is the same for looks only
Temp is lower claim is supportted

But you should really read and understand all post before posting
 
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Old Aug 30, 2021 | 06:45 AM
  #17  
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IDK, I've been a member here a long time, and have yet to read about any heat related failure on a Sportster. Not one. No "holed" pistons, no seized cranks, nothing. Sure, they can get hot, but after 60 years I think H-D has a handle on that issue. Now, meeting emission standards with an ancient engine design? Not so much.

If you like the look, get them. But, I wouldn't worry about any significant cooling effect as a reason for purchase. I'd put the money toward better tires and a brake system upgrade, be it better pads or an entire caliper upgrade (Wilwood) like I put on my 1250 build. JMHO.

John
 
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Old Aug 30, 2021 | 07:03 AM
  #18  
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Originally Posted by John Harper
IDK, I've been a member here a long time, and have yet to read about any heat related failure on a Sportster. Not one. No "holed" pistons, no seized cranks, nothing. Sure, they can get hot, but after 60 years I think H-D has a handle on that issue. Now, meeting emission standards with an ancient engine design? Not so much.

If you like the look, get them. But, I wouldn't worry about any significant cooling effect as a reason for purchase. I'd put the money toward better tires and a brake system upgrade, be it better pads or an entire caliper upgrade (Wilwood) like I put on my 1250 build. JMHO.

John
do not care what you may or may not have heard.
I have not of any eitherthat is not the issue here and i do not care how long your a member on a forum if you do not have any real input about the question asked in the post.
 
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Old Aug 30, 2021 | 07:16 AM
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Old Aug 30, 2021 | 08:04 AM
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