Edit: That "m" shouldn't be there in the title, should be "stock". I blame fat fingers.

In the process of updating my 2000 Ultra Classic,12,000 miles, gear drive cams (runout is less than .001), MM to carb swap, possibly a few other things......I'll make a build thread after I've made all my choices. Motor is apart, deciding on all my parts now.

Searched a few times couldn't find an answer.......or I suck at search terminology.....

Are those fancy aftermarket head breathers really necessary? Like the billet Feuling and S&S offerings

Thank You!

For those curious about doing this at such low mileage: The bike was stored for 7 years before I bought it last Memorial day. I have the time and skills to take care of the cam bearing issue(s) before they become a problem.

I call it the "Barney Fife Method": Nip it in the bud.

 

I suspect the upgraded OEM parts will serve just fine

 

OP, your OEM breathers were updated in 2003 to the stamped steel #17045-99D breather assemblies. The HD list price is $30.70ea. Most likely cheaper than any aftermarket breathers... You could rebuild your OEM breathers with the right gaskets and umbrella valves, but the updated, stamped steel breathers are slightly lower profile, and easier to install in-frame.




In any case, they are better than the OEM type your engine came with. I have them on three Twin Cams I own, from Stage I to Stage IV mods, and they work well. Just make sure to put the umbrella valve in the correct place when putting them together. Note: last time I bought them, the pieces were all in the boxes, but I had to put them together.






I've never seen the need for any aftermarket breather assemblies, but there are a couple that are well made, but IMHO, unnecessary.


One thing I do on all my Twin Cams is run the breather tubes to the atmosphere, instead of into the air cleaner...


I hope this info helps...

 

All the info you've given me for this project has helped!! The upgraded OEM are a vastly more economical route.

Off to hunt up a good breather venting mod........Most of the pics from old threads are gone


P.S. You others that have supplied info have helped too!!

 

Personally I'd disagree with this.. If you got a bleeder, it might slow the dribble, but I doubt it stops. About the only thing that helps is the finer filter but it only works until it gets full.

I'd be real interested in finding any one that has replaced only the valve and seen a complete reduction.. No top end work.