I need some help...1997 FLHRI - stage 2 (cam, air cleaner, touring pipes, race fuelerin 2000)...(no internal problems only a base gasket and leaky rocker box 2006)...the engine was running rough, low or no idle after warm up, hesitation on applying throttle, backfiring on deceleration...sounded like a FI problem to me ...went to several dealers to have remapped with little to no luck... one said the race fueler was bad...an engine noise developed on what seemed to be top end ...took it to another dealer... the dealer had asked to open the top end, then later asked to look at the cam...and was diagnosed as a seized rod...the noise to me was from the top end...I thought if the rod had seized I wouldn't have been able to ride 35 miles to a dealer without leaving parts on the pavement.. ...now they're saying rebuild...causes of seized rod??? any thoughts??? pfl

 

how many miles on the evo? Good maintenance history?

 

Was the dealer taking a guess or did they take the top off and look?
If you were running lean for a long time then maybe something could be at fault.
What do plugs look like..are they ultra white?
An engine temp sensor could also cause eratic idle and warm-ups.
As mentioned maybe a bit more history..original owner? miles? are rods adjustable?
May wish to consider purchase of service manual and open it yourself to confirm diagnosis and decide what to do next..book is cheap and pays for itself after a simple service.
rebuild?? rebuild what ? replace rods and lifters? are cylinders scored?
if possible consider using book and forum and opening top yourself and look for damage...could be as simple as a rod and temp. sensor..or maybe it is more..