I have been seeing some posts about cam issues on HD throughout the forum and in other internet pages. My ride is an '05 Ultra Classic with about 34K on it. While I am quite content with the bike I don't want to miss anything that could possibly be a sign that a possible cam issue was developing.

As a person that is new to the HD experience, what should I be looking for to prevent any issues?

Are there any clues that may indicate a developing problem?

If I do at some point start to have 'cam problems' what exactly is it that I will need to do to resolve them?

 

Have your cam chain shoes looked at. Many have been replacing their shoes.

 

PM sent.

 

http://www.harley-davidson-hangout.c...ner-check.html

 

pm sent

 

Well, I went by the local HD today and asked what it would cost to replace the cam torsion brackets. Parts: $261.50; Labor 4 hours $316.00; Shop supplies and tax $38.28; Total was $615.88.

 

All it will cost you to look at them yourself is one exhaust gasket and the gasket for the cam chest., maybe $5. Then if they're bad, you can decide on some action. I have an 04 with more mileage than yours, they're still good for another 10k or so before I replace them. Might as well check them. It is a 4 beer job.

 

and oil...

 

Check em' out and go from there...

 

Shoes are the weak link as mentioned, if (when) they go, you'll probably be looking at a motor. I just changed my cam plate to the S/E with the better oil pump, well, along with some new jugs, headwork and bigger cams.

I would say at the least, change the cam plate, bearings and oil pump and some nice cams (ahem 211's for me).

Here's the cam plate:
http://www.harley-davidson.com/gma/g...bmLocale=en_US