It is known that some models and some years present common and specific problems. Even more when there are important changes from the previous year. 1999 was the first year for the Twin Cam 1450. Asking because I bought my 1999 Ultra Classic and I want to be prepared. Thanks.

 

cam bearings!!

 

LeoHD is right on...They may have been swapped-out thou...any way of telling? from previous owner maybe...

B

 

Cam bearing, and cam tensioners (but that's most TC 88s)

I have 50k+ plus on my '99 RK. Did the cam bearing years ago, and tensioners will be this winter.

Outside of a new starter it runs like a top! I have the carb which I really like.

 

My only problem with my 99 Ultra is I cant stop riding it and my wife forgets what I look like-other than that, its been spectacular!

 

Thanks leohd, what is the problem with the cam bearings and what could I do?

 

Replace the cam bearings with torringtons, and replace the chain drive system with gear driven cams and you will run that engine for 100K or more. Same issues here with my 01 Ultra and I'm at 98K miles with no signs of needing a rebuild any time soon.

 

When you guys talk about going to a different bearing do you mean going from a caged needle to a non-caged needle bearing of good quality (like Torrington, Timken, and the other brand that the auto-censor for this forum will not let me spell, that is pronounced PHAG, etc.) on the 2 inner set?

I 'think' this is what I'm reading when I search this subject, but haven't seen a thread that actually spells out exactly what bearings, and has the mfg. and part numbers?

I'd be very grateful if someone could provide that information, and/or correct my understanding of exactly what is needed and why.

 

I just had the timing chain tensioner upgrade done, had the bearings replaced at the same time, I have 67K on my 99 RKC, I love it, only other problems I have had are just wear and tear from age.
Terry