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2004 Reliability

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Old Jul 9, 2010 | 01:17 PM
  #1  
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Default 2004 Reliability

Well respected local mechanic recommends I NOT buy 2004 Ultra with 44k miles because I'm assured engine failure soon due to timing chain and bearing issues that will result in $3-$5k cost. The claim is that the best all around package was in 2002 and to not trust "higher" mileage engines after that year. Help a guy out, I'm riding a 1995 Fatboy with 63,000 miles on it and ready for a change. Nice dressers can be bought locally for $10k, but they have some miles on them. Should i be afraid???????? They cant all be ready to grenade after just 40k miles can they?

I am new to this forum and if there is a sticky I should be reading, point me in that direction and I will waste your time no further. Thanks.
 
Old Jul 9, 2010 | 01:43 PM
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Hello and welcome to HDF from NorCal... I think you will get a lot more advice on this if you post this in the Touring Section (https://www.hdforums.com/forum/touring-models-11/). Although I can not offer you any opinion, I will look forward to following the thread.
 
Old Jul 9, 2010 | 01:55 PM
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Instead of me typing one (my) opinion, just look at these links below..

https://www.hdforums.com/forum/touri...8-or-95-a.html

http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&s...=&oq=&gs_rfai=

Not sure I'd agree with him on that statement,,

I'm guessing he means that if U don't (haven't/or they were never replaced) the tensioners,,, on the 88's U will have problems,, that is true but if U read anywhere about the 88's most all articles or forums it will be stated to start checking them around 25k-35k..

Some reports anywhere from they still look new to they were almost gone at 25k.
Its a crap shoot on how long they last. Ive also read some still look new at 50K, ????

If U get an 88 used, with 30k or over, one of the first things I'd do is have them checked out/and or replaced. U can just put in new pads, or install the new HYD kit, or just go to gear cams....
 

Last edited by oct1949; Jul 9, 2010 at 01:59 PM. Reason: added
Old Jul 9, 2010 | 04:02 PM
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Welcome to the forum. Have fun here,Ride safe
 
Old Jul 9, 2010 | 04:05 PM
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Welcome aboard from Virginia.
 
Old Jul 9, 2010 | 04:53 PM
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Welcome from Kentucky.
 
Old Jul 9, 2010 | 05:09 PM
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welcome from north carolina
 
Old Jul 9, 2010 | 08:30 PM
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You've come to the right place to find your answer. Welcome!
 
Old Jul 10, 2010 | 09:04 AM
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Welcome aboard from New York.
 
Old Jul 11, 2010 | 06:48 PM
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Welcome aboard from Biloxi Mississippi!
 
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