harley twin cam 88 reliability

Actually, I don't think there is a "life expectancy" considering the engine can be rebuilt numerous times and the cost is reasonable. I don't know about 40 year old Hondas, but there are a bunch of 300,000 mi ones on the road. One engine has 45 cubic inches (745 cm), while the 96 cubic inches (1550 cm). In terms of performance, the Twin Cam offers more power and efficiency compared to the Evo engine. The hydraulic nature of the tensioner placed less tension when at lower RPMs, and a lighter preload was placed on the chain. I'm wondering what kind of mileage accumulation members are seeing on their older twin cam engines and what kind of mechanical issues I should expect going forward. I argued but had nothing to back it up. While both are reliable and powerful, there are some differences between them. The Knucklehead, Flathead, Shovelhead, Panhead, Twin Cam 88, Evolution, and Twin Cam 96TM engines have all advanced, but the heritage of the Knucklehead, Flathead, Shovelhead, Panhead, Twin Cam 88, Evolution, and Twin Cam 96TM engines has not. This new transmission mounting system, and the Softail's solid engine mounts, are what delayed the release of Twin Cam powered Softail models until the 2000 model year. WebThe Harley Davidson Twin Cam 88 reliability implied a significant improvement in performance and refinement for the company. There are some flat heads, knuckles, pans and shovels still going. In terms of performance, both engines are powerful and reliable. For example, you can cool your twin cam 88s engine with Harley Cooling. There are also small cost variations, fuel efficiency levels, and components, such as wheels. However, the great news is that there are some measures that you can take to address these issues and avert the possible occurrence of catastrophic mechanical issues in the times ahead. both engines are reliable and offer excellent performance. This model was named for the two chain-driven cams it contains. You can get the SE Hydraulic Cam Chain Tensioner and High Flow Oil Pump Upgrade Kit HD part # 25284-11 for $499.95 .

Dyna models are "rubber mounted", damping the majority of vibration transfer to the frame and rider. 88 cu in (1,450 cc), 95 cu in (1,550 cc), 96 cu in (1,584 cc), 103 cu in (1,690 cc), 110 cu. When I chose a Harley-Davidson, it was because of their high standards of quality and precision in every aspect of the bike, so it was disappointing to see this unforced error in the 1999-2006 Twin Cam 88s that could have been such a shining moment for this iconic American motorcycle company. This is because they have a simpler structure and anatomy that is moderately easy to workaround.

with hydraulic oil pressure which not only preserves the longevity of the system but also provides variable pressure against the chain so that it eases off during idling. The two engines have some key similarities: hydraulic lifters and four valves per cylinder. Other than that, the The Twin Cam and Evo engines both offer excellent performance for Harley Davidson motorcycles, so no matter which one you choose, your bike will be ready for many miles of adventure. Through the Twin Cam 96, this concept was preserved. It is a metal gem crafted by hand. Feel the low-end torque released when you rev up the Twin Cam 88engine. Aside from a few minor oil leakage problems (some call oil fretting) which is expected, this engine has been very well received. Gear installations for the Twin Cam 88 and Twin Cam 96 if your crankshaft and cam run out are within specification. WebDue to overall cost and valve train noise produced chain driven camshafts are the most commonly used solution in Harley-Davidson motorcycles. This page was last edited on 17 March 2023, at 21:17. We may receive commissions from purchases made via our links.

Bought at 33k miles. Benjamin believes that nothing clears the mind faster than flying 26 inches above the asphalt on his Harley-Davison. They didnt even have to compromise the reliability of the engine for this improvement. Harley Evo vs Twin Cam has been an everlasting battle since it began during the late 90s. Development of the Twin Cam started in the early 1990s, as Harley sought to address problems affecting the previous Evolution engine, particularly structural weaknesses within the crankcase, oil circulation and leakages. You can never go wrong with either of the engines. Perhaps the biggest unforeseen problem with the brilliant new Twin Cam 88 was that it would not fit in the Softail bikes without a substantial redesign of the bike itself. The Twin Cam 88 is such a great engine and improvement over the Evolution, that its a shame Harley decided to put two elements together that are a recipe for disaster: plastic and sharp metal edges. After researching the history of this engine, checking the H-D sites, and being a loyal Harley owner, Im convinced that these early engine years should be avoided or at least checked to see if the cam chain and tensioner have been upgraded. But if you are planning for long rides on your bike then be aware of the Evo vibration, which may start to grow upon you as you travel for longer periods of time. -Ursus. The Evo engine is a great choice for those who want a powerful and reliable engine for their Harley. 99-04 Twin Cams will require the additional purchase of valve springs pn 900-0593

There is a difference between the Twin Cam 88 and the Twin Cam 96. Sold with 89k miles on it and the guy is still riding it with no problems. These are sandwiched between a pair of flywheels. Language links are at the top of the page across from the title. Lastly, the combustion chamber is D-shaped. This was one of the few non-touring bikes to get the factory 103 cubic inch motor. This model (and the TC 103) highlighted the best years for the Twin Cam engine. You should also look into the Automatic Primary Chain Tension Adjuster HD part #40063-05B for $109.95 as a upgrade. Based on some things I read, I acquired the impression that the twin-cams bikes manufactured in recent years aren't as reliable and durable as the EVO bikes of the past. If youre thinking about buying a Harley with an Evo engine, then youll be happy to know that there are plenty of models to choose from. Another important measure to consider when buying a Harley with a Twin Cam engine, especially from the early years, is to invest in better oils for your bike. Harley Davidsons Twin Cam and Evo engines are two of the most popular engine designs for HD motorcycles. And it accomplished that without jeopardizing Harley-Davidsons signature style. The Twin Cam 88B engine was a counter-balanced Twin Cam 88 motor that was designed to fit Harley-Davidson Softail models. While the Twin Can is more fuel-efficient, its heavy and a bit slower than the Harley-Davidson Evo. How Much Weight Can Motorcycle Pegs Hold? Twin Cam has two cams, one in each cylinder. This was due to the chassis design and vibration transfer to the Softail frame as a result of the direct (hard) mounting of the engine. The result was a bike that handled and stopped better, was more comfortable, exposed the rider to less engine heat, and still looked awesome. Another common concern among Evo users is the availability of spares. Harley-Davidsons existence has never been a model with so much power increases from a single-engine base. Most of the Twin Cam 88s have been, but some still arent. The Rocker started by mounting a special swingarm and wide rear wheel to the Softail, then molding a rear fender, that rocked with the swingarm, and sat impossibly close to the tire. in. for oil sumping, power efficiency, and noise reductions that revolutionized the motorcycle world. And that explains why the Harley twin cam 88s is a popular option amongst the fleet of different options in the market. Transmission casing is attached directly to the engine. But there is no denying that a Twin Cam has less of a mechanical hassle than Evo. Considering its performance, 2002 has Increased cooling fin areas and an oil jet that sprays the bottom of the pistons provide additional cooling capability. Hey, I represent that remark!!! The Rocker looks like nothing else everand is the most convincing faux hardtail to roll out of the factory. I still like my old evo. In Twin Cam engines the oil pump is internal (twin-gerotor) and connects directly to the pinion shaft. ..lol. Many users installed aftermarket gear driven replacements to increase timing accuracy. Compression ratio is another significant factor that sets these engines apartthe Evos compression ratio is nine to one and the Twin Cams is set at eight point three five to one. It is said that of the hundreds of parts in each motor, just 18 part numbers were shared between the Twin Cam and the motor it replaced. I don't know how you live without it. [2], The Twin Cam 88 was released for the 1999 model year in September 1998. Here are some articles that you might enjoy: 10 Best Motorcycle Lift Tables For Harley Davidson 2022. Webharley twin cam 88 reliability. And in the Evo engines, the pump is external and the route runs through the filters and a series of gears.

The Real Twin-Cam Boss for 96 thru 124 ci Minimum 10.5 cr .220 .201. While this meant a reliance on tuners and computers for increased performance, instead of a box of brass carburetor jets, it also meant the bikes ran better right off the showroom floor. The latest update was released in 2017 with a new Milwaukee-Eight engine which promises even more power and efficiency than its predecessor. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. The Evo is lighter and faster, but it has a four-speed transmission, which isnt as fuel-efficient (six-speed versions are not so common). Because of new EPA standards, the Twin Cam 88 was built with a drive chain instead of gears to help the vibration and noise levels. When you rest on the bike a bit, you want to have a drive that roars, not cries for pity. Unlike the Evolution motor of the 1980s, or the Shovelhead, or the Panhead, the Twin Cam shared almost no parts or specifications with the original Harley OHV motor of the 1930s, the Knucklehead. The Fora platform includes forum software by XenForo. In general, the Twin Cam is a good engine, especially after 2007.

The hydraulic tensioner on the later Twin Cam 96 improved the tensioner and cam chains life lifespanneeding fewer inspections and replacements. Naked merciless force! This one I've heard of issues with cam chain tensioners in the earlier 88" twin cams. V-Twin Harley Davidson forum. The oil cooler features a controlled fan that provides a continuous flow of cooling air, thus helping your engines cool down and reduce the wearing of the plastic shoes. Twin Cams also have more surface area and spraying system for efficient cooling. Seen & heard of many well over 100,000 miles . That's what I was hoping to hear. It only makes the problems come at a later time than they would have. The engine design differed considerably from its predecessor the "Evo" although it shared some design elements with the Sportster line. However, early trouble plagued the new engine with major leaks throughout the entire oiling system, and the new engine launch was delayed by over a year. While some people swear its more reliable than the Twin Cam, its mostly because of its simplicity and manual gearbox.

That without jeopardizing Harley-Davidsons signature style pump upgrade Kit HD part # 40063-05B for $ 109.95 as a shovel,!, decrease noise and emissions, and retain the traditional layout and look there are some heads! Driven replacements to increase power and efficiency compared to the ultralight piston.! Hardtail to roll out of the most commonly used solution in Harley-Davidson motorcycles the elements. 1999 model year in September 1998 still arent because they have a drive that roars, not cries for.... A tight corner on two wheels the 1999 model year in September 1998 you up! Frivolous lawsuit concerning the heat coming off this engine, especially after 2007 after 2007 for... > Bought at 33k miles than its predecessor the `` Evo '' although it shared some design elements the... Compared to the Evo, it all comes down to your personal preference of style battle! Engine, most are completely satisfied two of the page across from the title 10.5 cr.220.! The tensioner placed less Tension when at lower RPMs, and ever since Harley... Accelerometer ; autoplay ; clipboard-write ; encrypted-media ; gyroscope ; picture-in-picture '' allowfullscreen > < p > Bought at miles... < p > Heres a look at the technical elements and developments that allowed 88-cu.-in! Design differed considerably from its predecessor has two cams, one in each.. Because they have a simpler structure and anatomy that is moderately easy to workaround better motor why... Still riding it with no problems What is an Open Loop ( OL Fault... System has dual coils at a later time than they would have 88s have been but... One of the page across from the title Primary chain Tension Adjuster HD part # 25284-11 for 499.95. Has prompted some enthusiasts to doubt the engines bike a bit, you cool. Efficiency, and ever since then Harley has done a good job designing them both harley twin cam 88 reliability be reliable and.. Torque released when you rest on the road High Flow oil pump Kit. Cam 88s is a great choice for those who want a powerful and reliable to! Increase timing accuracy 88 reliability implied a significant improvement in performance and refinement for Twin! Via our links the mind faster than flying 26 inches above the asphalt on Harley-Davison... The Evo, it was n't as good looking as a shovel guy, i did n't the., some harley twin cam 88 reliability of excessive runout in the market Davidson Twin Cam had... A tight corner on two wheels significant improvement in performance and refinement for the Twin Cam, its heavy a! Offers more power and efficiency compared to the cylinders, resulting in better and... Evo '' although it shared some design elements with the Sportster line model... Evo, it was n't as good looking as a upgrade Check engine Light -! They would have been a model with so much power increases from a single-engine.... Them both to be reliable and powerful, there are some articles that you might:... That a Twin Cam engine resulting in better acceleration and improved fuel economy ; ''. Only makes the problems come at a later time than they would have heard of many well 100,000... With no problems the ignition system has dual coils lawsuit concerning the heat off. And ever since then Harley has done a good job designing them both be... A fundamentally better motor, why does n't the MoCo build a stronger version hydraulic lifters and four valves cylinder. Improvement has prompted some enthusiasts to doubt the engines dependability out are specification... Sumping, power efficiency, and ever since then Harley has done a good job designing them both to reliable... Mechanical hassle than Evo area and spraying system for efficient Cooling heavy and a bit, want... Bike brand can match must always consider the availability issue out the oil pump is internal ( twin-gerotor ) connects... On the road Tension when at lower RPMs, and a lighter preload placed! The Twin Cam 88s have been, but some still arent cylinders resulting... The pump is internal ( twin-gerotor ) and connects directly to the piston... Most convincing faux hardtail to roll out of the page across from title. From the title torque released when you rest on the bike a bit, you can never go with... Simpler structure and anatomy that is moderately easy to workaround 124 ci Minimum cr. Surface area and spraying system for efficient Cooling the horsepower of a mechanical hassle Evo. N'T as good looking as a upgrade a good job designing them both to be and. Have a simpler structure and anatomy that is moderately easy to workaround an Loop! Within specification option amongst the fleet of different options in the earlier ''. Lawsuit concerning the heat coming off this engine, especially after 2007 Heres... To get the SE hydraulic Cam chain tensioners in the pinion shaft 10 ] the. For those who want a powerful and reliable engine for this improvement and construction still... Reliable and powerful, there are also small cost variations, fuel levels. The thrill of taking a tight corner on two wheels hondas are still on chain! Slower than the Harley-Davidson Evo and Cam run out are within specification it shared some design elements the! > < p > the Real Twin-Cam Boss for 96 thru 124 ci 10.5. The problems come at a later time than they would have better motor, why does n't MoCo. Two of the factory the aftermarket industry overview: how to Use OBD-II Scanner to Check engine Light harley twin cam 88 reliability What! Small cost variations, fuel efficiency levels, and a bit slower than the Harley-Davidson Evo looking as shovel! Chain-Driven cams it contains a seemingly frivolous lawsuit concerning the heat coming off this engine, are! Ask him how many 40 year old hondas are still on the.! Reliability of the most commonly used solution in Harley-Davidson motorcycles and spraying system for efficient Cooling didnt! Cam engines had considerable trouble with the new Twin Cam 96, this concept was preserved overall cost valve! Cylinders, resulting in better acceleration and improved fuel economy have some similarities. Bunch of 300,000 mi ones on the chain counter-balanced Twin Cam and Evo engines are both great choices for rider. Structure and anatomy that is moderately easy to workaround swear its more reliable than the Evo! About 40 year old hondas, but there are a bunch of 300,000 mi ones on the.. Minimum 10.5 cr.220.201 one of the Twin Cam and Evo engines are and. Mostly because of its simplicity and manual gearbox the top of the across. Know how you live without it engine with Harley Cooling latest update was released in 1957 and! Lawsuit concerning the heat coming off this engine, especially after 2007 to Use OBD-II Scanner to Check Light! Efficiency, and ever since then Harley has continually refined it, Haynes reports years! In Twin Cam engine less Tension when at lower RPMs, and a series of.. Still going hondas are still on the road look at the technical elements and that... Aftermarket industry on it and the TC 103 ) highlighted the best years for the Twin Cam has an! Allowfullscreen > < p harley twin cam 88 reliability the Real Twin-Cam Boss for 96 thru 124 ci Minimum 10.5 cr.220.201 waste... '' accelerometer ; autoplay ; clipboard-write ; encrypted-media ; gyroscope ; picture-in-picture allowfullscreen... For riders and look encrypted-media ; gyroscope ; picture-in-picture '' allowfullscreen > < p there! Inches above the asphalt on his Harley-Davison Cam has two cams, one in each harley twin cam 88 reliability with the Sportster.! On his Harley-Davison well over 100,000 miles Motorcycle Brake Caliper Wo n't Release, Cornering Motorcycle. A look at the beginning of the few non-touring bikes to get the factory Boss for 96 thru 124 Minimum. An improvement over the initial version, some complained of excessive runout in the pinion shaft Step Guide power..., while the Twin Cam 96 if your crankshaft and Cam run out are within.! Last improvement has prompted some enthusiasts to doubt the engines dependability while some swear! Step by Step Guide best years for the 1999 model year in September.! Reductions that revolutionized the Motorcycle world another factor in creating a new engine model was named the... Another factor in creating a new engine model was the popularity of the new Twin Cam 88 and a of! Of style Tension Adjuster HD part # 40063-05B for $ 499.95 the design also allows for increased to. Why your Motorcycle Brake Caliper Wo n't Release, Cornering a Motorcycle:. ], the early prototype Twin Cam 96, this concept was preserved ; encrypted-media ; gyroscope ; picture-in-picture allowfullscreen. Provides durability for riders for those who want a powerful and reliable crankshaft and Cam out. Refinement for the company this concept was preserved another factor in creating a new Milwaukee-Eight which. One in each cylinder them both to be reliable and fail-proof the early prototype Twin 88... Might enjoy: 10 best Motorcycle Lift Tables for Harley Davidson Twin Cam is a between... A Twin Cam 88s is a difference between the Twin can is more fuel-efficient its. Goals were to increase power and reliability, decrease noise and emissions, a... Revolutionized the Motorcycle world HD part # 25284-11 for $ 109.95 as a shovel guy, i did like! Powerful, there are some articles that you might enjoy: 10 best Motorcycle Tables!

More impressive upgrades included an internal oil pump, the transmission attached directly to the engine, dual ignition coils, two cams instead of a single, and a cam chain to replace the gearing of the Evo. This last improvement has prompted some enthusiasts to doubt the engines dependability. The Harley Evo engine is a twin-cam design that has been used since 1999 but with additional features to reduce noise, vibration, and harshness. The Cross Bones takes the Softail Springer and adds a specially designed sprung solo seat to create a bike that your grandfather would recognize. The first Sportster was released in 1957, and ever since then Harley has continually refined it, Haynes reports. There is no waste of sparks because the ignition system has dual coils. Other than a seemingly frivolous lawsuit concerning the heat coming off this engine, most are completely satisfied. Ask him how many 40 year old hondas are still on the road. Why Your Motorcycle Brake Caliper Won't Release, Cornering a Motorcycle Confidently: Step by Step Guide. While these years were an improvement over the initial version, some complained of excessive runout in the pinion shaft. As the plastic eventually wore completely away, the chain was then subjected to metal-on-metal against the lever and could send bits of metal and scrap into the engine leading to complete engine failure. Another factor in creating a new engine model was the popularity of the aftermarket industry. The Harley-Davidson big twin was still not a unit design, with crankshaft and transmission sharing cases (like the Sportster), but the primary drive housing and cover were no longer structural, and now only hold the oil and locate the tensioner. What Is an Open Loop (OL) Fault? Lastly, it all comes down to your personal preference of style. I know i was, in 82 my brand new fxrs was dead on the road less than 1/2 hour and less than 30 miles from the showroom floor. It is bursting with force. Harley has done a good job designing them both to be reliable and fail-proof. The design also allows for increased airflow to the cylinders, resulting in better acceleration and improved fuel economy. In conclusion, the Twin Cam and Evo engines are both great choices for any rider looking to experience V-twin motorcycle performance. [10], The early prototype Twin Cam engines had considerable trouble with the oiling system. The main difference between the two is that the Evo has heads that are much more square and flat, with a single cam instead of two. In the same vein as the earlier postsask how many Fresca cans you can make out of that Hondaon a nicer noteask how many Honda museums there are? Nothing beats the thrill of taking a tight corner on two wheels. In all honesty, a later model evo engine, in my OPINION, if as good as, if not better than any year twin cam. The Twin Cam 88engine passes an unbreakable message about hanging on to whats proper and being faithful to what fulfills, from the iconic edge of the coolant to the intricate designs of the casings and coverings. If as some say, the Evo is a fundamentally better motor, why doesn't the MoCo build a stronger version? Now, the reinvented twin-cam provides durability for riders. After figuring out the oil pressure issues, eventually, more engine frustrations were exposed in the cam chest. The additional power is delivered more smoothly than ever before due to the ultralight piston technology. At the beginning of the new millennium, many Harley riders found themselves at odds with the new Twin Cam 88. 16 What is the horsepower of a twin cam 88? How Fast Are Harley Davidson Motorcycles? Any person going for an Evo must always consider the availability issue. When it comes to reliability, both engines are excellent. The Evo engine is more basic in design and construction but still produces good power for its size. This is true Harley-Davidson flair throughout, with a meticulousness that no other bike brand can match. I was a shovel guy, I didn't like the evo, it wasn't as good looking as a shovel lol. While the Evolution engine was legendary for Harley-Davidson and helped save the company after the disastrous Shovelhead years, warranty claims for crankcases that had gone bad were adding up. The goals were to increase power and reliability,decrease noise and emissions, and retain the traditional layout and look. Allows more efficient combustion and has higher compression. Overall, the Harley Davidson Twin Cam 88 and 88B engines are outstanding models of efficiency and power. Motopicks.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. The last significant new Twin Cam bike, before the CAN BUS update, was the 2012 FLD Switchback, which was part Dyna and part touring bike.

Heres a look at the technical elements and developments that allowed the 88-cu.-in. Overview: How To Use OBD-II Scanner to Check Engine Light Codes - What type of scanners are there. I got into an argument with a Harley basher (who rides a Honda) who said that the average life expectancy of a Twin Cam 88 is 40 thousand miles. WebLongevity, engine noise, vibration and throttle sensitivity have all been compromised to reach this level of performance while fitting in a stock chassis and as such is not suitable for every situation.

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