I am 71, ride my bike every week, and I still love my 2001 TC Softail as much as the first time I rode it. After 23 years and 104,000 miles it puts a big smile on my face each time I light it up to go for a ride. I agree that the Twin Cam may be the most loved and hated engine HD ever made. BTW, I do all my own wrenching and I subscribe and watch all your videos and thank you for the content you provide. I find the information entertaining and very informative. Give your son an atta boy for me he does a nice job with the video and editing.
imho the M8 is taking that spot. maybe not "most loved" but "most hated". M8 is just a catalyst to watercooled HDs. it is the ugly brother to any watercooled engine, performance wise. and the ugly brother to all previous HD motors, because of the sewing machine sound. M8 aren't the best in ANY category. if HD upps the 1250 to 1800cc, then the performance guys will switch and the sound guys anyways never came. just compare prices of a dyna low rider s to softail low rider s on the used market. a huge fucking gap. there is only one reason for that, the motor, as the bikes are otherwise not that much different.
Coming from a 650 cc metric "cruiser" to a '04 Road King Classic, I fell in love with my TC. Got it in '20 with 5600 miles on it and she's just shy of 18k now. I love the vibration at a light and the way things smooth out as you roll the throttle. With a set of Cobra Neighbor Hater slip ons, it sounds great. Added a DynoJet Power Vision to fatten the fuel mixture and get a little more performance out of it along with a Screaming Eagle intake. It got hot on me a couple times, and I'm certain with previous owner too which caused the rocker boxes to leak. Just finished changing out the cam chain tensioners and replacing the rocker box gaskets, the old girl fired the second fuel hit the injectors! Replaced all the seals in the primary just before doing the tensioners and rocker boxes, all Cyco Gaskets thanks to your videos. Thanks for all the videos, couldn't have done it without them!
Yeah, my heritage has the Arlin Ness, big mouth, breather and screaming eagle slide on and a tune about to switch out the cam chest and cams Tenser all that stuff best thing in the sound when I get on it, you can hear that thing 10 miles away it screams and people are constantly flipping me off and yelling at me. I love it. It’s an 88 in.³ doesn’t take much to get the front wheel up off the ground. I have a 80 spokes 21 inch tire on front must add when it comes up off the ground. I’m not trying to get it to it just does it if I get a little hard down on the throttle.
Bought a TC88 with 40,000 miles. Tensioners already changed, no problems. Bought a TC103 with 60,000 miles, no problems. Bought a 97 Evo with 50,000 miles, lots and lots of problems.
I love my 2003 Dyna. I had no problems with it. I still have it and that 88 has been doing well. Only thing I did was 5 years ago had two up cam's put in with up dated cam plate ,oil pump .
Well my 2010 Steetbob got enlarged to 103 with S&S 585 easy start cams but due to the poor breathing of the heads wasn't an awful lot better than a standard 96 inch motor so I collected some parts and rebuilt it. It's now got a trued and welded crank and a reworked CVO topend on bored-out cases and bigger valves in the (ported) CVO heads so it's 113 inches with a static comp. ratio of 11.5 : 1, S&S geardrive easy start 640 cams and Ultima increased ratio rockers take valve lift up to 0.660 ", S&S TC3 oil pump and camplate, a 48mm Mikuni and (cueently) standard headers with S&S taper mufflers ( - no longer available) and a Thunderheart ignition that has no vacuum advance.... there are other things but that is most of it. Ya could say I took the EPA shit off it and simplified it to almost 'classic bike' status - it's now not subject to all the modern-day (read power-sucking) shit and sensor related problems that bikes have had thrust on them from the early 1970's and is all the better for it though the 130+ bhp and torque has meant engine mounts from Chopper Hauss are a necessity along with a second front disc (FXDF lower legs) and decent suspension mods along with Avon tyres. It's the only Big twin I have ever had, and I have a similarly enhanced 2006 XL1200R which makes 100bhp (with thanks to the guys at Hammerperf.com) that is an absolute thrill to ride - I did have a 1990 XL883 that grew to 1200 but the heads restricted the bike so much it was a waste of time and money boring it out ! My age (64) and a poor income will maybe stop me getting and sorting an M8 because the £30k+ is not justifiable when I already have two great bikes. Regards from England ! Bob
Bought my 06 Road King new opened the cam chest at 60,000 miles hardly any wear on cam chain tensioner shoes. I will check them again at 120,000 miles.
Over 70,000 miles on my 2012 103 streetglide and it's been great. Replaced everything in the can chest at 56k and put in 570-2 cyclorama cams with good exhaust and expert tuning pumps out 98.7 h.p. and 116 ftlbs of tourque. Stock top end and uses no oil in 3,000 mile oil intervals. Maybe do top end this winter.
I bought my 2005 nightrain new in Oahu, HI. She has been on rode on Guam and registered in 4 other states on the main land. Never getting rid of that ride. Always faithful.
Two '03, an '04, and an '06 twin cam. Flawless performance from all of them. Just recently heard about the tensioner drama, so I pulled the cover off my '03 to have a look - hardly ANY wear at 25k! mile
I decided to do the upgrade on my 05 88b. When I opened the cam chest the spring tensioner looked ok at first glance. But upon closer inspection I could see a lot of pitting on the shoes. And, I wonder if the heat caused by the friction makes the plastic brittle so that it breaks apart and winds up blocking your oil passages.
My 01 was inspected at 32K miles and the shoes were just starting to break up. Disaster was imminent. I changed to the Screamin' Eagle hydraulic kit, which also gives you a new and higher flow oil pump. My main gripe is that HD should have done this f.o.c. as part of a factory recall, not as an opportunity to gouge the customer extra $$$ for an "upgrade" that barely makes the grade! Apart from that, love my 01 RK!
My 01 Road King, best bike I've ever owned. Thanks again for your video on how to change the Cam chain tensioner shoes, which were replaced for the 1st time at a 100k. The outer shoes had little wear.
Bought my first TC last year (05 Roadking). Replaced the cam bearings, tensioner shoes, rocker box gaskets and oil seals. Nothing wrong with them, just a lil preventative maintenance and peace of mind. Have put several thousand miles on it so far and was able to do this myself thanks to Dave’s videos and some advice from him. With that being said, thanks for the advice and the helpful videos David! Keep em coming!!! Mike
Love the twin cam. Just got a ‘99 wide glide a couple years back (bought a new ‘98 and had to sell it 8 months later to buy a house). With the help of your videos, I’ve been hot rodding the ‘99. Bored out to 98 inches wit CP Carillo 10.75:1 pistons, ported the heads myself, had bigger valves installed, S&S 585 cams, and the Cyco shoe upgrade that you recommended. Bike has a TON more power. Ran strong before, but what a difference. Lowering the primary gearing this weekend. 😀
Thanks for the compliment. I lowered the gear in my dyna I can tell you it's gonna pull like a freight train only thing is on the interstate it will rev higher but if your not vibration sensitive you be fine.
About 2 years ago I bought my first Harley, a 2005 Electraglide. Except for the tensioner's I'm happy with the Twin Cam. I had a full cam chest upgrade done, so no more issue with that. Buying a used bike allowed me to pay less up front and then put money into correcting issues and personalizing it to my liking. I feel that I could end up spending 8-10K over the price of it and STILL be better off than buying a new Harley.
Just bought a street bob dyna '96. from 2007 (Harleys are insanely expensive here). Looking so much forward to riding that thing.. Best regards from Denmark
Had a Twin Cam 2007 Dyna and never had any engine issues for 8 years and it was ridden pretty hard, kept up with the maintenance, never engine problems !
My new to me 2001 TC 88 fat Boy puts a big smile on my face. I just know what to check every 5000 miles to keep it running right, thanks to your videos.
I can sit and stare at it for hours drinking beer LOL It is a beautiful engine you just have to maintain it it is very pretty to look at black and chrome I love it I had an old Evo Springer Softail and my wife still has a 99 Fatboy but I like the twin cam I think it is a gorgeous engine. I also had a Sportster
Once I tore into the twin cam and upgraded a few things it runs great. Only complaint I have is the amount of heat they make. Here in the desert in stop and go traffic they can start burning up. Oil coolers and fans have definitely helped.
I've own a 00 TC 88, 08 TC 96, 13 TC 103, and now a 16 TC 103 HO, and I've loved them all with zero mechanical issues with any of them. So in my experience the TC engine has been rock solid.
My 2005 Super Glide TC88 w/ SS 509 has been good to me. Replaced tensioners once with Cyco. No Regrets. Had this bike longer than ones I've had in 50 years.
Hadn't thought about it but that's the same for me, the Harleys I buy for me I keep forever. I even put it in my will that my kids can't sell the dyna when I die.
16 FLTRU with the HO 103. Not a fast bike but with the Woods 222 it is a spectacular touring bike. Maintenance schedule always followed. Except for that water pump issue, never an issue with the 103 or anything else.
I had a 01 Road king and an 02 FHSTC they both ran fine for me. I did a bunch of work on other guys twin cams that lead me to sell both mine before I had a major issue. I'll stick with my 72 FLH and 98 Evo they run great.
Got my 06 softail standard new and still have it. Not much is totally stock anymore but have kept it as close to that look as i could discipline myself to. About a year ago i upgraded the ole 88 from stage one. Went with the S&S 510c cam chest and installed a fuel map etc etc, everything after 87.000 miles was still in tolerance as well. The difference its made is like nite and day, its an outstanding upgrade. With the changes made in 2006 for the softail standard, the wider frame, the wide glide front end, the 200 series rear tire and now these newer engine upgrades ive made, im more than happy i went with the rock solid 88. The S&S chest fixed any future cam tensioner or sump problems to. Been riding for 52 years now and have had many many bikes, this ones a keeper. Be safe people, head on a swivel...ENJOY D RIDE!
Just got a 2014 Dyna Low Rider 103 ... my first Harley ... the sound and feel of the engine climbing over itself before it starts has me hooked for life ... love my twin cam !!! ... and Thanks, for what you do ...
I just sold my 2011 RK with 126,000 miles on it. Swapped cams, exhaust, breather. Never an issue, other than the starter died once, the compensator crapped out, and the electrical system fried he regulator. I'm thinking that's pretty good for 126k! One of the best HDs I've owned.
have a 2000 HD Dyna Wide Glide Carburetor, Screamin Eagle 2 Exhaust and honestly every time I fire it up and start riding it brings a smile to my face and joy to my soul. Drive carefully, but hurry slowly!
I've a '12 103 ci. Fat Bob. It has a little over 48k miles on it. It's stage one, open airbox, V&H Propipe and V&H FP3. I abuse this bike regularly. About the only problems I've had with it is the oil going into the intake. I've since rectified that by venting the blowby oil out onto the ground. I've an aluminum container I bought on Amazon that I'm going to plumb to catch those oils as they're making a bit of a mess on the underside of the bike. I did put a manual primary chain tensioner on it as well as it started kicking back sometimes during startup. Other than that, it's a real thrill ride!
I have a 2017 street bob with 33,000 miles, it is my first Harley. It has a tc 103 and even in factory form with no upgrades yet it is a very solid bike with plenty of power and is reliable. I have owned a Honda cruiser and a few sport bikes before this so I have seen first hand how some of these bikes are. All of them were good bikes and being on all different kinds of bikes, I can say that the Harley is something special. It just seems like it is a very sturdy built bike and is not lacking at all in power.
I just bought my first Harley, and it's a 1999 FXDX. I am really liking it. I bought a manual, some tools and learning how to service it myself. I bought this model because I wanted to learn. Plus, it's cheaper to learn this and get the parts than my previous Triumph bike. With its services, I could have bought 2 other bikes by now. It was stolen, so the Harley is the replacement. I am enjoying it.
I bought a '99 Lowrider FXDL TC88" specifically over an 80" Evo. Chain tensionor failed at 9000 miles. The dealer came out at midnight with the service van and a cold six pack.We loaded the bike and took it to the shop and he took me home.Called the next day and said it's ready covered under recall or warranty or something. I told him might as well make it a 95" ,raise the compression,put a 45 mm Mikuni on,add some Andrews .550 cams,roller rockers,valve springs and S.E. heads.S.E. had just come out with a 7500rpm adjustable ignition set so it was installed also. The Dealer was a national record holder for quarter mile,so I requested the rider /mechanic,Frank,do the work and tuning. I never got beat on the street and that engine is still together in the same bike.My buddy has it, I moved on to a '22 Lowrider S. I had to have a S.E. race clutch assembly installed cause I started slipping factory clutch in 4-5th topend. I loved the TC and the bike, excellent reliability under any conditions, especially high rpm hard use.👍💀
I had a 2000 FXD Superglide that I owned for about 18 years. The only problem I had with it was the cam chain tensioners that had to be replaced. My current "new-ish" twin cam is an '07 FXDB Street Bob that I've had for 7 years or so. No issues so far. I really enjoy your videos and hope you keep at it!
2011 TC 103, great engine. Bought new, performance upgraded to 255 cam, SERT, SEAC, no cat, V&H Power Duals. Then comp went out - went SE Upgraded Comp - it went out - another upgraded comp, new starter, now runs and rides like a dream. Upgrades tend to reveal weak links, then it's all good.
Iput 118,600 miles on my TC88 before selling it. Issues was fuel pump and the hassle it was to replace it,.. Never had an electrical failure and swapped tensioners out 3 times
Ordered my 2004 FXSTI January 2004. Bought and took home the FSM and the parts book. Bike arrived at the dealership April 2004. 20 years and over 75,000 miles later, it's still a great bike. I replaced the cam chain tensioners for the first time last year at 71,000 miles with spring tensioners since the originals look pretty decent considering the miles. I did the job the long way as I didn't want to go the adjustable push rods route and wanted to replace the rocker cover gaskets, o rings, filters and generally check out everything. I like my TC88 just fine.
Although I sold it, the ‘05 Dyna LowRider with the 88ci engine wasn’t a bad motor. It ran fine and at 34,000mi I decided to change out the cam chain tensioners. Upon examining the chain pads, cams, lifters, the engine could have gone another 30000mi, the wear was minimal. I put in a Screaming Eagle cam plate, with beefed up oil pump, 203 cams, exact fit SE pushrods (I took off the rocker boxes wear was almost nonexistent), flashed the FI system. Another 30,000 mil later, bike still ran great. Almost 60k and still had lots of life, so yeah, TC was a great motor. Now have a ‘17 first year M8. Have heard the horror stories; but my Ultra runs great and no sumping or other issues!!! Ride on!!!!
Well I waited almost 6 months for my 99 super glide and before I got mine the done fixed the bearing problem and I love after 10000 miles sent it to Dave Mackie and more the double the HP like all new again still ride it more then the 2011 flhtp twin cam but looking at your video didn't know harley made a police version super glide
I've had 4 twin cam, two 88ci, a 96, and a 103 ci. So far the only issue I be had was on the 96ci I had to replace the compensator. I did add oil coolers to all of them. I service them every 5k mikes and run Amsoil products and they just keep on running. My biggest complaint is the catalyst producing so much heat!
I hated my 2001 TC, the tensioner shoes, and oil out the breather issues. Then I got gear-driven cams (the whole camchest kit) and now I LOVE my TC 😆. I’ve been on both sides of the fence on this one! Thanks for the video!
I agree with you, people seem to like them or dislike them more than other engines. I’ve never had an issue with my twin cam. I did switch to gear drive cams to avoid any issues and 40k later it’s still making me smile!
I don't own a Harley-Davidson and have never ridden one. But I am interested in the technology. I have been to many trade fairs for new motorcycles and to various tuner trade fairs. I have also read a lot and have a specialist book about evolution engines and what you can do with them. Actually, every Harley engine since the beginning of the evolution engine era has been a perfect Harley. From this Evo series onwards, the manufacturer Harley has worked with the manufacturer Porsche, where certain components are developed at Porsche. It can be said that these engines from the evolution series and later are absolutely robust and can handle full throttle and also forgive the owners' misbehavior and deliberately rough handling. And now let's be honest. When is such an engine damaged? When you buy a Harley from a dealer? No. If you drive this motorcycle as it was built at the factory? Not either. If you treat your standard Harley like your best friend and use the right oil, and even visit the workshop for a coffee for a service, then the engine will last forever. The manufacturer Harley has invested a lot of money in development. This motorcycle has enough power from the factory, is not too loud for the neighbors at 3 a.m. and has the blessing of the authorities for registration. The only problem with damage is usually the owners themselves. They want to have almost twice the power as cheaply as possible and a loud exhaust system. And then they start to ruin their Harley without any specialist knowledge or much background knowledge. And for what? Usually for a piece of printed paper, where you can see the tuned engine and the rest on a dynamometer. Personally, I am not sad about these people when they have put their hands on a good Harley that they bought from a dealer for a lot of money and then get a big bill with engine damage on the test bench. Tuning is expensive and should only be done by good specialists with the parts that Harley itself offers and also approves. Do you love the Twin Cam or do you have the Twin Cam? The Twin Cam is a very good engine from Harley. That's my opinion on that.
I have owned a 92 Evo FXSTC, 01 TC 88 FLHR, 01 TC-88 Fatboy FLTF, 02 TC-88 FXSTB, and CURRENTLY own and ride my TC-88 FXDI, and 15 TC103 FLTRXS. I love the Twin Cam platform.
I've had a 2007 Dyna FXD for 7 years and love it. I did the stage 1 thing to it right away. I recently had a Feuling 543 cam and camchest kit and 2 into 1 pipes installed and love the bike even more. I never had an Evo. I went from a Shovelhead to the TC. I still have a Shovelhead. My biggest complaint about the TC is the oil capacity. It says it holds 3 quarts, but that's only if you can suck out all the oil. I only get 2 1/2 quarts in it. Gotta watch that oil level and change it often. I like that the M8 Softail Dynas hold 5 quarts of oil. I hope to get one in the near future. I'm 72 and do as much touring as I can.
Im like you i started with a shovel so there is a special place in my heart for them but I do love both of my twincam's. Like you I do alot of touring and even at the high miles on them I'm never afraid to hop on them and head cross country.
By nature I am an Evo guy. I have owned 6 and I love them. Everyone of them was modified and everyone of them leaked oil like a sieve, with vibrations so strong, parts constantly vibrated off. I have had4 TCs including my current 2002 FLHCI. I have had ZERO issues in any of them. 1999-2002 are probably my favorite TC since they still have forged cranks and Timken bearings. They are a great motor and with a few dollhairs thrown at them, make decent power. My current TC is a SE 95CI transplant and it flat gets after it. It is one of the quickest HD's I have owned. People are parrots and always repeat what they see, especially the negative stuff.
Took delivery of my '01 FXD in early March of 2001, when I was 40. Have loved every minute of riding that thing over the past 23 years. And I like that it's carbureted! I put a Mustang seat on it and a wide fork kit and Road King handlebars. Did a carb rebuild last summer so she's running smooth as silk. The only other thing I wouldn't mind having on it is a six-speed w/overdrive to lower the revs a bit on the highway.
That's why they got rid of it. Have a '79 shovel Superglide and a '23 Low Rider S 117 with cr483 cam and tbr pipe. This thing rips. Wouldn't trade it for nuthin'.
I have had my 01 softball since 2010. Rode as a two wheeler until last year when converted to a trike. It has been the most reliable motorcycle I have ever owned. It shows no signs of wearing out and I have no desire trade up.
I've had a 1999 Super Glide TC88, a 2006 Road King, TC88, a 2009 Street Glide TW 96, and 2016 Road Glide TC103HO. The only major issue I had with the TC was the compensator went out. Replaced it with a SE comp and never had another issue with. I have good experiences with the twin cams.
Hi 👋, DP P, I have had a 1200 sportster, never any problems mind you I didn’t have it very long, I then purchased in 1996/7 a 1992/93 FXR, I spent a lot of money on it, not anything going wrong, I updated cam new electronic ignition, HSR 42 Mikuni, braided cables,, et cetera, Then in I purchased a brand-new softail deuce, and yes, I fell in love with it, Something I forgot to say is that I got more back for my FXR when I traded it in then what I paid paid for it, that was a deal and a half, I had a lot of work done to my deuce big bore kit 1550, cams ignition 2-1 exhaust, , sadly in 2019 I had to sell it, as I had been scammed by my ex female partner, I decided then to move from UK to France where I now live retired, and in my 70s, and I’ve just purchased another deuce, 2003 model, sadly to say this has not been looked after very well, it has had some work done on it, but there’s no paperwork to confirm who done at work, I’ve just found out that it has had a pair of S&S cams . And it needs a new drive belt , which I am trying to my self, but need to buy some tools, and it as got a bad misfire , I had a price of having the belt replaced from HD €1600+ Vat , SO THE BIG QUESTION 🙋♂️ YES I LOVE MY DEUCE, JUST Which I can get my original one back! , Got approximately 50,000 miles on the clock, And never let me down, unlike my ex partner, Stay safe, right free ,
@@DeathProofProductions It was not as good as the Deuce, The FXR I only rode it the Uk , The sportster , hard Rock Cafe London Hard Rock Cafe in Paris, approximately 600 odd miles or just over in total, long weekend, Then, two up roughly London to Lake Garda , 17 bikes, Approximately 2000 miles, And that was heavy going, Especially as I had a blowout on the back wheel, One of my colleagues stayed with me waiting for breakdown truck on motorway, After having a new tire fitted, my colleague and I were clocking approximately 100 miles an hour trying to catch up with the rest of the group, My Deuce, that is another story, When I sold it in 2019, approximately 50,000 miles on the clock, I would say only 4 to 5000 of that was done in the UK, a brief list of where I’ve been in Europe, France, Italy, Portugal, Spain, Germany, Most of these going to the Hog European rallies, As they say, got the T-shirt , sometimes many times over, Though I done one trip with my ex partner, riding down the right hand side of France top end of Spain across to the top end of Portugal, all way down to the Algarve, then back into Spain and then into France up the right hand side, Approximately 4000 odd miles in two weeks , Been out today, not on the bike as it is in pieces , Trying to replace the reardrive belt, been out to register my bike, and found out that it has got to have an MOT/control techniques before it can be registered, so sadly I’ve got to wait until probably the middle of next month, As I am waiting for parts, that I believe has got to come from the US, Obviously, because the bike is so old, gone with the days where you could, go into a dealership and get parts of the shelf, I believe this is a bad letdown, it seems like it doesn’t matter what you require even for a modern bike the parts still have to come from the states, I hope this gives you an insight into what I’ve been doing, and where I’ve been,
Thanks for the info, this year I'm set up to ride the isle of man Scotland and Ireland for me it's a dream come true rode all 48 states and across Alaska but I'm more excited about this one. You ever been over there.
Love my 2000 Twin Cam, 56,000 trouble free miles and counting. Yes, I have fitted an S&S Cam Gear Drive and Andrews 37G cams, but that was well before all of the controversy with the chain tensioners, I just didn't like the spring tensioners on my bike. It still has the standard Harley cam chest and oil pump, that gives perfect oil pressure.
I love my 07 Fatboy TC. There was an issue with the flywheel/ crankshaft. I bought it used with 40k on the motor and they let it go home with me. I come back with a couple days left on the warrantee and they put in a short block and whole laundry list of parts. They sunk in around 55 hundred. She is running strong and true. But the dealership put it right .I kept the old one as a souvenir.
I have a 2003 100 yr anniversary softail twincam 88 B with 38k. I performed 3 hole oil and adjustment maintenance when I bought it from original owner last year. Installed hydraulic cam chain tensioner kit also. Noticed a lower end knock that may be from the balancer weight bearing. Only hear it at idle. Rod knock? Understand that some have removed the ballancer chain and weights to solve problem. What is your opinion of this. I have owned two shovel heads and Evo in the past.
Love my 03 TC Heritage Softail . It ran great but rocker boxes started to leak at 46,000 mi . only problem so far , just keep up regular maintenance . Thank you for you videos .
Same here ; 2003 softail standard. Cams and 95 inch now . Had it 20 years now . Solid as old tractor . Still love my shovelhead too . It’s chopped - ✊🏻👍👌
Only harleys iv had were twin cams im not very mechanically inclined i do my own oils tighten a few things that come loose is about it. My 2016 electra glide runs great i bought with 2k on it in 2021 and have done alot of things to it suspension bars pipe tune etc it now has 18k. I love this bike very sentimental now once the house is paid off ill have a wood 222 cam done with oil pump and cam plate and i should be HOPEFULLY done with upgrades.
I've had a few Twin cams over the years. Current is an 05 FLSTSCI. I changed the cam bearings and cam chains and tensioners and cams. Love the bike. This is my last bike as I am youthfully challenged. Keep up the great videos.
I put 90,000 miles on an '04 Heritage with zero engine issues. I did upgrade to SE 204 cams at 46,000 miles so got new tensioners then. Zero engine issues though. And I rode that 88" hard, very hard. I think the power potential from a Twin Cam is far more than from an Evo. Part of that is the increase in cubic inches obviously but the heads and cam options really raised the bar. The only drawback on the Twin Cams in my opinion is the seemingly inevitable valve train noise.
I've got a 2000 Fat Boy that I really enjoy. Not fast, but its taken me all over the eastern U.S. without much drama. Trickiest part is I'm a carb tuning novice, and mine's giving me a little bit of hesitation just off idle. Otherwise, I love the bike. Comfy and chill ride, all the way.
Love my 96” in my Heritage. At stage 2 right now. May or may not go further on the performance but, Twin Cams might also be the most workable engine they’ve ever made with the biggest selection of aftermarket upgrades. Only complaint is the heat it throws off which, is a lot.
Got two TC Dyna 88 and Electra 103 love them both... easy to work on and reliable. Milwaukee 8 also have their problems in early production... all engines will ....
Recently picked up a 2000 Road King with just 13k miles. I’ve been riding it almost everyday and love it. Far too soon to tell, but hopefully it’s as reliable as my old Evo has been.
Started out with a 75 sportster 40 years ago then to a 1980 shovelhead then to a brand new 92 Heritage evo and now a 2005 Softail Springer Classic. Changed the tensioners last year with the help of your video. i have had no issues with the 88 and it is bone stock.
I inherited my late father's 2005 Ultra Classic with an 88 Twin Cam and 20k miles. Other than doing the tensioner shoes(thanks to you and Cyco Gaskets), cobbling together a new oil pump, and updating the umbrella valves in the rocker boxes I haven't touched it. I also haven't gone down the rabbit hole and started modifying the shit out of it. I just ride it and it runs just fine.
Good to see you on here again Dave. I’ve had a shovel head and I had to work on it a lot. It sounded righteous though. My first twin cam was a 99 Electra Glide standard and I liked that bike a lot plus it still sounded good but not as good as the shovel. I had several twin cams after that one till the M8 came out now that bike sounds like shit even with the big cam I put into it when I bumped it up to 131. As you know I just bought a 2003 screamin eagle deuce last spring with 2400 miles on it. Except for the idle problem when it’s cold I absolutely love that bike. I changed the exhaust and redone the air cleaner so it could breath as well as got rid of the venting into the cylinders. I tuned it and I can’t believe how quick it is with SE 203 cams. Plus it sounds so good. I guess you can figure out which is my favorite. Take care my friend!
I’m a TC guy all day every day. Iv owned 6 of them. Two 07s three 12s an a 15. Never been stranded or had any failures hoping around town or on long trips. My current hide is a 2012 EGC 103 (my favorite 103) got it with 24k did a stage 2 an put 12k on it in a yr an love every minute of riding it. With the stage 2 it smokes my boys 21 114 stage 1 SG. Only down fall to me about the TC is the heat but I found with a tank lift it helps keep it cooler. Buts it’s a Harley it’s goin to be hot lol
I’ve had my TC88 for 20yrs, 170,000 Kay’s later,( that’s Aussie for kilometres) apart from cam problems I would not change motor for all the tea in China !
I have an 04 tc88. I’ve changed tensioners, inner cam bearings, upgraded oil pump. Runs great. At times it’s a little underpowered but nothing that can’t be upgraded.
I think the thing with TC was the NASA engineering to put two cams and oil pump inside the engine (when Evo had a way simpler synchro and an external and reliable pump) - not to mention the Softail counterbalance system. And, of course, electronic fuel injection option. A lot of innovation at once.
Iv bought a new 2003 Duece back in the day, has the twin cam 88. Never had any issues to this day. Not even a drop of oil has leaked. I currently have 80,000km & I’m thinking to replace the cam tensioners & upgrade to the screaming eagle hydraulic. Love this bike ❤
My tc88 fxdx 2000 has a runout on the pinion 0,001. With 50k Miles on it. Followed David advice and put the Cyco shoes on the spring tensioners. The inner one was still in good shape. The cam chest has seen the daylight first time after 25 years, the camplate had still both ball bearings pressed, they were fine too. I have replaced some of the parts since 25 years have passed and developed an uderstanding and a relationship to this machine at the same time. I took the engine apart and rebuild it with a professional support from my local engine builder. Runs great and is an eye catcher. None of it would have been possible without David‘s support and mentoring. I will keep this bike forever.
Thanks for the compliment. I forgot yours was a 2000 I was thinking it was a 99 like mine when I said they were shipped out together. I guess I should have gone back and looked. Glade to see you enjoying it, you been getting to ride her much.
Yeah that makes since they always put the black dynas out first typically in Sep to October before the model year. Mine's a 99 but I got it in September of 98 and yours is the next year. That explains why the decal is the same as mine.
I had and rode a '55 Panhead and a '68 generator Shovelhead for many years when the Evo came out and the 'Instant (credit-card) Biker' craze was born. I was firmly in the "Hear No Evo, See No Evo, Ride No Evo" camp. When the Twin Cam or "Twinkie" came out, and I saw how it was put together 😳, I went out and bought my first Evo, a '97 FLHPi! Still riding all 3!
I have a Twin cam. 2012 SG 103 I love it. I had a shovelhead in the past and a buell. XB12TT. The 103 pulls like the buell. Pulls much hard then my 80 Cid shovel
There's a lot of bike owners like me gen x that all they ever had was a twin cam. Not old enough to have the older engines and not rich enough to have a newer one. 60k miles now and the only work I've had done is a new stator.
I've owned and rode all of them from the knucklehead up and I can tell you that they have there issues. People should remember there all just a evolution of the one before it.
I have the 88 in.³ 2006 model it’s got just under 16,000 miles right now. I’ve bought the fueling kit to switch out the template pump. The whole works my center. Still looks fine but I’m not gonna wait. Gonna rebuild the compensator next and the clutch basket if it’s needed motorcycle runs real good but have had some issues with compensator noise periodically don’t know if it’s getting ready to fail, but I’m replaced that I’ve had with the bike is the heat that thing cooks my eggs every time I ride unless it’s a cold day and then it’s just wonderful. The bike runs really good and cool weather Struggles a little bit and noise when it’s a warm or hot day above 80° if I was gonna say anything about the twin camas, I wish I could just swap over to the 103 but finances being what they are in the economy, being what it is, I’m just choosing to upgrade components, that are wear items It’s my sincere belief that Harley should come out with oil coolers on these things along time ago, but they were more worried about cosmetics that’s about it. My bike is bad ass. It’s a FLSTCI EFI
Reread what I wrote last night well, I didn’t write it. I used diction on Apple iPhone. I’ve got to quit doing that when I reread what I had written there was a lot of spots that made no sense and I don’t know how the words get switched the way they do sorry about that, I think it still is understandable, but gotta get used to my fat fingers typing
I am 71, ride my bike every week, and I still love my 2001 TC Softail as much as the first time I rode it. After 23 years and 104,000 miles it puts a big smile on my face each time I light it up to go for a ride. I agree that the Twin Cam may be the most loved and hated engine HD ever made. BTW, I do all my own wrenching and I subscribe and watch all your videos and thank you for the content you provide. I find the information entertaining and very informative. Give your son an atta boy for me he does a nice job with the video and editing.
Thanks he will appreciated it.
imho the M8 is taking that spot. maybe not "most loved" but "most hated".
M8 is just a catalyst to watercooled HDs. it is the ugly brother to any watercooled engine, performance wise.
and the ugly brother to all previous HD motors, because of the sewing machine sound.
M8 aren't the best in ANY category. if HD upps the 1250 to 1800cc, then the performance guys will switch and the sound guys anyways never came.
just compare prices of a dyna low rider s to softail low rider s on the used market. a huge fucking gap. there is only one reason for that, the motor, as the bikes are otherwise not that much different.
Original owner 2001 TC 88.
Followed your video on tensioner replacement.
You even answered a technical question. Still riding it no problems.
Coming from a 650 cc metric "cruiser" to a '04 Road King Classic, I fell in love with my TC. Got it in '20 with 5600 miles on it and she's just shy of 18k now. I love the vibration at a light and the way things smooth out as you roll the throttle. With a set of Cobra Neighbor Hater slip ons, it sounds great. Added a DynoJet Power Vision to fatten the fuel mixture and get a little more performance out of it along with a Screaming Eagle intake. It got hot on me a couple times, and I'm certain with previous owner too which caused the rocker boxes to leak. Just finished changing out the cam chain tensioners and replacing the rocker box gaskets, the old girl fired the second fuel hit the injectors! Replaced all the seals in the primary just before doing the tensioners and rocker boxes, all Cyco Gaskets thanks to your videos. Thanks for all the videos, couldn't have done it without them!
Yeah, my heritage has the Arlin Ness, big mouth, breather and screaming eagle slide on and a tune about to switch out the cam chest and cams Tenser all that stuff best thing in the sound when I get on it, you can hear that thing 10 miles away it screams and people are constantly flipping me off and yelling at me. I love it. It’s an 88 in.³ doesn’t take much to get the front wheel up off the ground. I have a 80 spokes 21 inch tire on front must add when it comes up off the ground. I’m not trying to get it to it just does it if I get a little hard down on the throttle.
It's funny you say that because the shaking at idle on the dyna was what made me want one. Thanks for the compliment
Bought a TC88 with 40,000 miles. Tensioners already changed, no problems. Bought a TC103 with 60,000 miles, no problems. Bought a 97 Evo with 50,000 miles, lots and lots of problems.
I love my 2003 Dyna. I had no problems with it. I still have it and that 88 has been doing well. Only thing I did was 5 years ago had two up cam's put in with up dated cam plate ,oil pump .
Absolutely love my 2002 softail standard. Has great power and torque, and been absolutely reliable 😎
Well my 2010 Steetbob got enlarged to 103 with S&S 585 easy start cams but due to the poor breathing of the heads wasn't an awful lot better than a standard 96 inch motor so I collected some parts and rebuilt it.
It's now got a trued and welded crank and a reworked CVO topend on bored-out cases and bigger valves in the (ported) CVO heads so it's 113 inches with a static comp. ratio of 11.5 : 1, S&S geardrive easy start 640 cams and Ultima increased ratio rockers take valve lift up to 0.660 ", S&S TC3 oil pump and camplate, a 48mm Mikuni and (cueently) standard headers with S&S taper mufflers ( - no longer available) and a Thunderheart ignition that has no vacuum advance.... there are other things but that is most of it.
Ya could say I took the EPA shit off it and simplified it to almost 'classic bike' status - it's now not subject to all the modern-day (read power-sucking) shit and sensor related problems that bikes have had thrust on them from the early 1970's and is all the better for it though the 130+ bhp and torque has meant engine mounts from Chopper Hauss are a necessity along with a second front disc (FXDF lower legs) and decent suspension mods along with Avon tyres.
It's the only Big twin I have ever had, and I have a similarly enhanced 2006 XL1200R which makes 100bhp (with thanks to the guys at Hammerperf.com) that is an absolute thrill to ride - I did have a 1990 XL883 that grew to 1200 but the heads restricted the bike so much it was a waste of time and money boring it out !
My age (64) and a poor income will maybe stop me getting and sorting an M8 because the £30k+ is not justifiable when I already have two great bikes.
Regards from England !
Bob
‘06 Road King Classic - Ordered new from the factory. Still rides strong. No problems. Easily keeps up with the new bikes.
Loved my 2011 dyna Twin Cam. Put 70K miles without any issues.
Bought my 06 Road King new opened the cam chest at 60,000 miles hardly any wear on cam chain tensioner shoes. I will check them again at 120,000 miles.
One of the best engines made love the twin cam 103 Breakout
I got a 2010 harley dyna FXDC. Twin cam 96". I'd never go back but I'd never go newer either. 👍
Over 70,000 miles on my 2012 103 streetglide and it's been great. Replaced everything in the can chest at 56k and put in 570-2 cyclorama cams with good exhaust and expert tuning pumps out 98.7 h.p. and 116 ftlbs of tourque. Stock top end and uses no oil in 3,000 mile oil intervals. Maybe do top end this winter.
I had a twin cam Harley for 11 years on a Road King, I had no problems with it.
I started with an Ironhead then two Evos and now a Twin Cam 103, I like all of them.
That's me I love every one they ever made, wish I could own them all.
I bought my 2005 nightrain new in Oahu, HI. She has been on rode on Guam and registered in 4 other states on the main land. Never getting rid of that ride. Always faithful.
671 !!!
Two '03, an '04, and an '06 twin cam. Flawless performance from all of them. Just recently heard about the tensioner drama, so I pulled the cover off my '03 to have a look - hardly ANY wear at 25k! mile
I had very little wear on my 99 at 36.000 but I still recommend checking them ever 10k
Yeah if you were looking at my bike 26k would say the same thing…..and then you hit 30k lol. It will happen.
right
I decided to do the upgrade on my 05 88b. When I opened the cam chest the spring tensioner looked ok at first glance. But upon closer inspection I could see a lot of pitting on the shoes.
And, I wonder if the heat caused by the friction makes the plastic brittle so that it breaks apart and winds up blocking your oil passages.
My 01 was inspected at 32K miles and the shoes were just starting to break up. Disaster was imminent. I changed to the Screamin' Eagle hydraulic kit, which also gives you a new and higher flow oil pump. My main gripe is that HD should have done this f.o.c. as part of a factory recall, not as an opportunity to gouge the customer extra $$$ for an "upgrade" that barely makes the grade! Apart from that, love my 01 RK!
My 01 Road King, best bike I've ever owned. Thanks again for your video on how to change the Cam chain tensioner shoes, which were replaced for the 1st time at a 100k. The outer shoes had little wear.
Im glade it helped, to bee honest when I put the first set of cams in my dyna it's shoes were fine.
2002 softail standard and 2001 roadking classic touring . Replaced tensioners myself . Other than that I love em both .
I never had any issues with my 07 Dyna twin cam. I don't expect to either.
Bought my first TC last year (05 Roadking). Replaced the cam bearings, tensioner shoes, rocker box gaskets and oil seals. Nothing wrong with them, just a lil preventative maintenance and peace of mind. Have put several thousand miles on it so far and was able to do this myself thanks to Dave’s videos and some advice from him. With that being said, thanks for the advice and the helpful videos David! Keep em coming!!!
Mike
Thanks for the compliment
Love the twin cam.
Just got a ‘99 wide glide a couple years back (bought a new ‘98 and had to sell it 8 months later to buy a house).
With the help of your videos, I’ve been hot rodding the ‘99.
Bored out to 98 inches wit CP Carillo 10.75:1 pistons, ported the heads myself, had bigger valves installed, S&S 585 cams, and the Cyco shoe upgrade that you recommended.
Bike has a TON more power. Ran strong before, but what a difference.
Lowering the primary gearing this weekend. 😀
Thanks for the compliment. I lowered the gear in my dyna I can tell you it's gonna pull like a freight train only thing is on the interstate it will rev higher but if your not vibration sensitive you be fine.
About 2 years ago I bought my first Harley, a 2005 Electraglide. Except for the tensioner's I'm happy with the Twin Cam. I had a full cam chest upgrade done, so no more issue with that. Buying a used bike allowed me to pay less up front and then put money into correcting issues and personalizing it to my liking. I feel that I could end up spending 8-10K over the price of it and STILL be better off than buying a new Harley.
Just bought a street bob dyna '96. from 2007 (Harleys are insanely expensive here). Looking so much forward to riding that thing.. Best regards from Denmark
Had a Twin Cam 2007 Dyna and never had any engine issues for 8 years and it was ridden pretty hard, kept up with the maintenance, never engine problems !
Absolutely
My new to me 2001 TC 88 fat Boy puts a big smile on my face. I just know what to check every 5000 miles to keep it running right, thanks to your videos.
Thanks for the compliment
Had a 09 electa glide with a 96" and loved it. When i bought my Lowrider I knew i wanted one with a 96". No problems with either.
I can sit and stare at it for hours drinking beer LOL It is a beautiful engine you just have to maintain it it is very pretty to look at black and chrome I love it I had an old Evo Springer Softail and my wife still has a 99 Fatboy but I like the twin cam I think it is a gorgeous engine. I also had a Sportster
Me to.
Once I tore into the twin cam and upgraded a few things it runs great. Only complaint I have is the amount of heat they make. Here in the desert in stop and go traffic they can start burning up. Oil coolers and fans have definitely helped.
Great point!
A lot of power but alooooot of heat
I've own a 00 TC 88, 08 TC 96, 13 TC 103, and now a 16 TC 103 HO, and I've loved them all with zero mechanical issues with any of them. So in my experience the TC engine has been rock solid.
My 2005 Twin Cam 88 at 47K is pure music to my ears. Still loving it !!!!
Hell yeah
My 2005 Super Glide TC88 w/ SS 509 has been good to me. Replaced tensioners once with Cyco. No Regrets. Had this bike longer than ones I've had in 50 years.
Hadn't thought about it but that's the same for me, the Harleys I buy for me I keep forever. I even put it in my will that my kids can't sell the dyna when I die.
@@DeathProofProductions Just wanted to add I enjoy your channel. Ride safe.
I’m 70,k into my 2007, ( first year late model) and have full intention on going strong to 100 k. It’s made a believer outta me
I suspect you will get more than 100k, I've seen them get close to 200k with no problems. I'm like you they made a believer out of me as well.
I have had a 88ci, 95ci, 96ci, and a 103ci. Luv them all! With the acception of the tensioner, great motors!
16 FLTRU with the HO 103. Not a fast bike but with the Woods 222 it is a spectacular touring bike.
Maintenance schedule always followed. Except for that water pump issue, never an issue with the 103 or anything else.
I had a 01 Road king and an 02 FHSTC they both ran fine for me. I did a bunch of work on other guys twin cams that lead me to sell both mine before I had a major issue. I'll stick with my 72 FLH and 98 Evo they run great.
my 2005 twin cam 88b puts a smile on my face ....
Hell yeah, my 04 heritage does that to me to.
Got my 06 softail standard new and still have it. Not much is totally stock anymore but have kept it as close to that look as i could discipline myself to. About a year ago i upgraded the ole 88 from stage one. Went with the S&S 510c cam chest and installed a fuel map etc etc, everything after 87.000 miles was still in tolerance as well. The difference its made is like nite and day, its an outstanding upgrade. With the changes made in 2006 for the softail standard, the wider frame, the wide glide front end, the 200 series rear tire and now these newer engine upgrades ive made, im more than happy i went with the rock solid 88. The S&S chest fixed any future cam tensioner or sump problems to. Been riding for 52 years now and have had many many bikes, this ones a keeper. Be safe people, head on a swivel...ENJOY D RIDE!
Just got a 2014 Dyna Low Rider 103 ... my first Harley ... the sound and feel of the engine climbing over itself before it starts has me hooked for life ... love my twin cam !!! ... and Thanks, for what you do ...
Thanks for the compliment
I just sold my 2011 RK with 126,000 miles on it. Swapped cams, exhaust, breather. Never an issue, other than the starter died once, the compensator crapped out, and the electrical system fried he regulator. I'm thinking that's pretty good for 126k! One of the best HDs I've owned.
That's about normal for any bike with that many miles. I'm like you both my twincam's have over 100k with no major problems.
have a 2000 HD Dyna Wide Glide Carburetor, Screamin Eagle 2 Exhaust and honestly every time I fire it up and start riding it brings a smile to my face and joy to my soul. Drive carefully, but hurry slowly!
I feel the same as you.
I've a '12 103 ci. Fat Bob. It has a little over 48k miles on it. It's stage one, open airbox, V&H Propipe and V&H FP3. I abuse this bike regularly. About the only problems I've had with it is the oil going into the intake. I've since rectified that by venting the blowby oil out onto the ground. I've an aluminum container I bought on Amazon that I'm going to plumb to catch those oils as they're making a bit of a mess on the underside of the bike. I did put a manual primary chain tensioner on it as well as it started kicking back sometimes during startup. Other than that, it's a real thrill ride!
I have a 2017 street bob with 33,000 miles, it is my first Harley. It has a tc 103 and even in factory form with no upgrades yet it is a very solid bike with plenty of power and is reliable. I have owned a Honda cruiser and a few sport bikes before this so I have seen first hand how some of these bikes are. All of them were good bikes and being on all different kinds of bikes, I can say that the Harley is something special. It just seems like it is a very sturdy built bike and is not lacking at all in power.
I couldn't agree more, I've had all kinds of bikes from Norton's to Suzuki but I never tattooed one of there logos on me but I did the Harley logo.
I just bought my first Harley, and it's a 1999 FXDX. I am really liking it. I bought a manual, some tools and learning how to service it myself. I bought this model because I wanted to learn. Plus, it's cheaper to learn this and get the parts than my previous Triumph bike. With its services, I could have bought 2 other bikes by now. It was stolen, so the Harley is the replacement. I am enjoying it.
I bought a '99 Lowrider FXDL TC88" specifically over an 80" Evo. Chain tensionor failed at 9000 miles. The dealer came out at midnight with the service van and a cold six pack.We loaded the bike and took it to the shop and he took me home.Called the next day and said it's ready covered under recall or warranty or something. I told him might as well make it a 95" ,raise the compression,put a 45 mm Mikuni on,add some Andrews .550 cams,roller rockers,valve springs and S.E. heads.S.E. had just come out with a 7500rpm adjustable ignition set so it was installed also. The Dealer was a national record holder for quarter mile,so I requested the rider /mechanic,Frank,do the work and tuning. I never got beat on the street and that engine is still together in the same bike.My buddy has it, I moved on to a '22 Lowrider S. I had to have a S.E. race clutch assembly installed cause I started slipping factory clutch in 4-5th topend. I loved the TC and the bike, excellent reliability under any conditions, especially high rpm hard use.👍💀
yeah right, then you woke up
I had a 2000 FXD Superglide that I owned for about 18 years. The only problem I had with it was the cam chain tensioners that had to be replaced. My current "new-ish" twin cam is an '07 FXDB Street Bob that I've had for 7 years or so. No issues so far.
I really enjoy your videos and hope you keep at it!
Thanks for the compliment
2011 TC 103, great engine. Bought new, performance upgraded to 255 cam, SERT, SEAC, no cat, V&H Power Duals. Then comp went out - went SE Upgraded Comp - it went out - another upgraded comp, new starter, now runs and rides like a dream. Upgrades tend to reveal weak links, then it's all good.
Right folks have to remember its a machine thats engineered by som guy's. There not perfect.
Iput 118,600 miles on my TC88 before selling it. Issues was fuel pump and the hassle it was to replace it,.. Never had an electrical failure and swapped tensioners out 3 times
Ordered my 2004 FXSTI January 2004. Bought and took home the FSM and the parts book. Bike arrived at the dealership April 2004. 20 years and over 75,000 miles later, it's still a great bike. I replaced the cam chain tensioners for the first time last year at 71,000 miles with spring tensioners since the originals look pretty decent considering the miles. I did the job the long way as I didn't want to go the adjustable push rods route and wanted to replace the rocker cover gaskets, o rings, filters and generally check out everything. I like my TC88 just fine.
I love the twin cam, I bought a TC 103b over 10 years ago and it's never let me down once. I can't say the same for my other bikes and cars.
Couldn't agree more!
Although I sold it, the ‘05 Dyna LowRider with the 88ci engine wasn’t a bad motor. It ran fine and at 34,000mi I decided to change out the cam chain tensioners. Upon examining the chain pads, cams, lifters, the engine could have gone another 30000mi, the wear was minimal. I put in a Screaming Eagle cam plate, with beefed up oil pump, 203 cams, exact fit SE pushrods (I took off the rocker boxes wear was almost nonexistent), flashed the FI system. Another 30,000 mil later, bike still ran great. Almost 60k and still had lots of life, so yeah, TC was a great motor. Now have a ‘17 first year M8. Have heard the horror stories; but my Ultra runs great and no sumping or other issues!!! Ride on!!!!
Well I waited almost 6 months for my 99 super glide and before I got mine the done fixed the bearing problem and I love after 10000 miles sent it to Dave Mackie and more the double the HP like all new again still ride it more then the 2011 flhtp twin cam but looking at your video didn't know harley made a police version super glide
They didn't some buddies dared me to steal it off a police bike when we were leaving a bar in Memphis ,that bet paid for all my beer that night.
I've had 4 twin cam, two 88ci, a 96, and a 103 ci. So far the only issue I be had was on the 96ci I had to replace the compensator. I did add oil coolers to all of them. I service them every 5k mikes and run Amsoil products and they just keep on running. My biggest complaint is the catalyst producing so much heat!
I agree
I hated my 2001 TC, the tensioner shoes, and oil out the breather issues. Then I got gear-driven cams (the whole camchest kit) and now I LOVE my TC 😆. I’ve been on both sides of the fence on this one!
Thanks for the video!
You're welcome.
I agree with you, people seem to like them or dislike them more than other engines. I’ve never had an issue with my twin cam. I did switch to gear drive cams to avoid any issues and 40k later it’s still making me smile!
I don't own a Harley-Davidson and have never ridden one. But I am interested in the technology. I have been to many trade fairs for new motorcycles and to various tuner trade fairs. I have also read a lot and have a specialist book about evolution engines and what you can do with them. Actually, every Harley engine since the beginning of the evolution engine era has been a perfect Harley. From this Evo series onwards, the manufacturer Harley has worked with the manufacturer Porsche, where certain components are developed at Porsche. It can be said that these engines from the evolution series and later are absolutely robust and can handle full throttle and also forgive the owners' misbehavior and deliberately rough handling. And now let's be honest. When is such an engine damaged? When you buy a Harley from a dealer? No. If you drive this motorcycle as it was built at the factory? Not either. If you treat your standard Harley like your best friend and use the right oil, and even visit the workshop for a coffee for a service, then the engine will last forever. The manufacturer Harley has invested a lot of money in development. This motorcycle has enough power from the factory, is not too loud for the neighbors at 3 a.m. and has the blessing of the authorities for registration. The only problem with damage is usually the owners themselves. They want to have almost twice the power as cheaply as possible and a loud exhaust system. And then they start to ruin their Harley without any specialist knowledge or much background knowledge. And for what? Usually for a piece of printed paper, where you can see the tuned engine and the rest on a dynamometer. Personally, I am not sad about these people when they have put their hands on a good Harley that they bought from a dealer for a lot of money and then get a big bill with engine damage on the test bench. Tuning is expensive and should only be done by good specialists with the parts that Harley itself offers and also approves. Do you love the Twin Cam or do you have the Twin Cam? The Twin Cam is a very good engine from Harley. That's my opinion on that.
I have owned a 92 Evo FXSTC, 01 TC 88 FLHR, 01 TC-88 Fatboy FLTF, 02 TC-88 FXSTB, and CURRENTLY own and ride my TC-88 FXDI, and 15 TC103 FLTRXS. I love the Twin Cam platform.
I've had a 2007 Dyna FXD for 7 years and love it. I did the stage 1 thing to it right away. I recently had a Feuling 543 cam and camchest kit and 2 into 1 pipes installed and love the bike even more. I never had an Evo. I went from a Shovelhead to the TC. I still have a Shovelhead. My biggest complaint about the TC is the oil capacity. It says it holds 3 quarts, but that's only if you can suck out all the oil. I only get 2 1/2 quarts in it. Gotta watch that oil level and change it often. I like that the M8 Softail Dynas hold 5 quarts of oil. I hope to get one in the near future. I'm 72 and do as much touring as I can.
Im like you i started with a shovel so there is a special place in my heart for them but I do love both of my twincam's. Like you I do alot of touring and even at the high miles on them I'm never afraid to hop on them and head cross country.
By nature I am an Evo guy. I have owned 6 and I love them. Everyone of them was modified and everyone of them leaked oil like a sieve, with vibrations so strong, parts constantly vibrated off. I have had4 TCs including my current 2002 FLHCI. I have had ZERO issues in any of them. 1999-2002 are probably my favorite TC since they still have forged cranks and Timken bearings. They are a great motor and with a few dollhairs thrown at them, make decent power. My current TC is a SE 95CI transplant and it flat gets after it. It is one of the quickest HD's I have owned. People are parrots and always repeat what they see, especially the negative stuff.
Took delivery of my '01 FXD in early March of 2001, when I was 40. Have loved every minute of riding that thing over the past 23 years. And I like that it's carbureted! I put a Mustang seat on it and a wide fork kit and Road King handlebars. Did a carb rebuild last summer so she's running smooth as silk. The only other thing I wouldn't mind having on it is a six-speed w/overdrive to lower the revs a bit on the highway.
I feel the same, mine is like one of my kid's.
Love em.
Twin cam is the last true harley engine! 😂😅
That's why they got rid of it. Have a '79 shovel Superglide and a '23 Low Rider S 117 with cr483 cam and tbr pipe. This thing rips. Wouldn't trade it for nuthin'.
I have had my 01 softball since 2010. Rode as a two wheeler until last year when converted to a trike. It has been the most reliable motorcycle I have ever owned. It shows no signs of wearing out and I have no desire trade up.
I've had a 1999 Super Glide TC88, a 2006 Road King, TC88, a 2009 Street Glide TW 96, and 2016 Road Glide TC103HO. The only major issue I had with the TC was the compensator went out. Replaced it with a SE comp and never had another issue with. I have good experiences with the twin cams.
Right on.
I've had my tc for 22 years with a 1550 kit since day one never had a problem. 02 softail
Hi 👋, DP P, I have had a 1200 sportster, never any problems mind you I didn’t have it very long, I then purchased in 1996/7 a 1992/93 FXR, I spent a lot of money on it, not anything going wrong, I updated cam new electronic ignition, HSR 42 Mikuni, braided cables,, et cetera,
Then in I purchased a brand-new softail deuce, and yes, I fell in love with it, Something I forgot to say is that I got more back for my FXR when I traded it in then what I paid paid for it, that was a deal and a half, I had a lot of work done to my deuce big bore kit 1550, cams ignition 2-1 exhaust, , sadly in 2019 I had to sell it, as I had been scammed by my ex female partner, I decided then to move from UK to France where I now live retired, and in my 70s, and I’ve just purchased another deuce, 2003 model, sadly to say this has not been looked after very well, it has had some work done on it, but there’s no paperwork to confirm who done at work, I’ve just found out that it has had a pair of S&S cams .
And it needs a new drive belt , which I am trying to my self, but need to buy some tools, and it as got a bad misfire ,
I had a price of having the belt replaced from HD €1600+ Vat , SO THE BIG QUESTION 🙋♂️ YES I LOVE MY DEUCE,
JUST Which I can get my original one back! , Got approximately 50,000 miles on the clock, And never let me down, unlike my ex partner,
Stay safe, right free ,
How did you like riding the fxr.
@@DeathProofProductions It was not as good as the Deuce, The FXR I only rode it the Uk , The sportster , hard Rock Cafe London Hard Rock Cafe in Paris, approximately 600 odd miles or just over in total, long weekend,
Then, two up roughly London to Lake Garda , 17 bikes, Approximately 2000 miles, And that was heavy going, Especially as I had a blowout on the back wheel, One of my colleagues stayed with me waiting for breakdown truck on motorway, After having a new tire fitted, my colleague and I were clocking approximately 100 miles an hour trying to catch up with the rest of the group,
My Deuce, that is another story, When I sold it in 2019, approximately 50,000 miles on the clock, I would say only 4 to 5000 of that was done in the UK, a brief list of where I’ve been in Europe, France, Italy, Portugal, Spain, Germany, Most of these going to the Hog European rallies,
As they say, got the T-shirt , sometimes many times over, Though I done one trip with my ex partner, riding down the right hand side of France top end of Spain across to the top end of Portugal, all way down to the Algarve, then back into Spain and then into France up the right hand side,
Approximately 4000 odd miles in two weeks ,
Been out today, not on the bike as it is in pieces , Trying to replace the reardrive belt, been out to register my bike, and found out that it has got to have an MOT/control techniques before it can be registered, so sadly I’ve got to wait until probably the middle of next month, As I am waiting for parts, that I believe has got to come from the US, Obviously, because the bike is so old, gone with the days where you could, go into a dealership and get parts of the shelf, I believe this is a bad letdown, it seems like it doesn’t matter what you require even for a modern bike the parts still have to come from the states, I hope this gives you an insight into what I’ve been doing, and where I’ve been,
Thanks for the info, this year I'm set up to ride the isle of man Scotland and Ireland for me it's a dream come true rode all 48 states and across Alaska but I'm more excited about this one. You ever been over there.
Love my 2000 Twin Cam, 56,000 trouble free miles and counting.
Yes, I have fitted an S&S Cam Gear Drive and Andrews 37G cams, but that was well before all of the controversy with the chain tensioners, I just didn't like the spring tensioners on my bike.
It still has the standard Harley cam chest and oil pump, that gives perfect oil pressure.
I love my 07 Fatboy TC. There was an issue with the flywheel/ crankshaft. I bought it used with 40k on the motor and they let it go home with me. I come back with a couple days left on the warrantee and they put in a short block and whole laundry list of parts. They sunk in around 55 hundred. She is running strong and true. But the dealership put it right .I kept the old one as a souvenir.
Glad they made it right.
Brother, I love my twincam! 07' 96" heritage softail! I ride her hard and she's always been there for me!
i have the 2015 cvo 110 twin cam it gets its oil changed and a yearly tune up has 40 000km on it and runs like a champ no issues
I have a 2003 100 yr anniversary softail twincam 88 B with 38k. I performed 3 hole oil and adjustment maintenance when I bought it from original owner last year. Installed hydraulic cam chain tensioner kit also. Noticed a lower end knock that may be from the balancer weight bearing. Only hear it at idle. Rod knock? Understand that some have removed the ballancer chain and weights to solve problem. What is your opinion of this. I have owned two shovel heads and Evo in the past.
Can you send me a a vid were I can hear it my email is davethom2004flstc@gmail.com
Love my 03 TC Heritage Softail . It ran great but rocker boxes started to leak at 46,000 mi . only problem so far , just keep up regular maintenance . Thank you for you videos .
Thanks for the compliment means alot to know your work is appreciated
Same here ; 2003 softail standard. Cams and 95 inch now . Had it 20 years now . Solid as old tractor . Still love my shovelhead too .
It’s chopped - ✊🏻👍👌
I'm with you love my shovels and my pans, what the hell I love all my Harleys.
Only harleys iv had were twin cams im not very mechanically inclined i do my own oils tighten a few things that come loose is about it. My 2016 electra glide runs great i bought with 2k on it in 2021 and have done alot of things to it suspension bars pipe tune etc it now has 18k. I love this bike very sentimental now once the house is paid off ill have a wood 222 cam done with oil pump and cam plate and i should be HOPEFULLY done with upgrades.
I've had a few Twin cams over the years. Current is an 05 FLSTSCI. I changed the cam bearings and cam chains and tensioners and cams. Love the bike. This is my last bike as I am youthfully challenged. Keep up the great videos.
Thanks. Good to know your work is appreciated
I put 90,000 miles on an '04 Heritage with zero engine issues. I did upgrade to SE 204 cams at 46,000 miles so got new tensioners then. Zero engine issues though. And I rode that 88" hard, very hard.
I think the power potential from a Twin Cam is far more than from an Evo. Part of that is the increase in cubic inches obviously but the heads and cam options really raised the bar. The only drawback on the Twin Cams in my opinion is the seemingly inevitable valve train noise.
Your right about that.
I've got a 2000 Fat Boy that I really enjoy. Not fast, but its taken me all over the eastern U.S. without much drama. Trickiest part is I'm a carb tuning novice, and mine's giving me a little bit of hesitation just off idle. Otherwise, I love the bike. Comfy and chill ride, all the way.
does it surge at low speed
Love my 96” in my Heritage. At stage 2 right now. May or may not go further on the performance but, Twin Cams might also be the most workable engine they’ve ever made with the biggest selection of aftermarket upgrades. Only complaint is the heat it throws off which, is a lot.
I agree, they really were smart and took advantage of people wanting upgrades when they designed that engine.
Got two TC Dyna 88 and Electra 103 love them both... easy to work on and reliable. Milwaukee 8 also have their problems in early production... all engines will ....
Yes
Recently picked up a 2000 Road King with just 13k miles. I’ve been riding it almost everyday and love it. Far too soon to tell, but hopefully it’s as reliable as my old Evo has been.
Started out with a 75 sportster 40 years ago then to a 1980 shovelhead then to a brand new 92 Heritage evo and now a 2005 Softail Springer Classic. Changed the tensioners last year with the help of your video. i have had no issues with the 88 and it is bone stock.
Glade to be able to help with the vid.
I inherited my late father's 2005 Ultra Classic with an 88 Twin Cam and 20k miles. Other than doing the tensioner shoes(thanks to you and Cyco Gaskets), cobbling together a new oil pump, and updating the umbrella valves in the rocker boxes I haven't touched it. I also haven't gone down the rabbit hole and started modifying the shit out of it. I just ride it and it runs just fine.
Heck yeah that thing will last you a very long time, trust me I know.
Good to see you on here again Dave. I’ve had a shovel head and I had to work on it a lot. It sounded righteous though. My first twin cam was a 99 Electra Glide standard and I liked that bike a lot plus it still sounded good but not as good as the shovel. I had several twin cams after that one till the M8 came out now that bike sounds like shit even with the big cam I put into it when I bumped it up to 131. As you know I just bought a 2003 screamin eagle deuce last spring with 2400 miles on it. Except for the idle problem when it’s cold I absolutely love that bike. I changed the exhaust and redone the air cleaner so it could breath as well as got rid of the venting into the cylinders. I tuned it and I can’t believe how quick it is with SE 203 cams. Plus it sounds so good. I guess you can figure out which is my favorite. Take care my friend!
Thanks now that I'm all healed up from the motor home trying to kill me were back at it.
I’m a TC guy all day every day. Iv owned 6 of them. Two 07s three 12s an a 15. Never been stranded or had any failures hoping around town or on long trips. My current hide is a 2012 EGC 103 (my favorite 103) got it with 24k did a stage 2 an put 12k on it in a yr an love every minute of riding it. With the stage 2 it smokes my boys 21 114 stage 1 SG. Only down fall to me about the TC is the heat but I found with a tank lift it helps keep it cooler. Buts it’s a Harley it’s goin to be hot lol
Right people gotta realise were riding with heaters between our legs. Glade to hear you have had good times with twin cams
I’ve had my TC88 for 20yrs, 170,000 Kay’s later,( that’s Aussie for kilometres) apart from cam problems I would not change motor for all the tea in China !
Yep
I have an 04 tc88. I’ve changed tensioners, inner cam bearings, upgraded oil pump. Runs great. At times it’s a little underpowered but nothing that can’t be upgraded.
yep i agree
I think the thing with TC was the NASA engineering to put two cams and oil pump inside the engine (when Evo had a way simpler synchro and an external and reliable pump) - not to mention the Softail counterbalance system. And, of course, electronic fuel injection option.
A lot of innovation at once.
Iv bought a new 2003 Duece back in the day, has the twin cam 88. Never had any issues to this day. Not even a drop of oil has leaked. I currently have 80,000km & I’m thinking to replace the cam tensioners & upgrade to the screaming eagle hydraulic. Love this bike ❤
I'm like you I got 100,000 miles on both of mine and not a drop of oil leaks.
My tc88 fxdx 2000 has a runout on the pinion 0,001. With 50k Miles on it. Followed David advice and put the Cyco shoes on the spring tensioners. The inner one was still in good shape. The cam chest has seen the daylight first time after 25 years, the camplate had still both ball bearings pressed, they were fine too. I have replaced some of the parts since 25 years have passed and developed an uderstanding and a relationship to this machine at the same time. I took the engine apart and rebuild it with a professional support from my local engine builder. Runs great and is an eye catcher. None of it would have been possible without David‘s support and mentoring. I will keep this bike forever.
Thanks for the compliment. I forgot yours was a 2000 I was thinking it was a 99 like mine when I said they were shipped out together. I guess I should have gone back and looked. Glade to see you enjoying it, you been getting to ride her much.
@@DeathProofProductions the Label on the Frame says October 99 :) First registration was may 2000
Yeah that makes since they always put the black dynas out first typically in Sep to October before the model year. Mine's a 99 but I got it in September of 98 and yours is the next year. That explains why the decal is the same as mine.
I absolutely love my twin cam 103”. Dead reliable, good power. It’s a tough engine.
I agree
I've owned three Twin Cams. Still have one and had no problems with them.
I've had a few heritage softails both injected. i enjoy my 02 heritage but now I think I have a balancer bearing. I love it.
I had and rode a '55 Panhead and a '68 generator Shovelhead for many years when the Evo came out and the 'Instant (credit-card) Biker' craze was born. I was firmly in the "Hear No Evo, See No Evo, Ride No Evo" camp.
When the Twin Cam or "Twinkie" came out, and I saw how it was put together 😳, I went out and bought my first Evo, a '97 FLHPi! Still riding all 3!
I do love my evo but i love my pans shovels and flathead to. Really I just like bikes.
I have a Twin cam. 2012 SG 103 I love it. I had a shovelhead in the past and a buell. XB12TT. The 103 pulls like the buell. Pulls much hard then my 80 Cid shovel
I have a 2008 96 cubic inch Electra Glide. Love it. I previously had a 1999 88 and rode it hard for 11 years. No problems.
Hell yeah bro keep on riding.
There's a lot of bike owners like me gen x that all they ever had was a twin cam. Not old enough to have the older engines and not rich enough to have a newer one. 60k miles now and the only work I've had done is a new stator.
I've owned and rode all of them from the knucklehead up and I can tell you that they have there issues. People should remember there all just a evolution of the one before it.
My favorite bike is my 2003 FatBoy anniversary. Used your video to install new tensioner shoes and adjustable push rods. Love that bike!
I'm glad to have helped, I've had to fatboys and liked them both.
I love my 2009 FLHTCU the amazing sound and reliability does it for me!
I agree 100%
I have a 2006 Twin Cam. The entire cam case is S&S with gear drive 510 cams, plate, oil pump, adjustable push rods, and tappets.
My 06 dyna still running strong but still enjoy my 93 softail with evo more
Both great engines
I agree, heck I even love shovelheads.
Unfortunately never rode a shovelhead.but the sound is amazing
I have the 88 in.³ 2006 model it’s got just under 16,000 miles right now. I’ve bought the fueling kit to switch out the template pump. The whole works my center. Still looks fine but I’m not gonna wait. Gonna rebuild the compensator next and the clutch basket if it’s needed motorcycle runs real good but have had some issues with compensator noise periodically don’t know if it’s getting ready to fail, but I’m replaced that I’ve had with the bike is the heat that thing cooks my eggs every time I ride unless it’s a cold day and then it’s just wonderful. The bike runs really good and cool weather Struggles a little bit and noise when it’s a warm or hot day above 80° if I was gonna say anything about the twin camas, I wish I could just swap over to the 103 but finances being what they are in the economy, being what it is, I’m just choosing to upgrade components, that are wear items It’s my sincere belief that Harley should come out with oil coolers on these things along time ago, but they were more worried about cosmetics that’s about it. My bike is bad ass. It’s a FLSTCI EFI
Reread what I wrote last night well, I didn’t write it. I used diction on Apple iPhone. I’ve got to quit doing that when I reread what I had written there was a lot of spots that made no sense and I don’t know how the words get switched the way they do sorry about that, I think it still is understandable, but gotta get used to my fat fingers typing