idle

can someone help me, i have a 04 low rider, inj. with the stage 1, hd air kit and hd pipes. i would like to idle it down from 900 r's, it still has the plug in the throtle body. i was told that idleing it down would cause oil pressure problems. is this so? also i have heard that this engine has cam bearing problems. is there a port or plug to get a pressure guage installed? thats all the questions for now. thanks in advance. mofasa

The idle speed is controlled bythe ECU and is set by engine temperature as part of the temp control system. The HRT (Harley Race Tuner) does allow adjustment of the idle control table but from what I understand it can get tricky.

Idling too low lowers oil pressure and the ability of the alternator to provide adequate amperage to keep up with demand.

There is a pressure tap at the right front of the engine right at about frame tube height. A gauge can be teed in there with the pressure sensor.

A lot of people want that low, loping that heard from Shovels and EVO's converted to points. Just not a good idea with today's electronics.

thank you cd, heard any thing about the cam bearings?

The first twin cams built for the 1999 and early 2000 models had an issue with the cam bearings. I had a 2000 model and had an upgraded cam installed. My mechanic told me that Harley had released a "fix" for the cam bearings (not a recall, however) which had given problems but that I didn't need it because my bike had the new and improved style. My bike had been manufactured in October of 1999.

I found some reading material back then about this problem. If I remember correctly, Harley quit installing the defective setup early in the 2000 year model bikes.

Rumors being what they are, I wouldn't be surprised if that is what you are referring to. If so, your bike certainly isn't involved. I haven't heard of any other issues since that time.

I've owned four twin cams and ridden them all over the country in all kinds of weather and at all speeds. They are a solid engine. Enjoy yours and don't worry too much about what might go wrong.

thanks FF, i will run like the wind with no worries.