I have installed Cobra three-inch slip-ons, Vance & Hines VO2 naked air breather kit, and the FP3 from Vance & Hines as well. I did this to help enrich the fuel and cool down the engine a little as they are super lean stock.
Before doing any of this, I noticed that the pipe from the front cylinder is a little darker than the rear cylinder and has soot in the end. Even with the upgrades, it is still the same. I am concerned that the rear cylinder has an intake leak or something causing the rear cylinder to be leaner than the front. The bike has 11,000 miles.
I need this bike to last for many years and just want to make sure I don’t have a problem. I do not trust the dealership any longer, as I was told five different answers about where the cat converter is on this model. I don’t think they have a clue when it comes to newer engines.
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There is nothing unusual with what you describe. It is what it is. If you are not experiencing any problems, why look for one? Don’t overthink it. It’s an air-cooled motor. The 2014 Softails are excellent, and the performance upgrades you added are great choices. Service that bike regularly and it will last you a good long time.
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Just my two cents on this. I have a 2004 Dyna Wide Glide twin cam 88 with 105,000 miles and I have owned it since it was new. Though out the years I have experienced some darkening of the exhaust from brown to black and to gray and back to black/gray. I notice it was mostly related to the gasoline I was using at the time. So you might want to changed brands or stations. Just an FYI the best gas I have ever used was in Idaho, (93 obtain ethanol free). I don't think you have a problem. It is good that you keep an eye on it.
Older motors I've had experience with (Pans, Shovels), the rear cylinder is the hotter of the two. That was then, this is now. I've never noticed the same since then except on an EVO motor. Again, it seems to be because of the cooling. Front jug is going to be cooler out in the airflow. Use an infrared thermometer to gauge both. Just a thought to go on, but I don't think you have a problem
My 2006 Heritage Softail is cutting out and go dead at low rpms, if you can keep it running till you get the rpms up to 45 or over 50 miles per hour it runs perfect. I changed the plugs and replaced the fuel pump and filter and nothing changed it still has a problem. Got any ideas that will help?
“It is what it is”…is not addressing his question. The majority of exhaust exits the right pipe. I would interested to hear from someone with true duels if they notice a difference between the two. If you did not decat the bike, the FF3 is sending more fuel, making it run hotter because the cat can’t compensate and burn it all and probably contributing to your soot issue.
I have a 81 low rider(shovel) had problems starting it for awhile, I checked compression on both cylinders, front was around 125, rear was 50, never used oil, pipes are clean,could I have a bad or stuck valve?