I found a Sportster engine for sale. What are the first things I should check or replace?

When starting with a used engine of unknown history, it's wise to at least perform a top-end refresh. This typically includes new gaskets, checking cylinder and piston tolerances, and inspecting the valve train. This gives you peace of mind and a reliable starting point.

What are the easiest ways to get more power from my stock Sportster engine?

The most common and effective "Stage 1" upgrades are improving airflow. This means installing a high-flow air cleaner and a less restrictive exhaust system. These two changes allow the engine to breathe more freely and will deliver a noticeable performance gain without ever opening up the motor itself.

I'm rebuilding my engine. How important is it to replace all the hardware?

While not always strictly necessary, it's highly recommended. Engine hardware is subject to countless heat cycles and stress, which can cause it to stretch and weaken over time. Using new, high-quality head bolts, case bolts, and other hardware ensures proper torque specs and a leak-free, reliable engine for years to come.

Raw 5 Motorcycle Engine

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Gasbox Top Motor Mount - 1957 - 1985 Ironhead Sportster XL - With Coil And Crank Key Start Mount
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Lowbrow Customs FiltroMax Belt Drive Mounting Bracket
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British Standard Engine Oil Seal Kit - 7 Piece - 1963 - 1972 Triumph Unit 650
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Colony #2142-12 Pushrod Cover Seal Kit 1979-1984 Harley-Davidson Shovelhead
3 reviews $13.40

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7 reviews $7.60

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2 reviews $10.42

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$6.96

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$6.60

Colony #3528-2 Manifold Intake Nipple Brass Seals 1923-1924 Harley-Davidson DCA/DCB 1925-1929 74" 1928-29 61"
$7.87

Colony #3526-2 Brass Intake Manifold Seals fits 1917-1923 Harley-Davidson 61"
$7.26

Colony #7120-4 Aluminum Valve Retainers - All Harley-Davidson Davidson OHV 74's
$35.13

Colony #3145-4 Rocker Box Drain Tube Kit 1936-1937 Harley-Davidson 61 Knucklehead
$35.00

Colony #3557-1 Sprocket Shaft Bearing Retainer Seal 1955-1968 Harley-Davidson 74's
$8.25

Colony #3556-1 Sprocket Shaft Seal 1940-1954 Harley-Davidson Big Twins
$6.60

Colony #3658-8 Circuit Breaker To Coil Wire Fastener Assembly 1949-1964 Harley-Davidson Twins/K/KH/Sportster
$9.90

Colony #3657-8 Circuit Breaker To Coil Wire Fastener Assembly 1936-1948 Harley-Davidson All Twins
$9.90

Colony #2877-2 Spring Guide Collar Set 1929-1980 Harley-Davidson All Models
2 reviews $9.68

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Colony #2284-2 Tappet Oil Screen 2000-Up Harley-Davidson Softail
$5.95

British Standard Engine and Transmission Lock Tab Set - 1963 - 1972 Triumph 650 with 4 Speed Gearbox
14 reviews $20.86

Colony #8011-4 Rocker Stud Bushing Kit 1930-1952 Harley-Davidson 45 Solo
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British Standard Triumph Crankshaft Main Bearing- Right Side- OEM part# 70-1591
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