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.

Harley-Davidson Zinc Plated Motorcycle Engine

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Colony #3020-8 Head Bolt Set 12 Point 1992-Up Harley-Davidson Big Twin/Twin Cam 1993-Up XL - Zinc Plated
2 reviews $77.00

Colony #3019-8 Head Bolt Set 12 Point 1985-1991 Harley-Davidson Big Twin 1986-1992 XL - Zinc Plated
2 reviews $77.00

Colony #8807-17 Motor Mounting Kit Upper & Lower 1970-1984 Harley-Davidson Big Twin - Zinc Plated
2 reviews $33.67

Colony #2538-2 Ignition Timer Cover Stud Kit 1972-1979 Harley-Davidson Big Twin - Zinc Plated
1 review $13.92

Colony #2540-2 Ignition Timer Cover Stud Kit 1980-Up Harley-Davidson Big Twin/XL - Zinc Plated
$13.92

Colony #2440-2 Crankcase Vent Fitting and Hose 1977-1980 Harley-Davidson Sportster - Zinc Plated
2 reviews $13.22

Colony #7411-2 Sprocket Shaft Seal Assembly Replaces 1936-1954 Harley-Davidson Big Twins
1 review $24.26

Colony #2308-2 Rocker Arm Cover to Frame Bracket Stud Kit 1978-1985 Harley-Davidson XL/XLCH - Zinc Plated
2 reviews $20.31

Colony #3403-8 Cylinder Base Stud Spacers 1978-1984 Harley-Davidson Shovelheads - Zinc Plated
1 review $19.51

Colony #2745-2 Oversized Ignition Timer Cover Stud Kit 1972-1979 Harley-Davidson Big Twin - Zinc Plated
$13.92

Colony #2853-6 Upper Engine Mounting Kit 1984-1999 Harley-Davidson Softail - Zinc Plated
1 review $12.71

Colony #8211-2 Sprocket Shaft Seal Assembly 1939-1973 Harley-Davidson 45's
3 reviews $3.89

Colony #2285-1 Motor Sprocket Nut 1993-Up Harley-Davidson Sportster - Zinc Plated
1 review $7.15

Colony #2118-15 Lower Front Hex Head Motor Mount Kit 2000-Up Harley-Davidson Softail - Zinc Plated
$44.67

Colony #9881-2 Generator Screw Kit Stock 1971-1985 Harley-Davidson Sportster - Zinc Plated
$7.51

Colony #3166-1 Timer Screw 1970-E1978 Harley-Davidson FL 1971-E1978 FX/XL - Zinc Plated
$9.68

Colony #3058-10 Rear Motor Mount & Sprocket Cover Mounting Kit 1983-1985 Harley-Davidson XL - Zinc Plated
$27.50

Colony #3051-1 Oversized Drain Plug 1965-1984 Harley-Davidson FL 1971-1984 FX Chain Housing 1967-1992 XL Crankcase - Zinc Plated
$7.26

Colony #2743-2 Oversized Ignition Timer Cover Stud Kit 1980-Up Harley-Davidson Big Twin/Sportster - Zinc Plated
$13.92

Colony #2293-1 Motor Sprocket Nut 1991-1992 Harley-Davidson Sportster - Zinc Plated
$7.15

Colony #9884-20 Motor Case Flanged Hardware Kit 1996-Up Harley-Davidson Big Twin Evo - Zinc Plated
$39.11

Colony #9967-4 Top Motor Mount to Cylinder Head Hardware 1993-Up Harley-Davidson Big Twin 1986-Up XL - Zinc Plated
$12.74

Colony #9855-28 Upper & Lower Motor Mount Kit 1984-1999 Harley-Davidson Softail - Zinc Plated
$42.00

Colony #9860-20 Lower Motor Mount Kit 1988-2006 Harley-Davidson FLT/FLHT/FXR/FXRS
$36.94

Colony #9101-8 Cylinder Base Nut Set Zinc 1978-1984 Harley-Davidson Shovelhead OEM# 16838-78 - Zinc Plated
1 review $20.35

Colony #9787-12 Oil Pump Mounting Kit Stock 1978-1991 Harley-Davidson Big Twins - Zinc Plated
$8.78

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