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 9 Motorcycle Engine

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Colony #7711-18-45 Head Bolt Set 1940-1954 Harley-Davidson 45's with Aluminum Heads - CAD Plated
$88.72

Colony #7131-12 Aluminum Alloy Tubular Adjustable Pushrods & Lifter Adapters 1953-1965 Harley-Davidson Panhead
$85.45

Colony #7132-12 Aluminum Alloy Tubular Adjustable Pushrods & Lifter Adapters - 1966-1984 Harley-Davidson Shovelhead
$85.45

Colony #8603-8 Adjustable Pushrod & Solid Lifter Kit 1984-Up Harley-Davidson Evo
2 reviews $102.11

James Gaskets Motor Gasket Kit W/Alum-Foamet Base 1948-1965 Harley-Davidson Panhead
$101.74

Colony #8216-18 Head Bolt Kit 1940-1947 Harley-Davidson Alloy Flathead 74 & 80 - Chrome Plated
$123.48

Colony #7712-36 Head Bolt Set 1940-Up Harley-Davidson 45's 1930-1947 Flathead 74's/80's with Iron Heads - CAD Plated
$97.04

Colony #7711-18 Head Bolt Set CAD Plated 1940-1947 Harley-Davidson Flathead 74's/80's with Aluminum Heads - CAD Plated
$98.48

Colony #2253-36 Adjustable Pushrod Cover Kit 2004-Up Harley-Davidson Sportster
$140.00

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

Colony #2117-15 Motor Mount Kit Smooth Hex Bolts 2000-Up Harley-Davidson Softail - Chrome Plated
$58.20

Colony #2255-36 Adjustable Pushrod Cover Kit 1990-2003 Harley-Davidson Sportster - Chrome Plated
2 reviews $140.00

Colony #2140-40 Early Style Pushrod Cover Adaptor Kit 1990-2003 Harley-Davidson Sportster - Chrome Plated
1 review $155.00

Colony #2116-15 Lower Front Hex Head Motor Mount Kit 2000-Up Harley-Davidson Softail - Chrome Plated
1 review $58.20

Colony #9728-36 Head Bolt Set 1940-Up Harley-Davidson Flathead 45 1930-1947 74/80 Iron Head - Parkerized
4 reviews $97.04

Colony #9727-18 Head Bolt Set 1940-1947 Harley-Davidson 74/80 Alloy Head - Parkerized
3 reviews $98.48

Colony #8218-36 Head Bolt Kit 1940-Up Harley-Davidson 1930-1947 Flathead 74 & 80 Iron Heads - Chrome Plated
$123.48

Colony #8217-18-45 Head Bolt Kit 1940-1954 Harley-Davidson Alloy Head 45's - Chrome Plated
$109.36

Colony #7517-8 Knucklehead Rocker Arm Cover Nut Strip & Screw Plate Kit 1936-1947 Harley-Davidson Knucklehead
1 review $57.94

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