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 4 Motorcycle Engine

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#2233-12 Rocker Arm Shaft Washer O-Ring Kit Harley Shovelhead 66-84 — Colony #2233-12 Rocker Arm Shaft Washer O-Ring Kit 1966-1984 Harley-Davidson Shovelhead 1957-1984 XL
21 reviews $6.05

Colony #3351-4 Rocker Arm Thrust Washer Kit 1936-1947 Harley-Davidson Knucklehead
$12.09

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

Colony #3025-34 Rocker Arm Cover Screw Kit 1939-1947 Harley-Davidson Knucklehead - Parkerized
1 review $14.81

Colony #3311-1 Motorcase Breather Pipe Nipple Harley-Davidson 1952-1984 K/XL 1965-1967 FL/FLH
2 reviews $8.47

Colony #3326-2 Oil Pump Cover to Oil Filter Line Fitting 1950-1957 Harley-Davidson Big Twin - CAD Plated
1 review $7.26

Colony #3427-1 Head Cone Washer 1936-1934 Harley-Davidson Singles and All 45 Twins - CAD Plated
$8.47

Colony #3381-1 Lower Head Cone 1930-1938 Harley-Davidson 1930-1934 C Singles - CAD Plated
$22.00

Colony #3370-20 Sprocket Cover Stud Kit 1928-1934 Harley-Davidson Singles/45 Twins - CAD Plated
$32.84

Colony #3622-1 Oil Pump Feed Line Nut 1938-1957 Harley-Davidson Big Twins - CAD Plated
$7.70

Colony #3307-4 Intake and Exhaust Rocker Arm Cover Return Oil Line Nuts 1938-1947 Harley-Davidson Knucklehead
$21.56

Colony #8469-13 Oil Pump Screw Cap Nut 1968-1977 Harley-Davidson Big Twins - Chrome Plated
$27.89

Colony #8466-7 Timing Cover Cap Screw Kit Harley-Davidson 74s - Chrome Plated
$23.54

Colony #3024-34 Rocker Arm Cover Screw Kit 1939-1947 Harley-Davidson Knucklehead - CAD Plated
$14.81

Colony #3421-1 Oversized Motor Case Drain Plug 1936-1970 Harley-Davidson Big Twin Cases 1937-Up 45 Cases 1968-1984 Oil Pump Body - CAD Plated
$5.50

Colony #3420-1 Upper Head Cone 1930-1939 Harley-Davidson 1930-34 C Singles - CAD Plated
$33.00

Colony #3385-1 Head Cone Locknut 1930-1938 Harley-Davidson 1930-1934 C Singles - CAD Plated
$22.00

Colony #3407-14 Timing Cover Screw Kit 1930-1936 Harley-Davidson VL - CAD Plated
$20.63

Colony #3353-4 Oil Line Nut & Sleeve Rubber 1949-1964 Harley-Davidson Big Twins 1954-1966 KH/XL - CAD Plated
1 review $12.10

Colony #3306-2 Mainshaft Oil Seal Cork Washer & Main Drive Gear Spacer Key 1936-1979 Harley-Davidson Big Twins
$7.26

Colony #8445-12 Timing Cover Cap Set 1936-1969 Harley-Davidson 74 & 61 cu. in. OHV - Chrome Plated
$34.40

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