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 Valve Components 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 #8732-24 Valve Cover Screws 1-1/4 inch Long 1954-1965 Harley-Davidson Panhead With Alloy D-Rings - Chrome Plated
1 review $41.97

Colony #8735-24 Valve Cover Screws 45/64 inch Long 1954-1965 Harley-Davidson Panhead With Steel D-Rings - CAD Plated
1 review $34.93

Colony #8733-24 Valve Cover Screws 1-1/4 inch Long 1954-1965 Harley-Davidson Panhead With Alloy D-Rings - CAD Plated
$34.93

Colony #3692-1 Valve Spring Lifter 1939-1948 Harley-Davidson UL/ULH Sidevalves
$30.80

Colony #8736-24 Valve Cover Screws 1954-1965 Harley-Davidson Panhead With Steel D-Rings - Chrome Plated
$24.71

Colony #3800-24 OEM Style Valve Cover Screw 1948-1950 Harley-Davidson Panhead
$22.00

Colony #2850-24 Stock Style Panhead Valve Cover Screw Kit 1951-1954 Harley-Davidson Panhead
1 review $22.00

Colony #3092-24 Valve Spring Cover Kit 1937-1938 Harley-Davidson Big Twin Side Valve - Chrome Plated
$231.00

Colony #3091-24 Valve Spring Cover Kit 1930-1936 Harley-Davidson VL - Chrome Plated
$231.00

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

Colony #2015-6 Oversize Valve Cover Screws 1948-1965 Harley-Davidson Panhead W/Steel D Rings - CAD Plated
$19.12

Colony #2885-24 Valve Spring Cover Set Plated 1930-1936 Harley-Davidson VL - CAD Plated
$198.00

Colony #2811-13 Instrument Panel Light Switch Kit 1936-1945 Harley-Davidson Big Twin/45s - CAD Plated
$40.70

Colony #3273-20 Valve Spring Cover Kit 1931-1941 Harley-Davidson 45's - Chrome Plated
$127.60

Colony #3057-4 Lower Valve Spring Cover Kit 1952-1956 Harley-Davidson K Models
$88.00

Colony #3300-12 Valve Cover Seal Kit 1930-1936 Harley-Davidson VL 1937-1938 Sidevalves
$14.52

Colony #3187-10 Valve Spring Cover Kit 1926 - 1934 Harley-Davidson Singles — Colony #3187-10 Valve Spring Cover Kit 1926-1934 Harley-Davidson Singles - Nickel Plated
1 review $60.50

Colony #2717-20 Valve Spring Cover Kit 1942-1973 Harley-Davidson 45s - CAD Plated
4 reviews $105.60

Colony #2642-20 Valve Spring Cover Kit 1931-1941 Harley-Davidson Davidson 45's - CAD Plated
$105.60

Colony #2015-6 Oversize Panhead Valve Cover Screws 1948-1965 Harley-Davidson Panhead W/Steel D Rings - Chrome Plated
$21.73

Colony #2014-6 Oversize Panhead Valve Cover Screws 1948-1965 Harley-Davidson Panhead W/Alloy D Rings - Chrome Plated
1 review $21.73

Colony #2014-6 Oversize Panhead Valve Cover Screws 1948-1965 Harley-Davidson Panhead W/Alloy D Rings - CAD Plated
$19.12

Colony #9984-24 Valve Cover Washers 1954-1965 Harley-Davidson Panhead - Chrome Plated
$15.52

Colony #9985-24 Valve Cover Washers 1954-1965 Harley-Davidson Panhead - CAD Plated
$11.56

Colony #8734-24 Valve Cover Screws 45/64 inch Long 1954-1965 Harley-Davidson Panhead With Steel D-Rings - Chrome Plated
$41.97

Colony #8737-24 Valve Cover Allen Screw Kit 1954-1965 Harley-Davidson Panhead With Steel D-Rings - Chrome Plated
$23.69

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