Pounding down the highway, the rhythmic roar of your Harley 117 engine beneath you—it’s a thrill like no other. But sometimes, the open road has a few bumps. Even the robust Harley 117 engine has been known to give its devoted riders a bit of a headache with unexpected problems. Don’t rev your worry engines yet though; just like the legendary freedom of a Harley ride, there’s always a way out. This article is your road map to identifying, understanding, and repairing some of the most common Harley 117 problems. Strap in as we navigate through the nitty-gritty of mechanical fixes, ensuring your ride stays as smooth and thrilling as it should be. With our comprehensive guide, those pesky engine problems are about to get fixed. The good news: the journey continues, freeing you to experience the pure euphoria that is the Harley Davidson legacy. Ready? Let’s keep rolling.
What Are The Most Common Harley 117 Problems?
Harley 117 engines have demonstrated a range of issues over the years. In this section, we will enumerate the typical problems associated with this engine:
- Excess Vibration
- Issues With The Camshaft
- Problems With The Starter and Ignition System
- Transmission Issues
Let’s analyze these issues in detail and learn how to fix them.
Excessive Oil Consumption
The problem of oil consumption signifies that the engine burns more oil than it should ideally. This problem could manifest in several ways, such as visible exhaust smoke, reduced engine power, or frequent refilling of oil. Underlying factors like worn-out piston rings, a malfunctioning PCV valve, or a clogged air filter could cause this.
The solution lies in checking and replacing the air filter if necessary. If the problem persists, a professional mechanic should inspect and replace the PCV valve. If neither solution resolves the issue, you may need to replace the piston rings.
In some cases, high oil consumption could be a result of a faulty valve seal. In this case, replacing the valve seal will solve the problem. And in others, riders have been find to be using the wrong oil.
Related: The Best Oil for M8 Harley Engines Gets Revealed (Complete)
Excess Heat
The heat issue often results from the engine working harder than usual, leading to excess heat generation. The root causes can be a poorly tuned engine, inappropriate oil usage, and an obstructed cooling system. (If it’s tuning related, a Harley specific tuner is a quick remedy.)
To address these issues, first, tune your engine correctly. Secondly, use the correct oil as per the manufacturer’s recommendation. Finally, ensure there are no blockages or leaks in the cooling system.
Excess Vibration
The vibration issue usually arises from unbalanced rotating assemblies, which can stress the engine components, leading to premature failure. This issue might be due to improperly aligned parts or uneven wear and tear.
Fixing this issue requires identifying the source of the imbalance, inspecting engine components for signs of excessive wear or misalignment, and replacing or realigning them as needed.
Issues With The Camshaft
Camshaft issues in the 117 engine can significantly affect the engine’s performance. These problems typically occur from excessive wear and tear on the camshaft’s lobes, often due to poor oil maintenance or high mileage.
To rectify it, replace the worn camshaft with a new one. Always ensure that your engine is well lubricated to minimize wear and tear.
Problems With The Starter and Ignition System
Starter issues with the Harley 117 engine typically manifest as difficulties or delays in starting the motorcycle. These issues can be due to various factors, such as a faulty starter motor, a weak battery, or a problematic ignition switch. To fix these issues, inspect the battery, starter motor, and ignition switch, replacing them if necessary.
Transmission Issues (Difficulty Shifting, Compensator Problems, and More)
Issues with the transmission can result in rough shifting and a slipping transmission, which can occur from inadequate fluid levels, worn-out gears, and damaged bearings. Needless to say, it helps to always use the correct fluid levels to rule out the simple things first. Specifically, read this: Harley M8 Primary Oil Capacity (All Engine Sizes Explained)
To fix these problems, identify the source of the problem. If bearings are the culprits, seek a professional mechanic’s assistance, as this requires specialized tools and expertise.
However, proper maintenance is always a positive preventative measure to take: Best Oil For Harley Transmission And Primary Gets Revealed
Is The Harley 117 A Good Engine?
Despite these common problems, it’s essential to note that the Harley 117 is a good engine. It showcases Harley Davidson’s dedication to delivering high-performance and durable machines. With its high displacement, the 117 engine provides a robust and smooth ride, while its quality construction ensures long-term durability.
Otherwise, Is The Harley 117 Reliable?
Yes, the Harley 117 engine is known for its reliability aside from these issues. However, like any engine, it requires regular maintenance and proper care to ensure its efficiency and longevity. By promptly addressing the common problems highlighted in this article, you can ensure that your Harley 117 engine stays reliable and efficient for a long time.
But how does it compare? Harley 107 vs 114 vs 117: A Milwaukee Bound Shootout
Remember, the key to a healthy engine is regular maintenance and immediate response to any issues that may arise. With proper care and attention, your Harley 117 engine can provide you with a smooth and powerful ride for a long time.