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Is The Harley 114 A Good Engine? Yes and No (Here’s Why)

by

Chase Manhattan

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Owner and Editor at The Wrench Network

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Hey y’all, it’s Chase Manhattan! I’m a life-long automotive and motorcycle enthusiast with a knack for diagnostics that I hope to share with you! Lately, I’ve been running my own motorcycle rental business, which you can read about here, and it has been a great experience that has allowed me to own numerous bikes that I probably couldn’t justify otherwise. Plus, it’s been a great way to experience new places while on vacation. If you haven’t heard of them before, I definitely recommend checking out the Riders-Share platform if you get the itch to ride while away from home, or if you want to explore a cheaper way to own and ride motorcycles!

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When it comes to roaring power and thunderous performance, the Harley 114 engine often sparks discussions among bike enthusiasts. Yes, it’s a love-it-or-hate-it relationship, often colored with an array of opinions. But the burning question always emerges – is the Harley 114 a good engine?

The answer isn’t simple, it’s both yes and no. In this compelling dive, we’ll walk you through the highs and lows of the Harley 114, addressing common issues and praiseworthy attributes. Brace yourself for an in-depth exploration of the Harley 114 engine problems and the facets that make it shine. Strap in; it’s going to be a thrilling ride!

Common Harley 114 Engine Problems

Although the Harley 114 engine is renowned for its power and torque, it’s also notorious for certain issues that can deteriorate its performance over time. Let’s delve into the most common problems associated with this engine.

This is an infographic listing the common engine problems seen in the Harley 114 engine. To the left, an example of the engine is shown.

Compromised and Leaky Radiator

One of the prevalent issues with the Harley 114 engine is a defective radiator, often caused by sediment buildup. This can affect the cooling system, leading to overheating and potential engine damage.

How to Identify and Repair

Look out for signs like coolant leaks or an overheating engine. Regularly clean and flush the radiator to remove sediments and ensure it functions optimally. Additionally, check the radiator components, particularly the cap. Replace any faulty parts and consider changing the water pump if necessary.

Issues With Oil Sumping

Oil sumping, a condition where oil accumulates in places other than the oil tank (like the crankcase), is another common Harley 114 engine issue. This buildup can stress the engine components, leading to potential damage. The issue predominantly lies in Harley’s dry-sump design. This issue is less commonly seen in engines that use a wet-sump system.

Here’s a comparison between wet sump and dry sump systems:

To illustrate the difference between a wet sump, and dry sump, here's an infographic detailing the differences.

What Is This?

Oil sumping is essentially the engine’s inability to return all the oil to the tank, leading to an oil buildup in the engine’s lower parts. Over time, this can affect the engine’s performance and even lead to severe damage.

Related article: Harley Davidson Engine Rebuild Cost

How To Identify and Repair

Keeping an eye on the cam chain tensioners can help prevent oil sumping. If you notice a damaged supply line, replace it immediately. You might also consider changing the head gasket and switching to S&S; cycle oil filters.

Intermittent Clutch Problems

Clutch problems are another hurdle for Harley 114 engine owners. These can make it challenging to engage the gears, posing a risk of accidents. The primary cause is an internal fluid leak, often due to faulty gaskets.

Read more: Harley Davidson Transmission Problems? Help Is Here

How to Identify and Repair

Ensure that you address any visible fluid leaks promptly. If you’re having trouble engaging gears, it’s best to have a mechanic inspect your bike.

Consistent Overheating Issues

Overheating is a common issue with Harley 114 engines, often due to problems like a compromised radiator or oil sumping.

What Can You Do About This?

Regular maintenance is key to preventing overheating. Regularly clean and flush the radiator and monitor the oil supply line. If necessary, replace the head gasket and switch to S&S; cycle oil filters.

How To Identify The Issue

Signs of overheating include reduced engine performance, engine noise, and, in severe cases, an engine shutdown. If your bike shows any of these signs, have it inspected immediately.

Air Becoming Trapped in The Engine Oil

Air entrapment in the lubricating oil, known as oil aeration, is another common issue. The entrapped air can increase the stress on engine components, potentially causing damage.

Is This The Same as Oil Sumping?

While oil aeration and sumping can both adversely affect engine performance, they are different issues. Oil aeration refers to air bubbles in the oil, while oil sumping refers to oil accumulation in the wrong places.

How To Identify and Repair

Correcting oil sumping can help prevent oil aeration. Regular checks, immediate repairs for damaged supply lines, changing the head gasket, and switching to S&S; cycle oil filters can help prevent this issue.

Faulty Cam Chain Tensioners

The plastic cam chain, prone to wear and tear due to constant usage, can eventually disintegrate. This leads to reduced cam chain tensioner performance, which can result in complete engine failure.

Harley cam chain tensioner exposed from an open engine casing. This is used to illustrate a common failure point on both twin cam engines, and milwaukee 8 engines like the Harley 114.

Is This The Same Issue As Seen In Twin Cam Motors?

Yes, both the Harley 114 engine and twin cam motors can experience cam chain tensioner issues due to the same underlying problem: wear and tear due to constant usage.

Related article: Harley Twin Cam Years to Avoid

How To Identify, Repair, and Prevent

Frequent inspections can help identify this issue early. If you notice any wear and tear, replace the parts immediately. Avoid using counterfeit parts as they can cause further, irreparable damage.

Related articles:
> Harley 107 vs 114
> Harley 107 vs 114 vs 117: A Milwaukee Bound Shootout

Other Quality of Life Complaints

In addition to the issues mentioned above, Harley 114 engine owners have reported other minor complaints that can affect the riding experience.

Excessive Vibration From The Engine

Owners have reported excessive engine vibration at high speeds. This can be due to engine imbalance, a failing harmonic balancer, or other issues.

Affected model: Road Glide Years to Avoid

Occasionally Poor Acceleration

Some owners have reported miscalculated acceleration, often resulting from increased oil pressure. This can lead to white smoke coming from the exhaust pipes.

Loud Rattling and Engine Noises

Loud, unusual engine noises can be a sign of a loose component or other issues. For instance, if the shaft pin is loose or displaced, the noise can become very loud and rattling.

Here's a cut-away visualization of the inside components of the Harley 114 engine. This is used to illustrate why some owners may complain about loud engine noises.

Are There Any Recalls For The 114 Engine?

Milwaukee 8 Oil Pump Recalls

Harley-Davidson issued a recall for the oil pump in some Milwaukee 8 engines, which includes the 114 engine. The issue was that the oil pump might not provide enough oil to the engine under certain conditions.

What To Do About It

If your bike is affected by the recall, take it to an authorized Harley-Davidson dealer. They will replace the faulty oil pump free of charge.

How Long Will A 114 Engine Last?

The longevity of the Harley 114 engine, like any mechanical marvel, is a blend of engineering prowess and the care it receives. Harley designed the 114 engine to withstand the test of time. However, the engine’s lifespan isn’t just depending on its manufacturing and development, but also to the maintenance it receives. On average, with regular upkeep, the Harley 114 engine can last between 80,000 to 100,000 miles. Some have even reported crossing the 150,000-mile mark without major issues.

Related articles:
> Whats High Mileage For A Harley Davidson?
> Are Harley Davidsons Reliable?

Tips to Increase Longevity and Reliability

Maintenance

Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and checking the spark plugs can significantly impact the engine’s lifespan. Using high-quality lubricants and parts can also make a difference.

Related articles:
> Best Spark Plugs for Harley Davidson Motorcycles
> The Best Batteries for A Harley Davidson

Riding Habits

How you ride can affect engine longevity. Constantly pushing the engine to its limits or frequently riding in extreme conditions can reduce its lifespan.

Storage

Proper storage, especially during off-seasons, can prevent unnecessary wear and tear. Keeping the bike in a dry, cool place and using a bike cover can protect the engine from environmental factors.

Addressing Issues Promptly

As highlighted earlier, the Harley 114 engine does have its set of problems. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent them from escalating and affecting the engine’s longevity.

What Does The Community Say About The Engine?

The Harley 114 engine has received mixed reviews from the biker community. While some praise its power and torque, others express concerns about the various issues discussed above. Despite these problems, many agree that with proper maintenance, the Harley 114 engine can be a good and reliable engine.

All in all, while the Harley 114 engine has its share of problems, with proper maintenance and attention to potential issues, it can provide a powerful and enjoyable biking experience.

Read next: Twin Cam vs M8

FAQs

In this section, we’ll address some frequently asked questions about the Harley 114.

Is the Harley 114 a Good Engine?

The Harley 114 engine is generally considered a good engine, known for its robust performance and significant power output. It offers a greater displacement than its predecessors, providing a noticeable increase in torque and horsepower, which enhances the overall riding experience.

What are Common Problems with the Harley 114 Engine?

Some reported issues with the Harley 114 engine include excessive heat generation, oil leakage, and potential clutch problems. However, these issues vary by individual bikes and usage.

How Reliable is the Harley 114 Engine?

The Harley 114 engine is known for its reliability, especially when properly maintained. Regular servicing and proper riding habits can significantly reduce the likelihood of mechanical issues.

Does the Harley 114 Engine Overheat Often?

Overheating in the Harley 114 engine can occur, particularly in heavy traffic or during long rides in hot weather. Ensuring good airflow and regular maintenance can help mitigate this issue.

Are Oil Leaks Common in Harley 114 Engines?

While some riders report oil leaks, this is not a widespread problem for all Harley 114 engines. Regular checks and maintenance can often prevent or quickly resolve such issues.

How Does the Harley 114 Engine Perform in Terms of Power and Torque?

The Harley 114 engine delivers impressive power and torque, making it suitable for long rides and highway cruising. Its larger displacement offers a noticeable improvement over smaller engines in the Harley lineup.

How Does the Harley 114 Engine Compare to Other Harley Engines?

Compared to other Harley engines, the 114 offers more displacement, resulting in higher torque and power. It is a step up from the 107 engine and is often preferred for its superior performance.

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