Are you a Harley-Davidson enthusiast looking for that extra kick in your ride? If so, you’ve likely heard about the S&S 124 engines and their reputation for boosting performance. But as with any high-powered upgrade, there’s a flip side. Some riders have shared their challenges with these engines, ranging from piston slapping—a knocking noise that worsens with speed—to oil pressure issues, particularly during those cold starts or when pushing the throttle hard. But what do these S&S 124 problems mean for you?
While not every S&S 124 engine will give you grief, being clued into these potential hiccups is crucial for any rider considering this upgrade. Whether it’s the annoying piston slap or the oil pressure drops, regular maintenance and a keen ear can help mitigate these issues. But that’s not all; excessive oil consumption and overheating have also been flagged by some users. These engines are designed to run hot, but how hot is too hot? And then there’s the question of reliability—can this high-performance engine handle your adventurous spirit on long rides?
From camshaft complications to bottom-end troubles, the inner workings of the S&S 124 engine are a blend of high performance with potential pitfalls. But fear not; with proper care and regular check-ups, these engines can indeed be a reliable partner on the road. So, how do you navigate these waters to ensure your engine doesn’t just roar but also purrs smoothly on those long rides? Could understanding these common issues and how to prevent them be the key to unlocking the full potential of your S&S 124 engine?
Overview of The Most Common S&S 124 Problems
S&S 124 is a high-performance engine that is widely used in Harley Davidson motorcycles. While it is known for its power and torque, it is not without its problems. In this section, we will provide an overview of the most common issues that users have reported with the S&S 124 engine.
One of the most common problems with the S&S 124 engine is excessive oil consumption. This can be caused by a number of factors, including worn piston rings, damaged cylinder walls, or a clogged crankcase ventilation system. It is important to regularly check the oil level and address any issues promptly to prevent further damage.
Another issue that users have reported is excessive heat. While the S&S 124 engine is designed to run hot, some users have reported that it runs hotter than expected, especially during long rides. This can lead to overheating and other problems, such as pinging and knocking.
In addition to these issues, some users have reported problems with the reliability of the S&S 124 engine. While it is a high-performance engine, it may not be suitable for long rides or heavy use. Some users have reported piston slap and oil in the cylinders, which can be a sign of serious engine problems.
Overall, the S&S 124 engine is a powerful and reliable engine that can provide years of service with proper maintenance and care. However, it is important to be aware of the potential issues and address them promptly to prevent further damage and ensure the longevity of the engine.
Diving Deeper Into Reported Performance Issues
Compression Challenges
One of the most common performance issues with the S&S 124 engine is related to compression. Many riders have reported that the engine struggles to maintain compression, leading to a loss of power and performance. This can be particularly noticeable when the engine is under load, such as when climbing hills or accelerating quickly.
According to dyno sheets, the S&S 124 engine typically produces around 100-110 horsepower and 110-120 ft-lbs of torque. However, when compression issues arise, these numbers can drop significantly. In some cases, riders have reported a loss of up to 20 horsepower and 25 ft-lbs of torque.
Compression issues can be caused by a number of factors, including worn piston rings, damaged cylinder walls, or a clogged crankcase ventilation system. If left unaddressed, these issues can lead to further damage to the engine, including piston slap and oil in the cylinders.
RPM Limitations
Another common performance issue with the S&S 124 engine is related to RPM limitations. Many riders have reported that the engine struggles to rev higher than 5,500 RPM, which can limit top-end power and performance.
While the S&S 124 engine is designed to provide plenty of low-end torque, it can struggle to maintain this torque at higher RPMs. This can be particularly noticeable when riding at high speeds or when trying to accelerate quickly.
To address RPM limitations, some riders have installed aftermarket camshafts or other performance upgrades. However, these upgrades can be expensive and may not always provide the desired results.
Overall, while the S&S 124 engine is known for its power and performance, it is not without its issues. Compression challenges and RPM limitations can both impact the engine’s ability to deliver the kind of performance that riders are looking for. However, with proper maintenance and care, many of these issues can be addressed and overcome.
Overview of The Affected Engine Components
The S&S 124 engine has been a popular choice for those looking to upgrade their Harley-Davidson motorcycle. However, like any engine, it is not without its problems. In this section, we will take a closer look at some of the common engine component issues that can arise with the S&S 124.
Reported Camshaft Complications
One of the most common issues with the S&S 124 engine is camshaft complications. While the S&S 124 engine is designed to work with the stock Harley-Davidson camshaft, some users have reported issues with camshaft wear and tear. This can lead to a loss of power and a rough idle. Upgrading to a high-performance camshaft may solve this issue, but it is important to note that this can also lead to other complications, such as valve train problems.
Bottom End Troubles
Another common issue with the S&S 124 engine is bottom end troubles. This can include issues with the crankshaft, connecting rods, and bearings. Some users have reported issues with the crankshaft being out of balance, which can lead to vibrations and premature wear on the engine. Additionally, connecting rod failures have been reported, which can lead to catastrophic engine failure.
It is important to note that many of these issues can be avoided by properly maintaining the engine and using high-quality components. Additionally, purchasing a crate engine from a reputable manufacturer can help ensure that the engine is built to the highest standards and is less likely to experience these types of issues.
Tips and Tricks for Diagnosing Common Faults
The S&S 124 engine is known for its power and reliability, but like any other engine, it can experience faults. Here are some common faults that riders may encounter and how to diagnose them.
Troubleshooting for Low Oil Pressure
Low oil pressure is a common issue with the S&S 124 engine. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including a clogged oil filter, a faulty oil pump, or low oil level. To diagnose the problem, riders should check the oil level first. If it is low, then it may indicate a blow-by issue. Next, inspect the oil filter to see if it is excessively dirty. If it is, then it may need to be replaced. If the oil level and filter are both fine, then the issue may be with the oil pump. Riders should take their bike to a qualified mechanic to have it checked.
Tracking Down That Rattling Noise
Another common issue with the S&S 124 engine is a rattling noise. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including piston slap, worn bearings, or loose bolts. To diagnose the problem, riders should listen for the noise and try to determine where it is coming from. If it is coming from the engine, then it may indicate a problem with the pistons or bearings. If it is coming from the exhaust, then it may indicate a loose bolt. Riders should take their bike to a qualified mechanic to have it checked.
Guide to Dyno Sheet Analysis
Dyno sheets are a useful tool for diagnosing issues with the S&S 124 engine. They provide a detailed analysis of the engine’s performance and can help riders identify any potential issues. To analyze a dyno sheet, riders should look for any dips or spikes in the horsepower or torque curves. These can indicate issues with the engine’s tuning or performance. Riders should also look at the air/fuel ratio to ensure that it is within the proper range. If there are any issues with the dyno sheet, riders should take their bike to a qualified mechanic to have it checked.
Overall, the S&S 124 engine is a powerful and reliable engine, but like any other engine, it can experience faults. Riders should be aware of these common faults and how to diagnose them to ensure that their bike is running smoothly.
Preventative Measures and Maintenance To Prevent These Issues
To prevent problems with the S&S 124 engine, proper maintenance and preventative measures should be taken. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug checks are essential to ensure optimal performance and longevity of the engine.
It is also important to avoid lugging the engine, which can cause damage to the internal components. The engine should be kept over 3000 RPM when going down the road, and riders should avoid running in high gear at low speeds.
Additionally, it is recommended to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for engine break-in to prevent any potential problems. This includes slowly breaking in the engine and avoiding high RPMs during the first few hundred miles of use.
Regular inspections of the engine should be performed to identify any potential issues early on. This includes checking for oil leaks, unusual noises, and any other signs of wear or damage.
In summary, proper maintenance and preventative measures are essential to prevent problems with the S&S 124 engine. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug checks should be performed, and riders should avoid lugging the engine and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for engine break-in. Regular inspections of the engine should also be performed to identify any potential issues early on.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common issues reported with the S&S 124 engine?
The S&S 124 engine has been reported to have several issues that include piston slapping, loss of power, decreased fuel economy, and oil pressure problems. These issues often result from poor maintenance, inadequate lubrication, or improper use of the engine. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for maintenance and use to avoid these problems.
How does the S&S 124 engine’s horsepower compare to other similar motors?
The S&S 124 engine is known for its high horsepower output, which is one of the reasons it is a popular choice for custom motorcycle builds. It produces around 115 horsepower and 120 lb-ft of torque, which is comparable to other high-performance motorcycle engines in its class.
What are the best practices for maintaining oil pressure in an S&S 124?
Maintaining proper oil pressure is critical to the longevity and performance of the S&S 124 engine. It is recommended to use a high-quality synthetic oil and change it regularly, as well as regularly checking for leaks and ensuring that the oil pump is functioning properly. It is also important to avoid lugging the engine and to keep it above 3000 RPM to maintain sufficient oil pressure.
What type of transmission is recommended for use with an S&S 124 engine?
The S&S 124 engine is designed to work with a variety of transmissions, including the stock Harley-Davidson 5-speed transmission. However, to fully utilize the engine’s power and torque, it is recommended to use a heavy-duty transmission, such as a Baker 6-speed or a Rivera Primo 6-speed.
How does the reliability of S&S engines, particularly the 124 model, compare to other brands?
S&S engines are known for their reliability and durability, and the 124 model is no exception. While there have been reported issues with the engine, they are relatively rare and can often be attributed to improper use or maintenance. Overall, S&S engines are considered to be on par with other high-performance motorcycle engines in terms of reliability.
Are there any notable differences between S&S engines and Harley engines?
While S&S engines are often used as replacements for Harley-Davidson engines in custom motorcycle builds, there are some notable differences between the two. S&S engines are generally considered to be more powerful and have better performance than stock Harley engines. They also tend to be more expensive, but many riders feel that the increased performance and reliability are worth the extra cost.
