80,000 MILES and KNOCKING! - Milwaukee 8 Engine Tear Down - Kevin Baxter - Pro Twin Performance

[@rudeawakening3833]

I’ve been dealing with HD’s since the 1970’s … Panheads , shovel heads , etc . This is probably the MOST - well worded , awesome, and detailed presentation I’ve EVER SEEN !!! Thanks - I’m a subscriber now !

[@ljohnson9440]

This man needs a cable tv series. Very well spoken and detailed,hell I wanna buy a few motors ant tear them down myself.

[@LOVE-JC777]

Why? His already on screen.

[@Comm0ut]

Cable is garbage by nature. KZbin is fine. To make money on cable one has to pander to idiots/non-mechanics. Better to have videos wrenches can enjoy and everyone else can go fap to Kardashians or whatever.

[@Comm0ut]

Why cable TV? Can you not view the internet on your TV already? The internet is interactive and you can download KZbin episodes for future reference at no cost. Cable TV is for people too old to use the internet and the last few of those won't be riding in five years.

[@ihereticfringe]

Someone else said this and I concur - why doesn’t this dude have a cable tv channel? This was outstanding! Gonna be watching some more. KUDOS!

[@paulhewson4600]

Ya Kevin needs to start the Speed Channel again and put his Baxters Garage twist on it....Saturday mornings,,,

[@Comm0ut]

Because no one needs cable TV since the internet exists for convenient viewing at any time. Cable TV has zero advantage since it's target is people who don't know how to use a computer therefore aren't smart enough to spin a wrench. Cable means doing things someone elses way. Anyone who wants to watch video on their widescreen TV can effortlessly do so.

[@rebel_ltz]

Great video! And I'm glad some folks just rebuild their engines at 80k and not selling the bike the get a new one.

[@craiglawson663]

I said exactly what you wrote before I seen it. Ive spent to much time and money on my bikes just to sell them for a new one every 4-5 years.

[@51panhead51]

Things are not what they used to be .006" runout on older bikes would be criminal.i think harley say up to +.012" is acceptable.If someone with a shovel pan knuckle or flattie had that i would say they need new flywheels..Also 80 000 miles is not a long life from an engine if its well maintained and not beaten up on as this one certainly was not!!! Things are not what they used to be.Company went backwards in engines from end of evo era. Having said that the clientele that harley attracts now seem to have little respect for what is still an agricultural design.(Thats why we love em!)and 4 some reason think its fun to beat up on them.The big twin flatties in my opinion are the best bikes harley EVER made.Built even half decent they last near forever.

[@rslover65]

80k and needing a rebuild. I'd be unbelievably pissed if I spent 20k+ on a bike and it crapped out at that low mileage. Great video though. Liked the step by step disassembly.

[@frederickking1660]

Alot of guys tear them down way before 50k. The heat kills everything. They should have fans on them. I have a 2012 streetglide with nearly 70k. Replaced everything in the cam chest at 56k. Put in nice cams and now has 98.7 h.p. and 116 ftlbs of tourque. What a jump in power. Top end was not touched. Still doesn't use much oil. Maybe 1/2 quart between 3k oci

[@slyguyaction]

The way he explains everything, even a non-gearhead can understand. Great content and great channel, as always. This guy is a damn pro.

[@paulcadby6925]

Man l wish l was an apprentice working under yourself Kevin. I just learnt so much in 25 mins. Always enjoy watching you work. Greetings from Melbourne Australia 👍👍👍

[@samueljeppsen9785]

Your videos are always really good Kevin. Thanks. I have an 03, 1200 Sporty with 75K miles on it and a 2012 Dyna Superglide with 112K miles on it. Miles I put on the bikes. Both run like sewing machines. Never a wrench to the motor on either bike. I watch 2LaneLife alot. Those guys run M8's and run pretty hard. 85mph plus on Interstates. Ride 2-up and lots of luggage. Their bikes do very well. I'm impressed.

[@stevek8829]

Glad your Dyna is happy. Mine is a '13 with only 45,000, hope I get at least your miles.

[@mudnducs]

Very nice job! I love that you don’t make us wait through bolt removal but high speed thru it. Comments and possibilities are simple direct and to the point!!

[@TrustyZ900]

I love this guy. Really want to know what's going on inside my 117. Being a VStrom guy for years, this is all new territory. The only man's videos I watch from beginning to end. Super gifted individual that's unpretentious. Fascinating.

[@robbbiggs6452]

Awesome video. Just did a twin cam that seem to fit the same symptoms and found the same problems in the front cylinder and crank. Would love to work and learn in your shop. Your knowledge in these videos is really inspiring for this crazy Canuck.

[@josephcivita1450]

I have an Evo with over 100,000 miles on it. Never been apart. Last of the reliable, easy to work on Harley motors.

[@Comm0ut]

@Thomas B While no bike engine is hard to work on the garbage timing chest nonsense (purely to facilitate semi-automated engine assembly, see factory videos) HD inflicted on customers was only to save the MoCo a few dollars in assembly labor. HD stopped being a "premium" quality engine when Evo ended (and those had their share of problems).

[@BobbyTucker]

This is my first time here and I'm really impressed with your show, the way you point things out and detail everything. I'm looking for another Harley but I haven't found one yet. I'm going to sub, leave a thumbs up, and a tap on the bell, I hope to get to know more about the great bikes. Thanks for sharing.

[@tcb8295]

Thanks Kevin for this video and the great info as usual. My 17 M8 is just turning 37k miles. This guy was really doing some riding. It's awesome that he got 80k on his. Unfortunately, unable to make Sturgis, but will be heading west for work that week. Stay safe.

[@KevinBaxter]

Thank you sir. And this isnt his only bike....he rides like crazy.

[@brycebhatnagar5056]

I don't know, I have 60K on my old dyna. It just seems like with the 'future engine', 80K isn't a lot of miles.

[@dufus7396]

Im 67 been rebuilding various motorcycle engines all my life..would like you to continue a on this engine in detail an find sumise why this happened. I argue that careful assembly ,balance ,tuning and mantainence along with none abuse will give all round better service than adding after market parts. To me after market parts may attract short term performance gains but lack accountability and factory condition testing for longlivity.

[@markman7]

Phil Steiner's 8 year old Gold Wing had over 770k on it under Honda warranty when he upgraded to a new one.

[@highmilagerider1154]

Great video and good explanation. I don't understand why he keeps emphasizing that 80,000 miles is a lot of miles?? That's nothing for mileage. That's only 128,000km One of my bikes is a 1991 Goldwing GL1500 SE that has 240,000 km which is about 150,000 miles and I've done nothing to it. I haven't touched the motor, tranny or clutch. Only wearable items. I would be pissed if I bought a motorcycle and had to rebuild the motor at only 80,000 miles. IMHO, The motor and tranny on a motorcycle should last 300,000 miles or 500,000km before you even have to think of touching the motor or tranny. HD makes money selling a $45,000 touring bike in Canada and then rebuilding the motor every 3-4 years. Keep up the great videos

[@bamahi7142]

I totally agree with you. That is why I sold all my Harleys.

[@mikedunn2022]

👍

[@craiggoldstein2461]

I thought the same thing......80,000 miles is just broken in for a Goldwing. They can go 300,000 miles if properly cared for.

[@keithmoore5224]

My xs 1100 1978 did 150 000 plus choper i also had a side car outfit 100 000 plus did rebore that i ran it from spain on 3cylinders not recomended uk biker

[@jimwortham8634]

Great video thanks so much for posting Harley got here but have to tell it like it is in some brands 80,000 is not that many miles

[@51panhead51]

Rebuilt an evo engine with 250 000 miles.Bores looked good over bored to +.005" oversize .Crank pin was fine but replaced it anyway Guides were fine Valves faced up fine .Customer had maintained it well and it showed! The rocker assemblies were as clean as a whistle.Outstanding really Have another friend here has over 600 000 miles on a 1989 FXR Its getting tired (no kidding) but still goes ok,Dont believe any twin cam or M8 will do this.

[@bodge6886]

This guy is a “real”. Engineer👍

[@KevinBaxter]

thank you sir.

[@aussie_xsf]

The way you explain things is easy to understand, thank you and keep em coming !

[@dennistaylor6486]

I have a 2006 roadking and has never been torn down and it has 91,000 miles.Runs like new!

[@mitchelldarnell5334]

Hi Kevin, I’ve been missing you for a spell. I realize you have a lot work going on. I’m close to 79 years old and the intense heat is knocking me down a bit. Plus a very low heart rate in the 40’s and 50’s!! Take care of your health and be careful at Sturges👍🤠

[@KevinBaxter]

Thank you sir.

[@ta392srtchallenger5]

Mitchell take care of yourself brother we will keep you in our prayers. Sincerely, Kevin and Julia Shelton.😎❤👍🏻

[@chrismorneau8188]

My 72 cb750 is all original motor. One owner, my dad. Then me. First bike I was on at 6 yrs old with my dad. I’m 41. Not a sound except the good ones. Oil is clean pans clean. Just did big tune up. Lash was fine. Plugs good. Best bike ever made reliablility wise

[@kenmouser5585]

Kevin loved the tear down please show the build you do on this thanks

[@KevinBaxter]

im not impressed either...but its not as bad as some ive seen with much lower miles. None has been spent other than cam plate and pump.

[@gregoryranlett7868]

Are there more "robust" connecting-rod races out there?

[@larrys.3992]

Thanks Kevin! Have a safe trip.

[@KevinBaxter]

thank you sir

[@thomaswild9044]

A good mechanic can go by feel, sight, and smell. He surely does this.

[@davec7]

It looks like the hot spot on the cylinder was on the spark plug side. With a worn rod bearing the power stroke probably caused the piston to tilt sideways creating excessive friction and noise. 🤷‍♂️

[@johnsb1550]

I don't know, seems like HD has made a turn back to the AMF days when quality didn't matter. I own 3 of them with the latest one costing almost 50K out the door. Now I have to worry about it blowing up because it seems like it wasn't designed correctly and tested thoroughly enough before the dealer accepted the 50K. Well, I guess they keep people who do care employed, like you, but damn! Thank God I have a lifetime power train warranty on it! Keep up the great work 👍

[@KevinBaxter]

thanks John

[@great5333]

If you remember 99-2005 the twin am was having all sorts of problems as well. It happens with every new engine they put out. No different with the m8 sadly

[@MrHarleynut]

I trust my 100 hp shovelhead to take me anywhere. It scares me to take my pos twin cam 10 miles from home.

[@frederickking1660]

You don't have to rebuild them. You can run them til they grenade. Everything is a wear item at some point. We are spoiled today with how long engines last. In the 70s by the time you paid off a vehicle in 4 years it was junk. Now they can easily last 20 years. I agree that harley could build them better. The heat issue is a big problem. My 12' came with a oil cooler so maybe that helped mine survive. I really want to put fans on the jugs. These summers are so hot and getting in traffic is a killer.

[@Jp1970-pw1ld]

What is a reasonable life expectancy on the m8 left bone stock? Yes I know “it depends” Even with that out of the way, there is still an average. Assume all maintenance done per schedule and no hot rodding.

[@Big.Ron1]

Hi Kevin, be safe and have fun at Sturgis. I wish I could be there but still recovering after surgery in June. I enjoyed this tear down and hope to send mine too you soon. Thank you!

[@KevinBaxter]

all the best with your continued recovery. thank you sir! see you then!

[@rickbush2914]

Kevin I really enjoy your videos and thanks to you, I have learned a great deal about my own motor. If you are interested, I would like to see a video from you about riding practices that are good for the longevity of a Harley motor as well as those that might cause premature deterioration. This could include shifting rpms and how that can affect compensators; how cruising rpms affect engine heat and cylinder head pressures; fuel choices including ethanol and it's effects. With your knowledge and experience, I am certain that your comments would be very helpful to your subscribers.

[@ridethepace6005]

I'd love to hear this also.

[@jeffreyengle2762]

Yup… interested here too

[@fireball1322]

I want to see the cases split and the rods removed, the rod bearings and races themselves and the crank pin. Is there going to be a follow up and reassembly shown on this M8 V Twin engine? I'd suspect the engine has been run low on oil, excessive traffic slow riding/idling (think Myrtle Beach main drag traffic), or excessive rpms or a combo of several or all? Might be time for H-D to think about piston oil squirters? You need to check out the oil pump very good too.

[@1custom1234]

My Twin cam 103 is a great motor. 48-51 miles per gallon usually. If I ride easy I can get as much as 55 mpg. Enough power for me to do long rides in the hills.

[@charleswilburn7656]

That motor can last you 100s of thousands of miles if maintained properly. And maybe some luck.

[@Imachowderhead]

I have a 14 road king with the 103, I run redline in all 3 holes every 5 k. my mechanic said hes seen 103's with 150k on them.

[@markmcintosh7095]

@@Imachowderhead I'm a big Redline fan also.

[@marccopoloo966]

@@Imachowderhead Twin cams are very good engines👍 I use Amsoil 20w50 in engine case And primary And 75w90 in gear case What you think?

[@Myrune1]

It was cool watching you tear this down and give the descriptions of what you were seeing. Excellent job!! That being said, 80,000 miles? That's the break-in period on my Goldwing.

[@frenchonion4595]

Probably due to it being a vtwin and the vibrations. The goldwings 6 cylinder is super smooth

[@ClaudioVolber]

Honda lifespan>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>Harley lifespan.

[@terryduncan5718]

I'm a Harley rider but l must admit the Goldwing is the BEST touring bike out there...but you really can't compare the 2 motors....different animals

[@frankmarkovcijr5459]

Frankly I am appalled that such a brand new motor would go out with 80,000 miles on it my last Beamer had half a million on it before the car took it out I have a half a million miles on my Triumph TR6 that I've had for 40 years I have a 99 Sportster 883 that has 350 thousand miles on it engine runs good my Ural sidecar outfit at 40,000 miles and I put on it in the six years that I've had it it was number three out of the four bikes that I had on the road for many years now that I am not working I'm retired I don't need to have spare motorcycles to make sure I get to work I'm sure I will be able to have many more miles on my you're all I've just done basic maintenance to it the two-piece driveshaft kid, part no Harley Shop with touch it even though it was a simple job so I had to do it myself with the owner's manual some help from the dealer on the phone and my buddies garage around the corner from my house Easter morning the cylinder broke from the base on the way to services bought a new cylinder piston rings gaskets and seals and just put it back together and it's fine and dandy Harley's last good motor with the Evolution motor the Evolution motor powered Sportster is there a most reliable bike probably why it's discontinued you would think on a big twin that cost so bloody much that the motor would last forever but then it's not an airhead BMW

[@jeremycolston8383]

Just picked up a 07 fxdl with 70k on it. It seems very quiet and smooth, yeah it’s stock, just slip ons. I’m wanting to have it built over the winter. Saving my coin in case I have to go And replace crank, but I won’t know until I get it checked. I have extremely basic mechanical skills. Anyway. Awesome video and enjoy your content. Keep the shiny side up

[@mikedunn2022]

To everyone in the comments yes this guy is a good mechanic explains what’s going on very well but 80,000 miles is NOT a lot of miles Harley Davidson should be embarrassed by this

[@ejdtm]

What do you consider “running warm”? I average 295° when it’s 80° outside. I’m at 80,000 on my m8. Did 124 at 60.k. Typically getting 11oz out of crank position sensor at oil change. I have first gen S&S oil pump.

[@gregoryranlett7868]

11 oz. of oil in the sump of a "dry sump" engine is a lot!

[@adminadmin9997]

Any update on how many miles was last recorded on your m8

[@frankmarkovcijr5459]

295 is ridiculously hot need to get some love jugs cool down the oil that oil temperature is hot even for synthetic oil you should take whatever measures it would need to reduce your oil temperature to be low 237 degrees 80000 MI between rebuilds is ridiculous

[@frankbutaric3565]

80k on a modern production engine with a knock is pretty poor reliability. I just sold a 76 Guzzi LeMans 1 with 140k miles and the lower end was perfect. One piston melted due to poor fueling but was the worst of it. Replaced one valve as it was bent. That’s it. This on a 45 year old bike.

[@DirtRidingLarry]

It also depends how the bike was ridden. 80k hard miles is more wear than 140k easy miles

[@frankbutaric3565]

@@DirtRidingLarry the LeMans was one of the fastest sport bike of its time. It was ridden as it should have been as I know the previous owner. Poor engineering is just that. I cant comment on the Harley usage as I don’t have the history but 80k miles on a modern engine is poor reliability. Also in the video it is mentioned the bike has been taken care of and not abused.

[@rickyparrish2570]

Harleys are junk. They refuse to innovate bc the old heads think technology is scary.

[@dakarpsi]

80k on a Harley is pretty impressive, they usually blow up after 40k

[@LTVoyager]

I agree. My BMW is approaching 100,000 miles and runs better than ever. The K1200 engine is known to run 200,000+ with ease. 80,000 is break-in mileage on a modern engine. Unfortunately, chooses to build their current engines using 100 year old designs. Putting two large air cooled cylinders one behind the other is a recipe to cook the rear cylinder just as we see here. That is an unfortunate design decision, but it is what Harley chose to do so Harley owners simply have to live with short engine life to get the look and feel they desire. That is their choice and I am fine with that, but I choose a modern liquid cooled engine that avoids these problems and will run 200 to 300,000 miles with ease. Different strokes for different folks.

[@kerrylewis2581]

Hope to see my high mileage Twin Cam made famous in a few years. I should have 150,000 miles by the end of next season. Then skunkity, skunk, skunk it!

[@Patrick_B687-3]

I want to hear all about this bike. And I will surely be watching for the Skunkerize for sure.

[@61espo]

What year Twin Cam??

[@jonnymac8925]

Might be a dumb question, but what does skunking mean? Lol

[@kill_orb_killed7abc749]

@@jonnymac8925 Kevin's garage has a program called skunkworks. They rebuild the engine however the customer wants it. IE high performance or longevity

[@57torg]

Thanks Kevin for another great educational video. And perfect for me because I ride a 2018 107 myself. But mine is all original with a little over 10 and a half thousand miles on it. I learned from one of your other videos to check if I have an engine sumping issue by removing my bearing sensor and measuring the oil that drains. I only got about 2 and a half ounces out of it so I feel safe assuming I have no sumping issue so far.

[@darrell3368]

Thank you Kevin and Gods blessings for you all and be safe going to Sturges

[@rsbharley4766]

Excellent tear down Kevin. Very interesting, I am leaning lots. Don't worry about not getting videos out, customers pay the bills. We will all be here when you have the time to post. Keep up the great work, take care. Cheers

[@KevinBaxter]

Right on. Thank you sir!

[@georgespain6121]

Hope this is an isolated case because many individuals are building M8’s with high torque numbers on stock cranks. This would definitely lead to short engine life. Great content, keep the videos coming.

[@KevinBaxter]

so much of that depends on the riders right hand.

[@rebel_ltz]

Absolutely. Weekend mechanics throwing on 124-151 kits to the stock bottom end then complain about the quality of these engines. It's the same as the wheelie guys with the "bad" fork seals.

[@markman7]

​@@KevinBaxter and the tuner

[@Dubhghaill]

Thanks Kev, its good to see ya again...

[@KevinBaxter]

thank you jo. good to be back.

[@spaceflight1019]

When engineers redesigned the pistons to eliminate the side skirts in line with the wrist pins they must have believed that the loading on the pistons was only front-to-back. Harley riders like to lug the engine to get that low end torque, but that just increases the combustion chamber pressure and increases the chances of detonation. Detonation is like a hammer blow to the piston and everything connected to it, like wrist pins and rod bearings. Repeated enough times, it will pound flat spots on rod bearing balls and increases clearances on wrist pins. When that happens the piston will wobble in the cylinder bore. Nothing good will come of this. Now... I put 50,000 miles on my 1200 Sportster in the first three years. It currently has 82,000 miles on it. Most of those were highway miles, with the rpm above 2000. My bike has a tach and I use my gears to keep the rpms above 2000, because below that number the engine will pound the rubber mounting when you try to accelerate. Depending upon how bad the rod bearing is at operating temperature, it could be freezing the engine and the momentum of the bike, transmitted through the drivetrain, breaks it loose again and again.

[@aninja7628]

I wish I could put in a few days as your shadow in the shop during these breakdowns, good stuff my brother 👍🏻

[@jeffhawkins711]

I have a 02 88 twin cam with 70k on the clock. Just put cam chest , hypo oil.pump , new lifters and bolt in Screamin Eagle 203 cam. Just trying to keep it dependable. Anyway my run out on this bike is only 2k I thought that was pretty good all things considered. I bought the bike last summer with 68k on it so I feel like it was taken care of well.

[@dtork47]

Always helpful Kevin thanks. Have fun in SD, be safe.

[@Greenjeans2020]

Had the same issue with my 2002 Twin Cam. Front rod bearing and excessive piston slap most likely due to the bad rod bearing. This was at about 72,000 miles.

[@exupakias]

My Electra 2001 says 120.000miles and still working fine without rebuild, can you explain to me why?

[@bradjacobs1844]

It’s the “luck of the draw” with a Harleys. I’ve gotten over 65,000 miles each on my last two Harleys with no issue. I am a mechanic, though, so I know how to treat and maintain a bike. My current 103 Road King will be sold @ 100,000 miles and I expect the next 35,000 miles to be reliable. I’ve so far only spent $14 on repairs in 67,000 miles. Not bad, I’d say.

[@michaelreed9805]

Great video Kevin. Once again without all the bullshit. you get right to the heart of f the problem diagnosing every step of the way without taking an hour to do it. Good stuff brother!

[@jackcook4772]

I have a Honda 02 750 spirit with 88,000 miles . It still runs good and I have always run it hard. It has been rejeted and runs 12.30 second quarter mile and gets 65 mpg.

[@joeblow5037]

I call b ess a 750 spirit would NEVER do a 12.3 sheesh try low 15's

[@ErickDelgado-ss6wd]

Very good video I just got 2023 fat bob, 114. What kind of oil do you recommend me to keep that engine in good shape . Thank you very much.

[@cliff9057]

Good find on the bad area. Like watching your videos.

[@randyluna4905]

Don’t know how big of a pain it was to make this video, but it was awesome to watch!!

[@bigdmister]

Isn’t the Carbon on the piston, from the closed crank oil system that causes oil into piston to follow EPA rules Harley must comply with! Many riders are now installing bypass breathers in response.

[@TheRealCreepinogie]

Engines really shouldn't need a complete tear down after 80,000 miles. HD should get their act together.

[@bradhardy2629]

that'll never happen i've seen old Gold wings with way over 100k and NEVER BEEN APART .

[@GuiltySiNz]

And no body modifying an old mans Goldwing either lol

[@chuckfullington8389]

Great Video and info as always. Is that a 107 or 114? Did it run the original factory oil pump for 70,000 before upgrading? If so which of the four HD oil pumps was in it? I know to many questions.

[@chuckfullington8389]

Sorry I missed the typed info that it was an 107.

[@eyeballengineering7007]

That's an s&s oil pump he pulled out of it.

[@raybrdjr]

WOW, I HAVE 80K ON MY 2017 road glide special right now. haven't had any issues yet. I will be headed to Sturgis on my Road Glide S from Mobile, AL. hopefully I will meet you in sturgis to discuss my performance rebuild when she's ready! GREAT VIDEO!

[@KevinBaxter]

Hope to see you there sir! Save travels!

[@DG-fm6ti]

My friend. What oil are you using ? Dealer serviced ? Or amsoil ?

[@raybrdjr]

@@DG-fm6ti im just seeing your question. I've used amsoil, super tech from walmart , valvoline and mobil 1(all synthetic). I don't dog my bike but will skin er back whenever the need arises..haha! I change every 5k and other 2 holes ever 10k. I do all my own services. I just changed my drivebelt which wasn't hard but it was timely being a first for me and saved me $1,300. Other than the belt breaking I haven't had one issue yet with my M8 (stage 1 with headers and dynojet tuner) I have 87k on it as we speak. I get about 24k miles off of a dunlop American elites. the front tire I know I have 42k miles on it because I didn't have to change it when I changed the back tire last time.

[@michaelsweeney6596]

Great video thanks, I have 40k on my 2019 sport glide softial so I will keep an eye out for it

[@kennethperian4370]

Great job again showing telling about them motorcycle motors , keep up the good work have a great day and see ya next time see ya bye.

[@unclemikeb]

This was a really well done video. Many thanks for posting this, it was really informative. It was awesome to see the four valve heads. I wonder if there a heads like that for my old 88 twin cam. Considering the high lift cam and the high mileage in a short time span, I'm suspecting the owner frequently has wide open throttle bursts and if he cannot find ethanol free gas, the ethanol is causing some of the problems you are seeing in the cylinder. Ethanol introduces extra oxygen directly to the cylinder which can raise the temperature of combustion. Some of that crud on top the pistons might be due to the oil re-circulation system that puts oil vapor into the intake if he didn't install a vent bi-pass system. I'm glad he caught the noise in time to prevent a catastrophic failure. My 2000 twin cam 88 now has 88,000 miles but for the most part, those have been leisurely miles. Plus I use Amsoil full synthetic and change it at 5,000 miles. I watch for ethanol free gas. It has only had ethanol for about four tank fulls. My engine is as quiet as a friends identical engine with only 15,000 miles. I had the dealer install a screaming eagle vent system before I bought the bike new. So it has not had oil vapor being introduced at the air filter. But that might explain why the back wheel gets cruddy so easily. LOL

[@dufus7396]

Im wondering if the after market oil pump overperformed the standard lubrication system..eg overode oil passage capacity with leakage at hot spots. This is a common phenomen in older 2 stroke designs. Con rod drillings being over pressurised excuding oil from piston gudgeons.

[@joshuahawkins514]

U got information and I like the tear downs it's always good to see it first thank you keep it up

[@vangoodwin7335]

Too much great info! I don't work on modern bikes because of computers and sensors. I also know my place and do not dive this deep into engines. I have never complained about a rebuild shops bill. Between education, equipment costs and replacement parts cost you folks definitely earn your dollars. Thank You You are in my prayers Hoka Hey

[@brandot.7466]

Hi Kevin hope your doing good, id like to know which oil this guy used and how many miles between changes. Rock on brother thanks for all the great videos.

[@greggszakmeister4679]

Harley Syn 3 for 70k then new cam, pump and plate switched to Amsoil with 5000 mile intervals

[@ihateemael]

@@greggszakmeister4679 80 k miles . . . wow that's some riding. Looks like that Syn3 did a fantastic job. The inside of your engine looks great.

[@eugeniustheodidactus8890]

What can I typically expect for *engine work* down the road with my stock M8 which I generally "baby" and always service at the dealership? _I bought this 2019 FLHR in February 2021 with 150 miles on it and now has 13k miles. I will easily ride 25k miles this year. Dealership says it will "go forever" if I take care of it._ Lol.

[@dionmoore879]

That's like a drill Sargent saying "your recruiter told you What?!

[@alien_man1669]

I got a 92' Honda nighthawk cb750 with 86k miles and it's starting to show it's age. I got it 3 years ago and it was at 40k. I've used the hell out of it as a daily driver and the oil pressure light just came on. Dims with revs but went off after I hit a bump. So gotta wait and see if it comes back on but at 86k I've gotten my money out of it

[@ChefPelle]

A bad rod bearing @ 80K miles on an Evo would be surprisingly bad. Maybe even on a TC. Not on an M8.

[@alandaluschoppersbyangelor621]

Magnífico trabajo. Muchas gracias por sus vídeos. Gran saludo desde España. Olé😉 maestro !!!

[@lindsaymillard2881]

Hey Kevin love your work. I just bought a 2021 fatboy with the 114 m8. Just put 300 k's on it and it has zero oil on the dip stick. Oil was just over half way when cold. Checked when I got home from a ride and no oil. Does puff out a bit of blue smoke when you start it then it's fine. Any ideas why the oil would disappear so quickly? It only has 17,625 k's on it and it runs fine.

[@michaelmorgan5714]

I know it's summer and I should wait till winter to view all these new videos, but when I read the title I could not wait. As usual It was worth the loss of a half hours sleep. Thanks for another great video. Mike from Maryland

[@61espo]

Thank you for the excellent videos Kevin!

[@KevinBaxter]

My pleasure!. Thank you!

[@gregoryh9442]

Many times I was the one to get a part for a stranded friend for his TC….on my Shovel.

[@bikerguy5829]

80,000 mile and it's shot? My Gold Wing wasn't even broken it at 80,000!

[@ericv79flh]

(No one cares about your goldwing)

[@joshszydel8202]

115,000 on my wing. Friend has over 600,000 on his 02.

[@gregkistner1955]

Glad you got to the bottem of this mystery!

[@jimkillen1065]

Well I bought a used bad idea on my part stock , 12 street glide with 43k or close to that miles on it . Checked out from a local Harley dealer . I don't have a lot of faith in that now . Took the bike for a road trip and rod started knocking after I bought it . Never again ..I have a SS 124 in it now . I personally don't want a stock Harley engine. Lifters, crank assembly. Oil pump , ect .. a m8 with 80k miles is amazing really

[@yoshit9819]

Geez. 80k miles. And issues already.

[@russellfederici865]

Thank you , I have a 2006 Night Rod , never ran the same since it went too the dealership, I’ve had it from new , from the response I’ve gotten , they don’t like the bike , I get the feeling there prodigious mechanics 🤷🏼‍♂️

[@Comm0ut]

Neat expedient engine support. Rather than tie up bench space I buy cheap Harbor Freight engine stands then weld up simple engine adapters to their heads. Being able to spin motorcycle engines makes working on them MUCH easier for the same reasons car guys use them for engines and transmissions. It's easy to cut down engine stands for table or bench top use if floor space is an issue or to replace their cheap little wheels with superior quality casters at all three or four points so ya can push them in any direction.

[@michaelcartwright2448]

I keep hearing the phrase "run too hot" in many of your videos. What is an example? 230,240,250 on oil temp or? I have a 2007 Heritage 28k miles, TC96 w/stage2 torque cam, V&H long shots, FI, Dynoed/tuned by ECM flash. My oil temp stays 220-230F during normal operation. Added man-o-war comp, Barnett 10 plate carbon clutch and Hayden tensioner (just finished today-wow is it smooth now). Thanks in advance!

[@KevinBaxter]

thats a decent oil temp. i shoot for 300 to 320 deg measured at the base of the plug on the head.

[@jammer_6245]

Great to have you back!! Know your busy...that time of the year...

[@KevinBaxter]

Thank you sir. It's the season for sure.

[@hoss6048]

This was interesting to watch...thanks for sharing your expertise !

[@lovingmylifeasIage6741]

Excellent job. Very interesting. I doubt that I will ever get that amount of milage on my 2017 Street Glide. But good to know.

[@adminadmin9997]

What I want to know is what was his oil change intervals?

[@gynot1357]

Great Content! In solving the noise mystery🍻🤙🏼

[@ralphhanks5869]

Hey Kevin do you think the rod bearings was bad because they don't use timken bearings in m8 allowing the crank to slide side to side thus putting more stress on the bearings

[@petrosspetrosgali]

Tear down should be hands free. Just let the engine run and it’ll vibrate itself apart.👍🏼

[@welderlogic1806]

Most sensible comment I've seen

[@joemesserhd1]

Thanks for the kool video Kevin…. I have 2019 114” Ultra Limited… only seven thousand miles because I work all the time… would love to have your shop install me a new oil pump etc… thanks again from Lincolnton North Carolina 👍

[@KevinBaxter]

Thank you sir! If you like, send me an email to [e-mail] We can get parts ordered for you then schedule it in once parts arrive.

[@joemesserhd1]

@@KevinBaxter ok thank you 🇺🇸

[@FandFcustomcarts]

Lot of miles for Harley , not for Hondas, lmao he knows not to push it hard... horrible how disposable are Harleys. I work hard for my money and for me smart purchase is something that will last and to last has to be low maintenance , everything on a Harley is disposable from suspension to cooling to rear belt , but remember you guys know to not push it hard LOL , my respect to you for doing this video and been a realistic mechanic, now you Harleys remember not to pushed hard and 80000 miles is about it LMAO!. Got a friend with a Harley engine replacement just after 40000 miles and another one with clutch replacement just about 20000 miles ,i will never ever buy a Harley and they don't ride nice as some Hondas, actually can't even compared a newer goldwing or even a ctx1300, my dad been a mechanic will toll me if I loose my mind to purchase a disposable bike.

[@zonktified1247]

Another great info and experience laden video Kevin. To be able to shadow you for a month would be worth it's weight in gold!

[@robertrosson1990]

Great information.My question is in a better choice to rebuild that motor or would out be a better choice to just buy a new motor.After all the cost for parts and labor.Is it a better option to get it rebuilt or just replace with a new crate motor enstead.

[@greggszakmeister4679]

I chose having Kevin do my engine with expectations of having a better finished product than new H-D. Harley has very loose build specs that won’t last as long as a blueprinted engine. Harley has my other M8 apart for warranty engine work at 20 k miles. Bad pistons and cylinders

[@hauntedmoodylady]

I absolutely know that cost accounting is 'boring' compared to burning up the highway on a MC. Regardless, a cost accountant would measure things is cost per unit: square foot, widgets processed, or produced, mean miles/time between rebuilt. I'm fully aware BMW's are high priced, but this explains why they are not really expensive..

[@daledale8431]

What is the cause of the excess fuel consumtion? Tune?

[@Dubhghaill]

maybe , ..the extra load from the shitty big end bearing coursing drag plus the piston slap,blow by and so motor getting hot so more fuel to help it run cooler

[@KevinBaxter]

The tune. He did say the map that was put in with the cam 10,000 miles ago killed his gas mileage.

[@warricknorris5034]

Kevin. Love your stuff. Just a query could the EITMS (back cylinder not firing) be a contributing factor to the issues regarding the condition of the front cylinder as during idle only the front cylinder is firing which may possibly be a factor as a result of a change in the balance of the motor? Food for thought. Warrick & Steve (From Down Under).

[@KevinBaxter]

that only happens when the engine is overheating. the heat would cause more damage than an imbalance. i never run it on a properly tuned engine.

[@dennisberg570]

Wow ! Very well done , thanks Kevin , I'm a fan .

[@tomchristian4304]

Always love watching your videos. Very interesting and informative.

[@gregoryranlett7868]

Greetings Kevin, I'm glad the videos are back, and I look forward to meeting you on Monday, August 16th. I just received a phone call from the shipper and my trike has arrived at your shop!

[@KevinBaxter]

Thank you sir! That is correct. Calling you shortly.

[@gregoryranlett7868]

Hello Kevin, thank you for contacting me and checking the trike out. I do hope you can meet me at your shop on Monday the 16th to discuss the build (I have a lot to talk with you about!).

[@houseofstylz]

Great to see you again.

[@KevinBaxter]

Thank you sir.