Installing a $59 Knock Off CV Carb On a Softail Just for Fun

[@TheRealChetManley]

The reason those screws are always stripped on those carbs is because they're not phillips screws. They're JIS. It's very close to phillips but its actually slightly different. JIS is Japanese Industry Standard. Phillips will work, but its not a perfect fit and its easy to strip them out.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

Cool piece of tech knowledge! Thanks for that!!

[@vintageharleysrevived]

So, it is like the British Standard? Something exclusive to Japan? A hold over from the isolation of WW2? Just thinking out loud here....

[@old_shupshe]

@@vintageharleysrevived If it's from Japan and has cross head screws, they are JIS. I use JIS drivers for Phillips head screws because JIS drivers are designed to hold under torque. While Phillips are actually designed to cam out when they hit torque limits. This is what causes them to wear out and strip screws.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

I will put that in my toolbox of knowledge! Thank you so much for the informative comment!! ​@@old_shupshe

[@tomdillon6758]

Even with the JIS screwdriver, the bowl screws are insanely tight, and the screws are soft.

[@goldendredger]

My son did the carb conversion on a 1998 FI Road glide. Pulled all the injection junk off did the Chinese carb and a quality name brand electronic ignition system. The friggin bike fired right up and runs perfectly. Took it for a ride and we were in shock as it gained some HP and really woke the bike up. Definitely was a win all around. Still running great a year later in a month it's been the year since conversion. Hard to beat the price on these carbs and performance is there. Even if it was worn out every few years and needs a replacement. Who cares buy another Chinese carb and keep on going. But so far it's great and still is!

[@vintageharleysrevived]

I just had a last contact me to do this very thing on a 2000 Ultra! I was thinking about doing a video on it. The bike has been sitting under a garage over hanging covered by a tarp for years. A little out of my wheel house, I think it will break my lift!! Would you be willing to share info with me , if I decide to do it?

[@goldendredger]

@@vintageharleysrevived yes no problem. It's pretty darn easy to pull off. Don't even have to remove the computer. Everything still works on the bike this way. Lights ect. Just unplug the fuel injection harness and put the new ignition in and a new intake manifold and the carb. After all was done of course the red check engine light was on on the dash. Of course you removed all the stock ignition and injection stuff. But pop the dash up and remove the bulb for that. But yes any questions let me know. We can email if needed.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

My Email is on my Channel Page, if you would reach out to me, just put "1998 FL Carb" in the Subject line. I will save your Email and reach out to you with any questions, thanks so much!!

[@VR-mm4ys]

Absolutely! It doesn't need to say mo-co to be good, they import alot of their parts anyway.

[@bm7760]

Interesting. I resist Chinese stuff as it doesn't seem to last. Japanese, no problem. I try not to be a sucker for marketing too. It'll have you believe any old nonsense just to jack-up the price

[@shaneconrad7816]

I put one of these $55 EVO CV carb on my 1975 shovelhead. After jetting thing runs perfect. Easy start good idle and smooth power curve. 195 main jet, 50 pilot jet and two washers under the metering rod. Gets 38 mpg and plugs are light brown color. Couldn’t be happier with how it runs.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

Thanks for weighing in on this! I am having a similar long term experience. My experience putting these CV Carbs on Shovelheads and Ironheads has been very positive, with similar results!

[@shaneconrad7816]

@ I should have added that motor has an Andrews HB cam and 10:1 pistons the stock points ignition. All gearing is stock except the rear sprocket which is 45 tooth. The cam and compression really helps the torque at mid rpm’s that the sprocket gives at freeway speeds. These carbs may be one of the best upgrades for a motor if setup correctly. And the price is right. Only issue was the accelerator pump. Out of the box had a very weak squirt. Dropped the bowl and looking inside, I pressed down on the diaphragm. There was gas bypassing through a small hole drilled into the cast passage in the bottom of the bowl for the squirt. I plugged this with a dab of JB weld and that fixed the weak squirt. Crisp off idle with no lean popping. Have no idea why the hole was drilled in the passage.

[@Springercycles]

I've had a Chinese carb on my lawn mower for 3yrs and have no issues. They wanted 119$ at the parts store for a new carb or I buy a Chinese carb for 12$. So I bought the Chinese one. And no issues. It's hard to believe but it's working.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

The manufacturing quality of these has certainly come a long way. Thanks for the comment!!!

[@tompetry8589]

Same here. Chinese carb on my old Honda mower and runs perfect.

[@kman-mi7su]

I did the same with a fuel pump on my bike, bought a cheap Chinese knock off from Scamazon. 4 years later it still runs flawless.

[@Mr-ue2ul]

I used a knockoff carb on my American da100 model plane motor. Runs perfect and 6 times cheaper. Been in use 5 yrs so far

[@nounoufriend1442]

Fitted £8 Chinese carb on genny ,they even copied the Made in Japan cast on carb body !

[@jamessouthworth1699]

I always replace the bowl screws with Allen head screws or hex head screws.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

That solves an ongoing problem for good 👍

[@erwinvb70]

Allen is the way to go, you will never strip those, unless you mix up metric and SAE

[@12babyapes59]

Thats what I did also.

[@coco-te1op]

I really enjoyed watching this . . . I've just put sudco kiehins on one of my bikes. . .amazing at a fraction of the cost. I loved it when you turned your cap front to back before your test run. You meant business ! 😊 thanks

[@vintageharleysrevived]

Thank you for the comment! The Carb continues to perform beyond expectations. Surprising for such a low price! Have a great day!

[@bushythebird]

Keihin carbs and Mikuni carbs are Japanese. as such, they were made with JIS screws. (Japanese Industrial Standard). They look like a phillips, but they are not. Honestly, I believe anything that looks like a phillips on any given bike is probably JIS. Invest in a set of JIS screwdrivers. You will be amazed at how well they lock in, almost like they were designed for it. It's even better if you get JIS drivers that were made in Japan.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts! It's always great to have fellow bike enthusiasts who understand the importance of using the right tools for the job. That said, I have had no issues removing the JIS screws with a crispy new chinese phillips! I think the new Chinese carb is just standard phillips too, lol!

[@raymondo162]

yeh but is that relevant ?? i thought hd was mainly made in taiwan ??

[@MickH60]

@@raymondo162 JIS screwdrivers are the BEST you can buy, you'd have to be a blithering fool to strip any screw with a JIS screwdriver. 100% relevant if you've ever used them...

[@colemandeitz7302]

Anything from over their is actually JIS

[@TylerMac-x4z]

I’ve been running a Mikuni HSR on my custom Evo. I recently purchased the $100 Mikuni Chinese clone from Amazon and I have no complaints. The $100 clone is better made, better looking, polished, brass fittings, full jet kit, gasket kit, filters, hose, cleaning kit. If you’re having any issues with your Mikuni or considering buying a rebuild kit, just buy the hundred dollar clone. At the very least you’ll have a fully functional carburetor with all the replacement parts brand new. I took my original and put it in the parts box. My bike has never run so smoothly with this new clone and ultimate ignition.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

That is certainly my experience as well with the Keihin. Thank you for chiming in with that great info!!

[@martinkeet8373]

Tell us about the ignition please

[@twowheels2604]

@@martinkeet8373ultima

[@Sgtyork488]

Nice, I’m working on my 96 softail,and I got a couple of these carbs, just like em, really nice to see them work, I’m addressing some wire issues, and..decided to go through the bike this winter for

[@vintageharleysrevived]

I am having continued good luck with these knock off carbs. I have put them on older bikes as well with a few modifications and they are working well. Good luck on your bike, let me know how that carb works out!!

[@TepcoCycleRepair]

The green in the carb is from the brass jets and water. Aluminum will just corrode white, think of the statue of Liberty. Brass has copper in it, like the statue and turns green with water that this crappy ethanol fuel attracts. Wrench on my friend!

[@vintageharleysrevived]

This is great tech info, I love this stuff! Thank you for this comment! Wrench On! to you as well!!

[@marccastro9911]

Yup. Put an Amazon carb ($60) on my 1200 Sporty. Runs like a champ.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

I know the feeling!!

[@browngreen933]

Best illustration yet how badly HD rips off customers.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

Sad but true. They charge a lot for parts, apparel, accessories and yes motorcycles. A new Street glide is nearly 30k, I looked when I priced a new Carb. I suppose they charge what people will pay. Not me, but other people.

[@davidevelyn530]

Sad. Way too much markup.

[@jasonshortphd]

Great video. Was just thinking about this for a 92 that the carb never sets correctly. I think I will go for it now.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

This is the link to the carb and choke cable I used used. (I am not an Amazon affiliate) Just so you get the same one I got. There has been discussions about some being better than others and mine was a good one. Good luck! CV40 Carburetor Replacement for... www.amazon.com/dp/B09QKY1QHJ?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share KIPA Carburetor Choke Cable for... www.amazon.com/dp/B08JZ52Q8P?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

[@morningstarx5340]

The bar setup on that bike is perfect That bike is sick af

[@vintageharleysrevived]

Thanks for your comment! I took a lot of time to decide on how to set it up beginning with lowering the bike and choosing the seat, then the choice of handlebar to eliminate the stock hand control clutter and shoulder height hand position. It took some time but it is a pleasure to ride! Thanks again! Take Care!

[@SaddleTrampTV]

A few years ago, I fought and fought with what I thought were intake leaks on my 76 sportster only to eventually find out that it was the carburetor body itself that was giving me the run around. Never knew that was thing thing until then.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

It is so true! I have fought with that myself and realized the body itself gets worn and leaks vacuum into the air/fuel mixture making it lean out. The sportsters are temperamental (I think) because they were Harley's performance bikes. Keep safe and Thanks for the great comment!!

[@vintageharleysrevived]

Thank you for the reminder! It’s easy to forget about those smaller components, but they really can make a huge difference in performance. Your insight is much appreciated!

[@GeorgeEdmonds-v7e]

Even if it only lasts a few years at the price you are way ahead of the game.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

I agree, it continues to perform beyond my expectations! Thanks for the comment!

[@corydallas7279]

Totally agree with you. I’ve been having issues with my old Keihin carburetor. Rebuilt it several times but it just wouldn’t idle right. Took a chance on Amazon and it’s really paid off. Had to buy different throttle cables cuz the travel was a little shorter on the new Amazon cv carburetor. No problems and fired right up. Side by side. It’s almost the same carburetor.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

I didn't have the issue with the throttle cables, mine worked like normal. So far the results continue to be good! Many others have had similar results. A few have had some duds, returned and got another without issue. Differences in Quality Control in manufacturing? Anyway, I have a 100 mile "Stress Test" video coming out on October 25 @ 4:45pm EST USA. Check it out and throw me a comment! Thank you for reaching out to me! TTYL!

[@CaffeineThrottle]

The 48 slow jet helped you the most. My '92 EVO always needed half choke all day just to idle. When I redid mine I talked to an old school Harley wrench his advice, 48 slow jet ,3 turns on the idle mixture and go as big as you can on main jet til it wants to bog down on quick acceleration then back it off one size, ended up selecting a 180. One thing I'll mention I did change my emulsion tube, upon examination it was extremely pitted and rough inside. I purchased one from CV performance along with a James accelerator pump spring and diaphragm.Mine was not supple any longer. Hit the starter once on full choke fired right up , slight choke for less than a minute,then no choke for the first time since I bought the bike. Those sizes are definitely the correct stuff bike just purrs.👍👏👏👏

[@vintageharleysrevived]

These bikes like fuel, that is for certain, good advice on the emulsion tube! I sure appreciate your input!! Thanks for the thorough comment! Ride Safe, be well!!

[@CaffeineThrottle]

@@vintageharleysrevived p.s. I haven't come across your channel til earlier,you now have a new subscriber. Be safe blow it out once in awhile.👋👍

[@vintageharleysrevived]

Lol, I will, just give me time, and I won't edit it out!! Thanks for the subscription!

[@hachi-rokuperformancegroup3987]

I bought a Chinese carb for my kids yamaha dirt bike 15 years ago then it sat for 5 or 6 years when they grew out of it and when my sun was ready to ride it worked but was gummed up from sitting so i spent a wopping $18 to get another and it still works today. Definitely worth the savings

[@vintageharleysrevived]

I as well have used them on many things, chain saws, lawn mowers, cheap to replace, work pretty good!

[@DjGnomeMachine]

Awesome channel! Your camera person does great work and the editing is awesome! Keep it up!

[@vintageharleysrevived]

I appreciate the encouragement! Thank you, I will relay your good regards to my crew!!

[@randyholcombe4234]

Bought a Dyna Low Rider that had a china carb (unknown to me). Bike started, idled and ran good but not strong. About a year later it started leaking through one of the brass balls in the side of carb and accelerator pump actually started shooting gas outside the body. Installed a stock HD carb I had laying around and it runs so much stronger.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

Glad you had what you needed to get it running well again, we do what we need to do with what we have. Ride Safe!

[@backnine]

I have a 2006 Sport. It had an 833. I rebuilt the Harley carb and could never get rid of a flat spot. I put the hammer performance 1275 kit on the bike. They gave a jet configuration for the kit. The price on a jet kit was around $40.00. Amazon add came up for my carburetor. It said carburetor and jet kit $52.00 with tax. I look on youtube for a review and it had positive reviews. I bought and jetted it for 1275 kit. The bike runs perfect. I did run it on the 833 before I put the 1275 kit on and it got rid of the flat spot and ran perfect. I have about 1000 miles on it and still runs perfect. I put a choke relocation bracket on the carb and had problems. The aftermarket choke cable had short threads and would pull the fitting out of the carb with the tight loop for the relocation kit. Had few other ones and found one with more threads on carb fitting. Solved that problem. But putting that loop on the cable would pull enrichment valve off the seat and the bike was super rich. This took a lot of head scratching because I thought the chinese carb took a crap. I was ready to put the Harley carb back on. But it ran great until th choke relocation. Took the carb off and you can see the valve. When the cable was straight it opened and closed fine. When I put the loop in it the valve came off the seat. I tried a couple different cables same thing. I had to cut the cable sleeve back and that fixed the problem. Just putting that out there. I have a KZbin Channel Back 9 Carburetors Great video

[@vintageharleysrevived]

Thank you for the informative comment! There is a learning curve with these carbs and a lack of technical information. Sounds like you got it figured out! Be safe out there!

[@arthurleino]

I put a Delorto pumper on my 1983 FXWG. After it's Body Cracked I put a Sudco Mikuni VM on it. The throttle cable was the same. I like the Mikuni, been good Carb.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

The Mikuni Carbs I have experienced with have been top drawer as well! Thanks for the informative comment!

[@59wargear]

Replaced my carb with an Amazon CV as a new carb was less than the rebuild kit. I did swap all the screws and had to file the boss where the cables mount so the Harley cable guide would fit. My 02 Bagger started right up and runs great! I do wish there was adjustment for the accel pump but a minor nit... totally great deal!

[@vintageharleysrevived]

Thank you for sharing your experience with this carburetor! A good portion of the negative feedback I am hearing concerns these areas of fit and finish, QC, if you will. Ride Safe, Be Well!

[@rizzo3689]

Came across your vid and was awesome to see you take the time to explain what needs to be done to those Chinese carbs and how they compare. I've got a 2005 softail deuce and the carb has been fine since I treat the gas and take the steps to winterize it properly but good to know if I ever needed a budget friendly option those will work. Liked and subbed! Cheers brother!

[@vintageharleysrevived]

Thanks for the encouraging comment! I am glad you found it informative! Welcome to the VHR family. I am trying to publish 2 new videos a month on the 2nd and 4th Friday of each month. Keep the comments coming! Ride Safe on that Duece!

[@michaelblew6019]

I'm running a keihein carb on my 1959 panhead going on since 1985(came off a1980 shovel), runs great,but will need rebuild for the float and needle

[@vintageharleysrevived]

I think the seat is replaceable in that carb, isn't it? I will look at the one off my 1985 Ironhead, I think it is very similar if not the same. Can you still buy the needle seat?

[@vintageharleysrevived]

Thank you for the encouragement from Germany!! I will try my best to post again every Friday morning! Be good to yourself in Germany!! Best wishes!

[@jameseagon1142]

I've used that same carb . it's actually very good. I like your channel but you could tone the music down. I watch for ideas not the music. But 👍over all😊

[@vintageharleysrevived]

Thank you so much for the helpful comment. Going forward I am certainly going to do exactly that. But I have just as many people who love the music, so we'll have to find a middle ground. Thank you!

[@jameseagon1142]

@@vintageharleysrevived understood no worries, the carb is a good cheap deal for someone that doesn't want to spend on an S&S

[@kennethhacker3014]

Yup ... great presentation dude im definitely getting a Chinese carb for my o6 sportster

[@vintageharleysrevived]

Glad you liked it, it is still performing well!! I put the Amazon links for the one I used in the video description. Thanks for the comment!

[@morteneide3857]

Greetings from Norway. Thanks for a informativ video. I like your objective angel on opinion. Ceep up the good work!

[@vintageharleysrevived]

Thank you for the encouragement from Norway! Welcome from Northern Indiana USA! Thank you for reaching out to me!!

[@nbowling10trio]

My son bought a sportster somebody had put a cheap Chinese knock off on it. Ran ok warmed up but when it was cold started it back fired hard and fouled plugs. I located an OEM carb and went thru it rebuilding it and now it runs flawless. Knock off carb went in the trash. Same thing with my grandsons Buell blast. He bought it same way. We rebuilt the OEM one and it ran great also

[@vintageharleysrevived]

OEM quality is without dispute. The question I am looking to answer is: Has the quality of the Chinese Carbs gotten better and will they last? They are a budget option if they work, they are filler for the trash can (recycling) if they don't! Lol! Thanks for the comment!

[@nbowling10trio]

@@vintageharleysrevived I hear you. I personally would spend the money on the original making it like new. If we keep buying the Chinese garbage,it's gonna continue flooding the market

[@vintageharleysrevived]

I think we may be way beyond trying to stop that from happening. It is like stopping buying from Walmart thinking it is going to stop them from selling Chinese stuff, know what I mean? Anyway, the OEM is the best most reliable option and if you buy it used on EBay the $$$ are going to another person directly. Thanks for the back and forth comment, Take Care and see you on another video!

[@VR-mm4ys]

Been running a Chinese carb on 98 fxdl. $65 with jets delivered to my house. Removed bowl screws while jetting with stainless allens. Runs fantastic, the inner machine works in carb was very good. 3 years, $65 bucks runs fantastic. I'd do it. And remember a cv40 has no replacement seat for needle and carb kit is $45 with no new needle. It's a cheap gamble at worst. And IMHO a win.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

It is good to hear of the longevity you have seen on this carb. Stainless allens are a great long term upgrade and IMHO I think it is worth the gamble as well! Thanks for the comment! Ride Safe, Be Well!

[@wrenchhead_dave7830]

Dude I’m old school too I’ve got an 86 FLT I just put a Chinese replica S&S the carburetor on my bike but it’s popping a lot and I don’t know what to do I saw your video and I loved it I’m thinking maybe jet up it is a 49 state bike also

[@vintageharleysrevived]

When warm imho popping on decel is usually too lean, pipes get hot and burn the fumes in the exhaust. Richen it up (the cool cats say "fatten" it up). Let me know what you find.

[@HangtownTactical]

That softail is gorgeous

[@vintageharleysrevived]

Thank you for the kind compliment, the stock paint is starting to grow on me. Lots of work to get it's profile looking correct. A boxful of parts removed!!!

[@backstreethero8173]

Hello, nice video. I did the same with my harley-davidson night train 2002, it didn't run well. I bought a Chinese car. And use it for two months now and it s so much more fun to ride with the Harley it rus like a dream. Just the same experience as you have, that's why you're video got my attention in the first place. I whis you a lot of nice and fun miles with the new upgrade. 👍🏼

[@vintageharleysrevived]

Thank you! Your right it is light, but mine was already light already as I eliminated the return cable as I customized it. I will post an update video in a year or when it fails!! Ride safe and keep the rubber side down!! More to come!!

[@jamesboardman7048]

The only issue ive had one carb the emulsion tube didn't seat all the way .grond down were the main jet screws in ,now the main jet pushing tube all the way up and sealing

[@vintageharleysrevived]

I definitely see those kinds of quality control type issues being an issue with these carbs.

[@MAsWorld1]

I used a Chinese “Mikuni” on my dirt bike, runs perfect as well ✅✅

[@vintageharleysrevived]

"Chinese" Mikuni, lol, I find myself referring to mine as a "Chinese" Keihin as well!

[@joshin94565]

Could you post the link to the exact carb that you bought? And the air mix screw?

[@vintageharleysrevived]

It is in the video description already. If the link doesn't work let me know.

[@harleybigdadbiker9503]

Replaced the CV carb on my 2003 Lowrider with a $120 Mikuni,woke it up and had a hell of an acceleration when you twisted the throttle.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

Mikuni is always a great choice! The Hillclimbers from this area alll used Mikuni because of the quick throttle response! Thank you for the comment!!

[@biggysground1]

I found the correct way to set carb jets is to set the main jet 1st, then the idle jet. Long straight a way on full throttle kill the ignition and coast to a stop, pull the plugs, a light tan color on the carbon pug tip is key, then once you achieve that, set your idle jet by lean dropping as you turn the idle mixture in you should see RPM rise, back off and you should see RPM go back down. This confirms a correct mixture jet, if you do not get the RPM to come back down then you need to move up on the idle jet size. Take those bowl screws and replace them with allen headed screws and use a quarter inch drive socket to deal with them. Much easier. Oh and yes I am an old experienced wrench and own 5 Harley's.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

This is GREAT tuning information! Thank you for sharing that! And Thanks for the comment! My fellow Old School friend!

[@biggysground1]

@@vintageharleysrevived No problem, if your plug tip is white move higher in jet size. I've tuned Harley's this was and they did excellent on the Dino.

[@biggysground1]

Dyno. I'm still waking on 1st coffee!

[@barryram2605]

Put early spring a new chinese cheap carburetor on a stihl hedgetrimmer, fraction of the price of the manufacturer product and served me all season without a glitch, even if I have to replace it every 2 or 3 years it's still a way better deal than using original parts.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

I did the same many years ago with an Echo Weed Eater. It has been great since! The Chinese CV Carb price has dropped to $43, you can buy 16 of them for the price the Dealership wants!

[@lesjones7617]

Well done, love it!

[@vintageharleysrevived]

Thank you for the comment!! More to come!

[@PhilC-i7y]

Swapped the CV out of my 04 Fatboy with a Mikuni years ago, this so improved the bikes performance but almost halved the mpg, still worth it

[@vintageharleysrevived]

That has been my experience with the Mikuni Flatslides as well. They give the performance, more air and MORE fuel! They sure awaken a sleepy EVO motor! Stay safe out there!! Thanks for the comment!

[@kennymcquinkiss8292]

Love the video very informative. The music is mixed in a little bit too loud whenever the music is playing by itself I have to turn it down cuz it's blasting

[@vintageharleysrevived]

I know you are right, I have solved that problem for upcoming videos, It is a big learning curve in the editing process. Trying to improve each video! Thank you for the constructive criticism and encouragement!

[@abcanimal]

Once I had a 1980 Sportster. The Keihin carb was junk so i replaced it with a Mikuni flat slide and made a WORLD of difference. I swear by Mikuni's.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

They have been and are a solid option! Their were a couple performance shops around area that put a bunch on sportys and EVOs. They have a quick responsive throttle twist! Thanks for the comment!

[@bikermedic58]

I went 'old school' on a 2012 8v1200 roller cam Moto Guzzi Norge. The Ecu had been reprogrammed . A lot of stock pieces already removed by previous owners. $ to stock parts $$$. Pulled throttle bodies and made 2 into one intake manifold with a used/ unknown Kehien 40 mm CV. IT WORKSD WELL EXCEPT IDLE. Will replace with Chinese. I want to TRY two CV and compare. This is more of a race engine . I don't use the top end 7500 so loss of hp will be traded for midrange/ mpg. This is just heads -up if we can share info if you're interested? I used a junkyard SU carb off an Austin Healy 3000 to run a SB 283 Chevy in a 60 Dodge truck. Thanks.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

Is the idle issue possibly that the single carb throat is not large enough to flow the necessary air/fuel mixture with the low vacuum at idle? Then as you increase engine RPM the increase in vacuum pulls hard enough to smooth out? Just a thought.....two may be a solution, if this is the case. It sounds like you are doing some really interesting/creative stuff. When I get home and on my computer I will check out your Channel. Who knows, we can surely share info! Thanks for the comment! TTYL

[@JustMe-dr2ci]

I ride a Ural. Three years ago I was looking at $540 just for parts to rebuild the Keihins. For much less I bought two complete Chinese knockoffs that still have it running like new.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

URAL! The original hard working Adventure Bike!! I am having a similar experience, the Softail is still running solid and strong!! Thanks For the Comment Mr URAL!

[@jamesdejean6548]

Installed a Super E knockoff on my Panhead three years ago. I bought three different brands from Amazon and kept the best one. Two of the carbs had no holes in the main jet nozzle. The finish was the same on all three. The carb I kept has a polished finish and no manufacturers markings on the body. Looked good to me. All the hardware and internal parts interchange with a factory S&S carb although the threaded holes for the float bowl seemed a little looser on the clone. I installed extended bowl screws from Vtwin Mfg. anyway. The enrichment device required a metric wrench also. Easy to dial in like a real S&S. Bike starts and runs fine. Make sure to check your float bowl height. I run one throttle cable, the return spring is plenty stiff. Before installing, fill the bowl with gas to make sure the accelerator pump is working. S&S carb $400. Clone about $60. Ultima makes the same carb for$200, but It’s a clone with their logo.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

That is all great information and I really appreciate the thorough advice!! S&S carbs are a thing of their own & I have worked on a bunch! There are still a range of quality coming out of different manufacturing plants in China. Thank you for the comment!!

[@fireballsoutherner]

I ran only S&S Super B on my Shovelheads. I love them.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

Those are great carbs, I have one on my 66 Ironhead! Thanks for the comment and info!

[@JohnMcClain-p9t]

I've been running super B's on Harleys since the seventies, put an accelerator float bowl on my 88 STD panhead, much better acceleration and overall performance, no flat spots.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

Thank you for that hands on Tech info!!

[@leesire]

My 05 1200 sporty pop at 43 mph what’s that about? Also when I get on it it want to misfire at the high rpm in first gear. Am I expecting too much out of my Sporty?

[@jmead6121]

Thanks I also put an Cheap 40 $ amazon carb on my 2000 1200 Sportster back 6 - 7 mo ago & guess what ? > it worked Great still running Strong all Summer

[@vintageharleysrevived]

That is great to hear! I am hoping for a similar result on the Softail!! Thank you for the great comment! Ride Safe, Be Well!!

[@WANNABESOMEBODY1000]

hi i have a dyna glide im doing that up .love your carb fix

[@vintageharleysrevived]

Good luck with that Dyna! Thanks for the positive comment!! Ride Safe, Be Well!!

[@simonh5110]

That is one beautiful bike. Can’t wait to get one.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

Thank you for the kind compliment! I have put a ton of time into massaging it to its current profile!! I got it in pretty rough shape, it barely ran.

[@GPgundude]

Great video!! I’ve always been curious about Amazon carbs. Just Subscribed!! Thanks for Sharing this with us!!!

[@vintageharleysrevived]

Thanks for the subscription! Welcome to the VHR family!

[@stevemason2939]

Bote a HR 42 6 YRS ago for $119 for my 93 Fatboy Best carb ever 50mpg sure beats 30 mpg of the harley carb paid for itself quick NO problems yet

[@vintageharleysrevived]

That is awesome to hear, I just took a 100 mile ride on the $59 CV and had no problems! Educate me, what is an HR carb? Thanks for the comment!

[@stevemason2939]

@vintageharleysrevived it's a Makuni Same parts Fits in place of CV Had to change to tune it for my bike They sent jets n such for this But I had to go To West 60 n got a couple more jets And one worked Tuned it n haven't touched it yet after all the yrs Some work stright out of box

[@vintageharleysrevived]

Got it, Mikuni is hard to beat, for sure!

[@TheCraigRichardson]

Do you have the Amazon link to the carb you used?

[@vintageharleysrevived]

These are all the parts I used, Good Luck!! CV40 Carburetor Replacement for Harley Davidson Sportster 1200 XLH1200 Sportster 883 XL883 1998-2016 / Softail 1988-2017 / Dyna FXR FXD 1988-2016 / Touring 1988-2016 27490-04 a.co/d/7mmc8Xm KIPA Carburetor Choke Cable for Sportster 883 CV40 mm XL883 27490-04 27465-04 Durable a.co/d/1zGaAyB Alpha Rider Pro Carb Rebuild Kit Mixture Screw For Keihin CV CVK Carbs For Harley Big Twin 1990-1999, Twin Cam 1999-2006 & Sportster XL 883 1200 1988-2006 a.co/d/eW7H5uu

[@korrybaloun5347]

I had a screwdriver bit with a thumb grip to adjust my old Ironhead back in the day

[@vintageharleysrevived]

That is the OLD SCHOOL makin' it happen attitude!! Hell Yes!👍💪

[@FXSTB-i]

Banged an absolute cheap Spanish made sissy bar on my softail years ago. It was matt black, outstanding and looked the part. Harley wanted several million for a chrome offering 😂

[@vintageharleysrevived]

I know you are right! Probably.made in some poor Asian country somewhere!! Thanks for the comment!!

[@whocares0692]

Nicely done Sir, nicely done. I like the couours of the bike. Kind of "classy".

[@vintageharleysrevived]

Thank you for the complimentary comment!! It has been a ton of work and hours to get it to sit like that!! The Softail Custom is a beautiful platform for Customization! Stay Safe and Be Well!!

[@LuckyHandsGarage]

This was a great review. I’m always weary of Amazon parts. Also I’ve had a lot of hit or miss. Carbs being one of them. I’ve gotten ones from Japan sellers that say they fit and are too small inlets or the float bowel is to shallow and keeps the float up. Like the honesty. It runs good for now, time will tell. Please do a yearly follow up.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

Thank you for the honest and kind critique! I am planning a 1 year follow up after winter storage and the next summer season. It will be sooner if it has a failure. Thanks for the great comment!

[@kct9967]

I used to buy these but with a flange that bolted directly to shovels and ironheads, and they worked great!, but cant find them with the flange anymore, if anyone knows where I can find them please let me know!

[@vintageharleysrevived]

I have not been able to buy them with that flange either. I have found the adapter with rubber bushing, how to mount it solid is an issue. I will look into that for a future video with the "Bad News" 1985 Sportster!! Thanks for the great comment!!

[@ThePaulSIN]

Seriously man love your content. I am learning lots! Thanks for passing on the knowledge!

[@vintageharleysrevived]

You are so welcome!! It is my passion to do just that! Thank you for soaking it up!! Stay Safe, Be Well my friend!!

[@geraldboucher831]

I fitted one on my 1340 shovelhead bike, runs better than new.😄

[@vintageharleysrevived]

I had put a CV on a 1981 FLT years ago for a friend, it did run better than new! Ride Safe! Be Well!

[@martyneilan8947]

I have used both Mikuni and S&S as replacement carbs. Both different but good when dialed in.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

They are both proven performers. I have worked on both Brands and several models as well. I have an S&S on a 1966 Ironhead. They do take an independent process to arrive at a proper adjustment. I continue to have good performances with this knock off CV Carb. Thanks for the comment!

[@BAMFSpYdy]

Is there a diaphragm under the black cap on the top of that carb? If there is, I'll bet that's the problem. My 74 Honda CB 550 four had diaphragm carbs and that was the problem with those carbs. I replaced them with the CB 750 four slide carbs. Made it into a screamer.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

Yes, there is a diaphragm under the black cap. Your Carbs are probably Keihin Carbs as well. I replaced it, quite some time ago, even tho' it seemed to be fine and it didn't help. The body of this carb is worn in the butterfly shaft and the CV slide. I have not seen one worn like this, the bike has 70k on it, but I have seen them go longer, like 100K +. ??? Thanks for the great input and suggestion! Ride Safe, Be Well!

[@svenklaas1210]

Great channel! Keep it going, it's great! Best wishes from Germany!

[@vintageharleysrevived]

Thank you! I will! Keep the rubber side down in Germany!!!

[@vintagedriver883r]

Thank's for that, I will keep the Carb in my basket at amazon and try it next time. go ahead with your chanel. great's from germany.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

Thank you for the kind encouragement from Germany! I will try to post every Friday morning if I can! Keep the rubber side down in Germany!!

[@jamespolucha8790]

I bought one and didn’t realize it was a Chinese knock off so I installed it anyway and it’s been on for 2 years with no issues at all, I guess it’s a hit or miss

[@vintageharleysrevived]

That's wild! Sometimes those cheapies surprise you, huh? Two years and still kicking is a win in my book!

[@MammothPaige]

I like your wooden stand.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

Thanks!! I made it out of Scrap Lumber I had around. The Casters and Hardware I got from Lowes super cheap. I have like $40 in it. I love it!!

[@NormalishGuy]

I got me an Amazon CV40 carb, $40 bucks. I just replaced mine with all my old OEM CV40 carb parts plus a fresh rebuild kit… and this sucker has my bike running great I’m not even kidding it seems better than OEM.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

Hell Yes Brother!! You just joined the Club!!

[@vintageharleysrevived]

BTW I love your KZbin handle!

[@NormalishGuy]

@@vintageharleysrevived thanks my man! Appreciate it 🙏

[@hakansundstrombmwsweden7645]

Changed my Solex vw buss carb. China crap on right now, but it runs like a dream.....

[@vintageharleysrevived]

You must have gotten a good one as well! I hope it keeps going well! Thanks for the comment!

[@MrVicenteInezAlvarez]

Have a Kipa carb on my sporty. Been to 12 states, Mexico and Canada. Works great.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

12 States and 3 Countrys On a Sporty!! That is Awesome!!!

[@georgemiddleton7017]

Like so many things these days ,some replacement carbs are good and some are not .I have both good and bad luck with knock off replacements.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

I have had the same experience and have heard from many with similar stories. Probably QC issues and differences from factory to factory? Thanks for the comment!

[@sethkline4824]

Very informative and entertaining video! Thank you!

[@vintageharleysrevived]

Glad you enjoyed it! And thanks for the awesome comment!!

[@MikeHensley-sc3ns]

I wanna buy a Harley is why I’m watching…. Ty.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

That's great! I hope you find information that helps your decision! Thanks for watching!

[@davidsayer8738]

Selling my 1999 heritage softail classic. Lots of add on faring kick ass stereo, new wiring, ignition module, getting ready to put new carb on, LED under glo light. and more.

[@phillmckrakin2518]

I learned my lesson on buying cheap china parts. I have thrown two carbs in the trash can. I bought the mikuni kit for $400, runs like a top.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

Hard to beat a $400 Mikuni Carb! I have bought entire motorcycles for less $$, LOL (That was quite some time ago) Thanks for the Comment!

[@simontrotter8443]

Hey man, loved the video and hope the carby lasts. One question: what band is playing the music on your vid cos I wanna hear more. Thanks for doing what you do.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

I hope it lasts as well! On the music. I subscribe to a Music Service called Epidemic Sound for copyright free music for my videos. They have a host of independent creators that get paid when their music is used. www.epidemicsound.com/track/LpyfjvXctq/ the creator is called "Rockin' for Decades" the song is called"Back to Black" that I open with. I dont know if you can listen to it without a subscription. It sounds like 80s AC/DC doesnt it? Thank you for the great comment!

[@railroad7401]

My good brother put a Chinese S&S on his UL flatty. $55 and he figures if it craps out every 3 years he can replace it over 8 times for the price of an S&S. The bike runs great! I would have kept the M51 Linkert myself.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

It's awesome that your brother found a budget-friendly solution that works for him! The UL flatty must be running smoothly-He can keep the Linkert on the shelf for a future return to the original! Thanks for the Comment!

[@peteloomis8456]

S&S carburetors usually don't wear out because I have one on my old Evo that's been on this bike for 30 years . The car club I am in we have a sprint dirt track mini that's got a Buell 1,200 that's modified and it uses a S&S Super G carburetor with the thunder jet system on it and that carburetor is worn out because of the dust that gets into it even though it runs the air filter plus the throttle is set up for a foot feed gas pedal and being this is run on a short track with the throttle constantly being on & off the throttle plate bushings wore out so the throttle plate doesn't return like it should . These carburetors were never designed for a foot feed throttle because with the constant off on by using your foot that has a much more pressure being put on the throttle it's going to wear out much faster than just being turned by hand . The original keihn carb on my evo I started having accelerator pump problems and the idle mix screw kept moving falling out of tube plus the intake manifold seals would get brittle and cause vacuum leaks and with the S&S these intakes use a aluminum & rubber bonded intake manifold seals that won't leak because they actually fit partially inside the intake ports which eliminates intake leaks .

[@peteloomis8456]

I would like to add that S&S used to be made in Kenosha Wisconsin but have moved to Lacrosse Wisconsin where they still build the carburetors & the new fuel injection systems for HD along with the engines they build so at least they are still being made here in the USA and not in Chinesium land !

[@railroad7401]

@@peteloomis8456 Yeah, I run S&S on a 84 FXR bar hopper. I'm waiting to see how long the China version lasts on my Brothers UL. You want to buy American but it's so expensive!

[@vintageharleysrevived]

They are and have been quality go to Harley replacements for years, worked on a lot of them, have one on my 66 XLCH. Thanks for the great comment and great info!!

[@WiSeNhEiMeR-1369]

Thanks COOP ...

[@vintageharleysrevived]

Your Welcome! -OLD SCHOOL

[@hawkbradley4029]

Intersting.. I'm gunna get my first Evo soon.. trying to learn what I can.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

I honestly feel the EVOs, both Sportsters and Big Twins, are the last engine The Motor Company (HD) made that have an unbroken connection (design wise) to the origins of Harley Davidson. An Evo is a great choice for several reasons. Easy to work on, Parts availability, the "Harley" sound, they are relatively inexpensive and they are increasing in value as they age. Good Choice and good luck!! Ride Safe, Be Well!!

[@JohnStruemph]

Great vid. Those Amazon carbs are all Metric, the Harley Keihins are standard thread. I had to tap my carb for the air filter to mount. Also the jets don’t interchange. Keep those new jets and mark what they fit. I have YET to find one of those Amazon carbs with the cruise control. Which sucks as I want mine to have it. Great vid, thanks for sharing. Be well!

[@vintageharleysrevived]

Thank you for the great comment! All good information! Lol, yeah, no cruise on the 1994 Softail Custom either!!You be well also!!

[@firecaster70]

I put one on an 89 883 4 years ago for a customer and still runs fine today. $54 then.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

That is EPIC! Good to hear the longevity could be there! I Appreciate the Comment! Ride Safe, Be Well!

[@BillBowyer1971]

Amen brother. I learned a lot. Great video.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

Thanks for the encouragement Bill! Keep the rubber side down!

[@murraydrummond6318]

I did the same thing to 98 softail. I’m Canadian everything is million dollars new or used. To buy used cv on eBay $400 plus shipping and brokerage fees Harley dealer $1100 plus tax Fuc& me Bought one on Amazon $75 free shipping Changed out the Jett’s Engine started ran idled that was in June of this year and still running strong I still laughing at how amazing even if it shits the today it’s worth another Cool I just subscribed I’ll keep in tune to your channel Stay safe.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

Wow!! I thought $709 was wayyyy too much from the American Harley Dealer! They sure do think A LOT of their parts!!! It is great to hear of a similar experience, on a similar bike! I will do a follow up on this maybe in a year or if it fails. Thanks for Subscribing!! Stay safe in Canada and Keep the rubber side down!!!

[@craigeby8016]

Ive been thinkin bout one of them for mine, thx I think u made up my mind....

[@vintageharleysrevived]

Good Luck! Let me know how that goes for you, throw any questions my way if you need to!!

[@bucktadlock5258]

I am actually interested in which carb you chose as there are several to choose from,

[@vintageharleysrevived]

I put the link in the video description for the carb I used, also the choke Cable and Idle/Air Mixture Screw. All there in the description. Good luck!!!

[@chrisperry3525]

i have an MG midget and detest the british carb options...used a chinese copy of a mikuni 42ss flat slide and HD intake - works great!

[@chrismorneau8188]

Did you check the level of your float. if you can’t get it to tune, these carburetters are very picky about the level of the fuel bowl

[@vintageharleysrevived]

Man you sure are right about that, they are finicky about the float level! It was correct, the problem was likely the worn CV slides and the shaft on the Butterfly in the body of the Carb. So far so good on the Chinese Knock off! Thanks for the comment!

[@charlesharper7292]

Before you junk that old carb, check out the slide. The wings on each side of the slide will wear and deform. Especially in the venturi area. That will make it idle/ run shitty. I've never seen a CV kien carb I couldn't rebuild unless the casting was damaged.👍🍺

[@vintageharleysrevived]

Agreed, and thank you for that info, upon further examination the body of the carb is worn where the butterfly shaft goes through body. I have not seen one worn like this before. I was intending to rebuild it and have it ready if this Chinese one fails. Thanks for the comment!

[@bradbeall392]

I have a 1979 FLH that I found in an abandoned house. That’s right, for free. After getting it home, I found out that the probable cause of the bike only having 3200 miles on the odometer (and the original tires, in fantastic condition!) was the fact that the starter crapped out, probably right after the 90 day warranty expired. Rather than fix it, the original owner just walked away from it. So, I put an $89 starter (from Amazon, of course) on it, and it fired up and ran but it never ran very well. I’ve cleaned and rebuilt the carb several times, with new jets and gaskets, but it just does not want to run, and the more I run it, the worse it gets. And no, there is absolutely no rust in the tanks, and the fuel shut off is clean. The original owner drained all the fluids before walking away from the bike. Anyway, I’m gonna try a cheapo Amazon carb and see how it works… I’ll let you know. In the meantime, does anybody have a decent clutch basket for a 79 Shovelhead? Mine is missing a tooth from the starter ring gear.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

That is one of those "Wow" finds for certain!! I do not have a clutch basket for a shovel on hand. I haven't heard great things about the Knock Off S&S carb that Amazon has. Just FYI. I just put a CV carb on an Ironhead, It was a trick, but it runs great! That video goes up Sept 27 @4:45pm. It would be the same conversion to a shovel! Good Luck and thank you for reaching out! What a find you have Wow!

[@gregritchie1758]

If you find a cheap knock off for the FLH please post back. Thanx!!

[@gregritchie1758]

Seems your carb may fit a 1980 FLH with some trick work. Can you explain a bit plz?

[@backstreethero8173]

So, the trhottle feels so light, some thing you goto get use to, but the bike feels so smooth with that light trhottle feeling.

[@mikeskidmore6754]

I put a Chinese carb on my 1952 Ford 8N works good so far.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

I just bought a Kipa for my Dad's 1942 Farmall B Cultivision, going on there soon!

[@mikeskidmore6754]

@@vintageharleysrevived I am sending back some Chinese shaver blades. They showed them in a Norelco Box. It's a Walmart seller. They are junk they just pull on your whiskers $14.99 Genuine Norelco are $20.99 .. and far better.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

Not all good yet, but I have gotten some junk here in the good old USA as well!!

[@rossr100]

I hate to say it but (some) Chinese tools are pretty good. I just threw out a 20 year old, $20 variable speed hammer drill I abused every time I used it and I guess it probably just needed brushes.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

I have had the same experience. The quality, maybe not accross the board, but in quite a few intances is coming up. Thanks for the Comment! Stay Safe, Be Well!

[@jmac6242]

Good informative video. It's pretty cool, too!

[@vintageharleysrevived]

I really appreciate your kind words! It means a lot to know you found the video helpful.

[@davidrochow9382]

Knowing Hardley, or just about all motorcycle dealers as most of their factories are there now, it's most probably the same but with the Hardley tax added.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

It is almost the same for sure, they do add a "Harley" tax which means doubling the price at least!!!

[@vintageharleysrevived]

"Hardly Tax" LOL

[@papertrail44]

I tried the $50 Amazon Super E knock off. Was hoping it worked like the $500 S&S. Couldn't get it to idle correctly. Came with a bag of jets without any numbering. Half of Amazon reviews reported the same. Was hoping I'd be lucky. Nope.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

It is kind of a crap shoot with inexpensive parts, some are better than others.

[@markgadol6472]

I did the same thing you did for my 96 glide. Even the same size jets. Although the Chinese choke sucks .once the bike is warmed up ,it idles perfect and runs nice. In my case it might be the vose going bad on the warm up.but otherwise ,my evo keeps chugging along

[@vintageharleysrevived]

That is so great to hear! I am glad you have had such good luck! It is warm here now, we will see about the choke in another month or so!! Thanks for the awesome comment!

[@markgadol6472]

@@vintageharleysrevived I did mine last autumn ,and I'm up in the north georgia mountains

[@vintageharleysrevived]

I love that area south of Robbinsville, NC. Be safe in those hills!!!

[@charlesburnett3339]

Great video I have thought about trying one of those knock offs, Did you make that roll around for your bike and what type of wheels has it. I like that.

[@vintageharleysrevived]

It has the stock wheels, as far as I know It is a 1994 FLSTC Softail Custom, stock 21" front, 180 rear. The roll bag on the swingarm? It was an EBay find. Thanks for the comment!! Stay safe out there!

[@MontanaFree]

I like your motorcycle work stand. Do you have a video about it or plans for it? Thanks!

[@vintageharleysrevived]

No, but I did post some pictures of it and a description of materials on my community tab on the VHR Channel Page. 👍

[@ThadeousMonkey]

It's both sad and happy at the same time.😅

[@vintageharleysrevived]

I guess you are right, it is both sad that the factory parts cost so much and we are using these Chinese made carbs instead. Yet, happy that it works and it is an inexpensive fix. Thanks for the comment!

[@michaelmitchell5909]

I can dig it man, but is there not a rebuild kit with a float and the pin springs amd all that for those carbs? Just curious,.....love the bike tho man....sounds awesome. Just got a new sub!

[@vintageharleysrevived]

I will look and try to get back with you, but it seems to me they are so close to the same you could interchange them. I am thinking about an in depth disassembly/comparison video trying to answer those types of questions! Thank you for the awesome interactive comment and the Subscription, I sure love that Softail, I wanted one for years and found that one barely running and ugly as dirt! Watch the Old Schools Garage Chronicles for pics of it when I bought it!!