The downside to the install 'on the side', is that godforsaken word....warranty. Look, here is the bottom line at my dealership. If they install a cam, they will warranty the work. Any leaks, problems etc it's covered. The only thing that remains uncovered is the non-harley parts, and I have some good faith in Zippers. So does Harley. If the work is done outside, nada is covered, and even though it may be gaskets that fail, it still is a PITA. One other interesting thing, if the rocker cover needs a blem removed for clearance with the stock setup, and it is determined that it is rubbing, which I think it is, the clearancing will be covered under warranty, which means the labor for the tank removal and rocker access, and cleanup, (about one hour) will fall off the invoice.
NOTE: do not get into warranty with me or this post. Next, I think that Goldwing will still win, unfortunately.
My dealer looks at each mod and manufacturer and the intent of the mod, and if it not pushing the motor, or harmful with an unknown, warranty ain't gonna be an issue. They want the revenue and have confidence in certain mods. Period.
NEXT: Smiler....
www.zippersperformance.com look up new stuff, New thundermax with autotune. Go to the
www.thunder-max.com website also, and download the smartlink IV software, and the install manual and the quick install books. free. You will think it is complicated, but it is not. The key is in the maps that ZIppers created. No dyno required, no outside tuner to mess things up. The software code, to open it, is right in the manual, open sourced for everyone.
It is really the best bet if you want to retain your independence, rather than paying a dealer for a tweak now and then.
Don't waste your money on a SERT. I have one, unfortunately locked to my ECM, but now I have the stock ECM and the SERT in the garage storage . Yes, it could be a combo to replace on a bike and have a nice sert and ecm setup, but it is not for sale at this time, but I don't know why..yet.
Rhino