I haven’t posted much lately so I thought I would do a little catching up. The 2014 riding season is over. There were times I did not think it would end.
May @ Ribfest: Ruby (02 SERK) ate her final drive belt, left rear shock popped a seal and leaked all over, and the swing arm bushing was worn out. She wouldn’t hold a line in a curve for anything. Damn near ran out of gas. To top it off, I got a seat belt ticket riding with Uncle Jessie & TN!
June Michigan / Wisconsin trip with my buddies from the JOB: Vanessa (11 SESG) start making a ticking noise when we near Copper Harbor, Mi, about as far north as we could get. Sounded like the rear cylinder area. Using oil badly. Limped her into a HD shop. Compression down in the rear cylinder, sounds like a valve guide slipped. Kept adding oil and continued the trip as we were on the downhill side of riding home. Thought I was on an old two stroker. Tore her down, yep rear intake valve guide was extreme loose in my T Man heads. Upon further inspection, no other damage. But the heads are cut to match the 20* JE/Axtell pistons. Sent heads to Dave Mackie. He recommended getting new heads. New build with pistons matching the 110 heads.
July: Lexi / BFH (08 SERK) starts making a very loud noise like a serpentine belt going out you car. Immediately turn her off. Take her to the shop. Wood Directional Lifter took a dump. Little needle bearings take out the cams, oil pump. Got her fixed in time to ride her @ MV. Had mostly a good time….but did get a reminder of what is truly important.
So how many Harleys do you have to own so you can always go riding? I don’t know but my son’s 84 FXRS ran just fine when I need her. Looking back at last season tho, I had a great time @ Ribfest! Michigan was beautiful! And Lexi is just the Bike From Hell. All the bikes are ready for this year’s adventures. Can’t wait to meet old friends, make new ones and see what happens this season.
JW