How to Improve Torque in Harley Evos
The best way to improve the torque of your Harley Davidson Evolution engine is also the easiest. The tried and true combination of adding more air to the engine and then releasing it as quickly as possible is the single most economical and shadetree mechanic-friendly upgrade you can perform on your ride. For the best performance upgrade you can give your Evolution twin, opt for a high-quality air intake coupled with an aftermarket exhaust that won't rattle your teeth out when you ride.
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Things You'll Need
- 3/8 inch drive socket set
- Screwdriver
- Harley Evolution air intake kit
- Vance and Hines Longshot exhaust pipes
Instructions
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1
Remove the motorcycle's stock air cleaner by using the socket wrench to remove the nut on the side of the air cleaner. With the face of the air cleaner removed, remove the air filter element, then use the socket wrench to remove the bolts which mount the air cleaner backing plate to the engine.
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2
Install the high performance air intake backing plate onto the stock air cleaner mounting location. The mounting bolts will line up with the mounting holes on the backing plate of the air intake. Use the original bolts to secure the backing plate to the engine, then install the high performance filter element and finally the air intake housing. Use the bolt which you removed in the first step to secure the air intake housing to the air filter and backing plate.
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3
Unbolt the stock exhaust system from the motorcycle by first removing the bolts located between the exhaust pipes near the bike's rear axle, then removing the mounting bolts located under the passenger footrest. Finally, unbolt the exhaust headers from the engine with the socket wrench and pull the exhaust system first forward and away from the motorcycle, then back and away to dislodge the exhaust from the engine and lift it away.
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4
Bolt the new exhaust system into place using the same mounting points which were provided for the stock Harley exhaust system. Installation of the replacement exhaust is best done in the opposite manner with which the stock exhaust was removed. First insert the exhaust into the exhaust ports of the motorcycle, then bolt the exhaust to the frame at the passenger footrest, then finally at the rear axle.
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Tips & Warnings
Avoid expensive upgrades to boost torque such as "big bore" kits unless you are well versed in motorcycle mechanics. It is best to have a dealership service department install kits other than typical exhaust/intake setups.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
