QuestionQUESTION: Hi,
We just purchased (via Ebay)and are leaving tomorrow morning to pickup a 1998 Sportster 883, 5600 miles, screamin eagle exhaust. We live in Helena, the bike's in Phoenix - so we are a little worried and would really appreciate a speedy response.
The seller just called, had it in for a "tune-up" at the Phoenix Harley Dealer. He's reporting that it started fine, but after it warmed up it started blowing smoke (mostly white with a tinge of blue) from the exhaust. He says it's never happened before and the Harley Dealer told him everything looked fine when they checked it out. And they assured him they didn't overfill.
We are paying $4203.00 for the bike and from all other appearances, seems to be a good deal. We have absolutely no reason (yet) not to trust that the buyer is acting in good faith. So, we are inclined to go ahead and get the bike - then deal with it. Just want to make sure that "dealing with it" doesn't turn into a catastrophe!
Any ideas? Again, your quick response would be very much appreciated.
ANSWER: Smoking out the exhaust means that you are burning oil. the oil can be coming from two places. Either getting around the rings or through the valve guides. In order to find out you would either have to do a compression and bleed down test or tear the top end down
Good luck and happy riding
Mike
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: Thanks for the quick response and I was able to deduce this from your previous answers to other similar questions. Once more question, what's a best scene scenario / worst scene scenario and a high-ballpark price for each? OK, 4 questions!
Again, thanks so much!
Jane McKinney
AnswerIts hard for me to say what the price would be. Labor prices are different all over the country as well as going to a dealer or a independent shop. Worse case would be reduing the top end. I would call around and get some prices in your area
Good luck and happy riding
Mike
