Ethanol Blended Fuels - Update

Ok guys...I told you I would keep you informed on the fuel research I've been doing. Since HQ wants you to have a very healthy trouble free motor for a very long time, I've spent the better part of several weeks speaking with authorities on the subject. Let me start by saying the following...the information I'm providing you with is not up for debate nor is it speculation or personal opinion. It's coming from sources ranging from lead chemical engineers at multiple gasoline companies, to ethanol manufacturers, to the Special Service Committee in Washington DC (yes, I've spoken directly with them several times as well). I'm not going to provide in depth details of the conversations because I was asked more than once to sign non-disclosure agreements but I will provide information necessary to ensure longevity of your motor so....

There have not been any recent changes (past couple of months) to gasoline, it's generic blend, or changes in geographic specific blends. The commonalities we are seeing with conditions of the motors (noise, carbon buildup, etc) are not in any way related to engine design or materials and has everything to do with fuel. However, the noises that have come up recently, while they sound the same, are caused by different issues...all of which are fuel related in summary. Now, more than ever, these bikes need to be tuned accordingly. After having indepth conversations with all those listed above, I have a full understanding of how tunes need to be modified to accomodate the new blends. I am at liberty to say...get ready...15% ethanol is right around the corner making it ever more important that your tuner FULLY understands the impact fuel blends have on the tune of the bike.

Next issue is fuel economy and total power output. Bottom line is folks, because of the changes in fuel blends (ethanol), you can expect to see slightly less power and less fuel economy with ethanol blends. If you want to keep the motor healthy with a proper tune, there simply is nothing that can be done about it. You can make the best parts in the world but the fuel quality is a key element...and it is what it is.

Next week, the committee in Washington DC will be having another meeting. I have been asked to be involved with the committee from an engine designers perspective and will have several contacts who will be sharing information. After the closing of the meeting, Im sure I'll have even more information and will share what I can. I'm doing all I can to make sure our customers are on the forefront of this issue and will continue to update you as I have more information.

Cam Install - 2008 FLHX

This 2008 Harley Davidson FLHX belongs to Eric in Atlanta.  I'm installing a set of Head Quarters Hurricane HQ-TC-500-HC cams and Screamin Eagle Race Tuner.  Already installed were Vance and Hines Classic slipons and SE high flow air cleaner.  After a bit of tuning, it really woke this stock 96" up.  If a complete build isn't in the budget, than our bolt in cams will give you a substantial power increase.  Big bang for the buck!

Pinion shaft runout was more than I like to see but it is within Harley-Davidson spec.

Current and upcoming projects

Just finished up a gear swap on an 07 FLHR with Head Quarters 103ST.  That 3.41 gears makes for a very fast bike and the 6 speed really likes it.  Other misc work on the table.  Have a custom engine build coming up on a new 2010 HD Sporty - the "48".  Going 883 -1200 and it should be very nasty.  Also built some custom speaker boxes for an FLHX squeezing 2 8" subs and amp into each saddlebag.

Services from Pro Twin Performance

We all know the difference is in the details. Every detail of our bike is important...it's a substantial investment. To keep your investment in peak condition, Pro Twin Performance has expanded our services to include:

• Complete - turn key - engine builds
• Crate engine builds
• EFI and carb tuning
• Custom bike builds
• Paint/body
• Regular scheduled maintenance (1k, 5k, 10k, etc)

 For dealers, we also offer on site training in EFI / Carb tuning as well as seminars for your employees and customers, educating them on performance engine upgrades. You can tune fuel injection EVEN IF YOU DONT HAVE A DYNO. With our training, you can tune better and faster than you thought possible with the Screamin Eagle Race Tuner, Pro Super Tuner, or TTS Mastertune.

 

Contact us for more information.

Pro Twin Performance Launch

Needless to say my first Head Quarters build as a customer was flawless and very powerful. In the years since, I became a part of the Head Quarters team, working with Doug to provide innovative products and unmatched quality. Pro Twin Performance Products is an extension of that promise to make your purchasing decision easy, provide convenience, and make the results predictable. Soon there will be a full product line of quality components, taking the guess work out of performance....and I commit to proving it to you.

Project Softail

Wow!! It's been a year since my last post? Has it been that long? Time flies. Glad to be back in the saddle. This year the blog and HQ forum is gonna be packed with new info to help you...until then...on to the fun stuff

Well guys here it is...the project Pro Twin Performance/Head Quarters softail is off the rack and on the road. I had a great time with the project because it combines the best of the best products, little bit of new, little bit of old, yet is easily done on a stock frame and is an absolute pleasure to ride! Thanks to the guys at Baker Drivetrain (James Simonelli), Samson Pipes (Kenny Price), Arlen Ness, Carlini, and Performance Machine.

2000 Softail

Lowered 1 1/2 inches front and rear

Uncut stock frame

4deg rake thru triple tree

Engine:

Head Quarters (of course) 120 ST

HQ0033G Cams (HQ gears)

HQ6100 Ignition
Flywheels by Darkhorse Crankworks

SE 51mm Carb with HQ jet kit

This has to be the fastest motorcycle I've ever ridden...after a few miles I'll have "the sheet" but compared to others, I wouldn't be surprised to see 130+hp and 150+tq. It's absolutely STUPID fast.

Probably the most unique feature of the heads would be TRIPLE compression releases in each head! I utilized 2 HQ mech releases and the HD automatic compression releases. Wiring them in to work automatically with the start button on a 2000 carb model took a couple tricks with a relay but it works great. Even with that small stock battery, it starts like an absolute dream with zero effort it seems!

Drivetrain:

Stock transmission

Baker SBD Belt Drive System with outboard support and clutch

Final drive ratio 3.41

The rest of the list is a mix of PM controls and calipers, old school Ness wheels and a couple of goodies, Carlini bars, etc.