I have a 2004 Fatboy with a standard carb (not EFI). I am looking at ordering some new exhaust pipes from V&H and there is note about O2 sensors.

I'm a complete engine dunce sometimes, so I figured I'd ask to be sure...

Since I have a carb, I don't need O2 sensors, right? I assume those are for the EFI balance. Or are they for some other emissions based thing?

 

EFI only. There's a set of V&H Big Shot Longs on the San Diego Craigslist for $350. Also the o2 holes can be plugged if you find pipes with them.

 

The only reason I could think of for O2 sensor's on a carb'd bike would be during a dyno tuning session to make sure that you are running the proper air fuel ration through out your powerband otherwise they would be pretty much useless to you at any other point in time.

 

Yes.......you are right, no need for them

 

True, or you can do it yourself on a carbed bike or EFI bike.

http://www.nightrider.com/biketech/i..._lm1_intro.htm

 

OK -show off time- O2 sensors are used to determine the amount of oxygen in the exhaust stream. Gas engines require a mixture of fuel to air which will provide the best amd most complete burn of all the fuel and oxygen that was sucked into the engine. In a perfect world, all the Hydrocarbons (HC) and the Oxygen (O2) would be converted to water (H2O) and Carbon Dioxide (CO2). Since the world isn't perfect we get left over HC, O2, and CO (Carbon Monoxide) as well as the H2O and CO2. O2 sensors tell the computer if there is a lot or a little extra O2. Too much O2 means a lean mix and the comp gives more HC (Fuel). Too little O2 and the engine reduces the HC. Carbs cannot be fine tuned as perfectly by the comp so they don't generally bother with O2 sensors except on fuel injected engines where the comp can make best use of the information.

OK science lesson over........

 

Get the o2 sensor plugs. You can get the right size bolt at any auto parts store.