Hey guys so I've been perusing the forum on this and I've found some stuff on EFI and a snippet here and there on carbureted engines.. anyway I have a 92 Sportster 1200 (carbureted) and I am looking to get some pipes. There are these awesome pipes for 250$ (discounted) at my local Harley and I would like to get them.Do I need to tune the bike? Can I tune the bike myself? I like to do all the work for myself because of my wallet and I know what's been done. I have the stock air filter and as far as I know the carb is stock.

 

What are the pipes?

When you change the exhaust, you'll likely need to change the jets. You can search on here on how to read your plugs. Or, as I do, take it to a dyno to get an A/F reading so you know it's right.

I just installed a 2:1 yesterday, so it'll be back to the dyno for me as soon as I can arrange to get there.

 

Do you have the Service manual for your year and model bike?

This web site here will help you make your CV carb all it can be.

http://www.harley-performance.com/index.html

 

I do have a service manual for it. What are plugs? I'm a real tight wad so I really don't want to pay anything more than for the pipes. They're Vance and Hines sideshots. So if I read up on that website, I can buy the pipes, and tune the carb myself? Do you think that I can tune the carb like it needs to be tuned?

 

If you are not sure what "plugs" are you may want to have someone else install the pipes and rejet the carburetor.(Spark plugs are being referred to)

 

I know what spark plugs are, I've never heard them referred to as "plugs." Would the sideshots negatively affect performance?

 

If the jetting is not done properly after the pipe install, yes, it could have a negative affect on performance.