Hi all... Pacific Time and I can't sleep.

I have researched and read many threads on this site concerning CFMs and performance loss without performing various tunes or modifying the map.

Because I am doing this for aesthetics only (not a waste of money in my eyes) on a bone stock 2009 FLHP 103. No change in exhaust so I wouldn't say it quantifies a stage 1. Though in a sense... wouldn't any improvement in the ability for the bike to breath or exhale using slightly "upgraded 2015 parts" vs what was issued in 2009 be in the stage 1 category/realm? That being said... I have read the formula for quantifying the cfm requirements of a 103 at 5k rpm being 149 CFM (by the numbers - CFM required is RPM x C.I. displacement divided by 3456) which is sufficiently less than what a stock set up was able to deliver - a good thing.

My question is will the stock system adjust the AFR such that ANY increase in CFMs from the A/C and/or Stock Filter media of the new 2014/2015 Air Cleaner over the ham can setup cause a loss in performance with a retro fit... by way of backfiring, engine pinging or is it a non issue?

Through my research on this topic I read a post where the individual talked about the Temperature sensor inside the intake manifold and how after some 20k his became caked with oil/soot and sure as ever... whether needed or not... I removed mine and could see the nipple and inside the grates was greased up and all black. I did spray it down with carb cleaner and could see the sensor tip is actually a yellow object. Anyways... I reinstalled it. Didn't notice jack ***** difference but maybe a little peace of mind.

I'm trying to do things on a penny between my **** cheeks budget and with the theory that any improvement in CFMs (albeit aesthetics driven at this point) won't cause neg issues. I will save the ham can and filter media in the event I take her for a spin and notice any negative effects but I do want opinions.

 

I'm no expert on the subject but simply giving the bike more ability to get air shouldn't cause any issues. The ecm will keep things adjusted. I kind of doubt the new air cleaners breathe that much better.

 

Contrary to what many believe, Harley efi does not "adjust". All engine parameters are set in the map/ tune. They can only change with external "flash" programs/tuners. What little "adjustment" that does happen in closed loop is not permanent or "learned". "Add-on" devices play in this area. But to answer if changing to a newer a/f will affect this enough for you to notice, try it.