The cam bearings were a recall, but not until they went out.

 

I had a 1999 RK and sold it about a month ago. No problems with the bike to report. It is a stiffer ride though

 

I have a 99 FLHRCI with 85K miles.

Been an excellent bike, but the cam chain tensioners are an issue.

I replaced my first set around 40K miles, and the second set at 70K.

Next time I will definitely change to either the SE update or a gear drive. I like the gear drive simply for less parasitic drag and more dependable drive.

The above posters are spot on about the price, axle size, and brakes. Only thing I haven't liked about mine ...

Other than that I love my Road King.

 

The bearing replacement recall I believe has expired (and was only covered in event of failure). It would be your ticket now.

 

RobertW, inner cam bearing issue will be yours. I am there right now on my 99' Ultra. Dealer told me that the recall was "after Failure" even though they new exactly which engines had the incorrect bearings. Everything built before September 12th of that year had them is what dealer told me. They did the repair for a five year period then it yours. My ultra was owned new by my father in-law, went to dealer for everything, if he thought he heard a squeak it went in. Low air in tires...it went in. They did the master breaker recall and the neck bearing issue but They never once warned/spoke with him about the cam bearings. Until mine went kaput the bike and engine ran flawless, the little lady and I put over eight thousand miles on this scoot in eleven months. When I get it back together I will have no issue with heading across country on it.

 

There was also a "recall" for the stator shorting out. Oil from the primary case would migrate down to the connector and short it out. The fix was a cable extension that elevates the connector so oil can't get to it. They didn't tell anyone about that one either. I got lucky when my failed with the bike less than a year old.

 

I rode a '81 shovel (FXWG) for about 17 years, then I bought my '03 Road King.....the difference is unbelievable, you can ride a lot further with a ton more comfort....I will always have a soft spot for Shovels though

 

Thanks again for all the replies.

I looked at the bike this evening. Odometer shows just under 6000 miles on it (not 8000 as originally heard). This bike is spotless and all original with a sissy bar and pad added. The engine did not have the cam bearings updated. It has the original tires on it with very little wear, but showing some cracking between the tread. They would have to be replaced. I offered $8700 for the bike. He said he'll think about it.

Alabama Slammer,

I purchased my FXS new in July 1st of '81. I thought about selling it for an '09, but could not part with it. That's why I'm looking for a clean used bike with low miles. I made some changes over the years to the Lowrider and I think I'll restore it to original condition.

Bob.