Screamin’ Eagle 110 Engine Problems - Common Issues and Solutions

Engineered for excellence, the Screamin' Eagle 110 is a key part of Harley-Davidson's performance line-up. The unit produces big numbers from its engine with a massive amount of displacement. It also carries its brand's signature iconic styling when it comes to big bikes.

Overall, it makes for a very impressive ride but it is not without its share of issues. If you're the proud owner of a Harley-Davidson Screamin' Eagle 110 engine, you're likely to experience some of them, especially as you log longer mileage with your bike.

This article will outline some of the most frequent problems experienced by its owners and offer potential solutions for each.

A Quick Look at the Key Specs of the Screamin' Eagle 110

The Screamin' Eagle 110 engine is a massive powerplant that's been expertly made for maximum performance. As its name implies, it has a 110 ci displacement.

The engine is highlighted with its overhead valve (OHV) design with two valves per cylinder. It is air-cooled featuring a bore of 3.927 inches and a stroke of 4.374 inches to ensure optimal airflow.  Moreover, it is constructed to create a compression ratio of 10.0:1 to promote the efficient combustion of fuel, which is fed via the motorcycle's electronic sequential port fuel injection (SPFI) system. Also designed to utilize dry-sump lubrication, the engine can maintain a consistent oil level, even during high-speed operation.

The powertrain produces big power numbers that are sure to turn heads. Specifically, it is capable of generating 110 hp at 5,500 rpm and 115 lb-ft of torque at 3,750 rpm with a high redline of 6,000 rpm.

The figures are distributed via a 6-Speed Cruise Drive transmission going to a belt final drive that provides the smooth, responsive shifting and the black powder-coated powertrain with polished covers looks great. The high flow exhaust sounds amazing and the dual front disc brakes and rear disc brake provide excellent stopping power.

All these make the Screamin' Eagle 110 desirable for riders who are looking for a ride with iconic street styling elements matched with high-performance features.

Common Problems Found in the Screaming Eagle 110 Engine

Harley-Davidson motorcycles are generally known for their reliability. However, our in-depth investigation using reviews and reports concerning the Screaming Eagle 110 has uncovered the following problems commonly experienced by riders of the big bike.

1. Faulty Lifter

This commonly manifests in the older models of the series and the complaints related to them seem to have died down for the past couple of years. There are a few grievances you can find about the latest iterations of the engine if you dive into some motorcycle forums every now and then though.

The symptoms of a faulty lifter in the Screaming Eagle 110 engine include a loud tapping noise that increases in volume as the engine speed increases. The tapping noise is usually most noticeable when the motorcycle is started from a stop.

The primary cause of a noisy lifter is poor lubrication. If the oil is not getting to the tappet properly, it can cause the metal parts to wear down and create noise. The fix for this issue is to make sure that the engine is properly lubricated and that the oil is at the correct level.

A more serious cause of a noisy lifter in a Screaming Eagle 110 engine is the hydraulic tappet not working properly. The hydraulic tappet consists of a plunger and a check valve, which are responsible for controlling the clearance between the rocker arm and the valve. When the clearance becomes too large, the rocker arm will start to make noise as it hits the valve. The easiest way to fix this issue is through a hydraulic tappet replacement.

Another potential cause of a noisy lifter is an overly tight pushrod. The pushrod is responsible for opening and closing the valves. If it is too tight, it can cause the valves to stick open slightly, resulting in a tapping noise. The common solution for this issue is via a simple adjustment of the pushrod into its recommended configuration.

Finally, a noisy lifter can also be caused by an exhaust leak. An exhaust leak causes the engine to run lean, which can cause the valves to tap. Among the possible solutions for this issue is to repair the exhaust leak using a new sealant or patching up the damaged part in worse instances. However, the best fix for this is to replace the exhaust system altogether.

All these can involve plenty of meticulous work so better contact a qualified mechanic for further assistance in repairing your bike.

2. Improper Adjustment of Timing Chain

If your Screamin' Eagle 110 engine is making strange noises or isn't running as smoothly as it should, it could be due to an improperly adjusted timing chain. The signs of this include engine misfires, loss of power, increased fuel consumption, and rough idling. If left unchecked, these symptoms can lead to more serious problems such as engine damage.

The cause of an improperly adjusted timing chain is usually due to wear and tear. Over time, the chain stretches and wears down, causing it to slip out of place. This can be exacerbated by poor maintenance or incorrect installation.

There are a few ways to solve the problem of an improperly adjusted timing chain. The first is to have the chain professionally repaired. This is usually the best option, as it will ensure that the problem is fixed correctly.

Normally, the fix would only involve adjusting the tensioner to its recommended configuration. However, if the problem keeps on recurring or there's already noticeable wear in the timing chain, replacing it with a new one would be the wisest course of action. This is generally the most expensive option but will guarantee that your engine runs smoothly again.

3. Bogging Engine

If your Screaming Eagle 110 engine is bogging down or is struggling as you rev to a higher gear, there are a few potential causes. First, the fuel mixture may be too rich, meaning there's too much fuel and not enough air. This would require adjusting the carburetor. Second, the spark plugs may be faulty and need to be replaced. Third, the air filter may be dirty and is restricting airflow, which again requires a replacement.

4. Oil Leaks

It's important to be aware of the symptoms of oil leaks in your Screamin' Eagle 110 engine. Leaks can cause serious damage to your engine, so it's important to take action as soon as possible if you think there may be a problem.

Oil leaks are usually fairly easy to spot, as they will often leave a tell-tale trail of oil on the ground beneath your bike.

If you think you have an oil leak, the first thing you should do is check the level of fluid in your reservoirs. If the level is low, there's a good chance you have a leak.

Once you've confirmed that there is a leak, it's important to fix it as soon as possible. Depending on the severity of the leak, you may be able to simply tighten a loose fitting or replace a gasket. However, more serious leaks may require more extensive repairs.

If you're not sure how to fix the problem yourself, it's always best to take your bike to a qualified mechanic who can diagnose and repair the issue quickly and correctly. Trying to fix the problem yourself could make it worse and cause further damage to your engine.

Maintenance Tips for the Screamin' Eagle 110

Harley-Davidson engines, particularly the Screamin' Eagle 110, are known to last plenty of years. With proper care, the average life of the power unit is 80,000 miles until it requires an overhaul or major parts replacement.

Here are ways to expand the lifespan of your motorcycle engine:

• Regularly check and clean your air filter. A clean air filter is essential for optimal engine performance.
• Change your oil and oil filter regularly. This will help to keep your engine lubricated and running smoothly.
• Keep your fuel injection system clean. Over time, fuel injectors can become clogged with dirt and debris, which can negatively impact engine performance.
• Check and replace your spark plugs as needed. Dirty or worn-out spark plugs can cause misfires and loss of power.
• Inspect your drive belt regularly and replace them if they show signs of wear or damage. A damaged or broken drive belt can cause all sorts of problems, including loss of power and overheating.
• Keep an eye on your engine coolant level and top it off as needed. An engine that runs too hot can be damaged, so it's important to keep it properly cooled.
• Regularly check your tire pressure and inflate the tires to the proper level. Incorrect tire pressure can lead to decreased fuel economy and reduced handling performance.
• Make sure all of your fluids are at the proper levels and topped off as needed. This includes motor oil, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid.
• Pay attention to your wheels alignment and have it checked/adjusted if necessary. Poor alignment can cause premature tire wear and increased fuel consumption.
• Have your vehicle regularly serviced by a qualified technician. This will help to ensure that all systems are functioning properly and that any potential problems are caught early on.

Conclusion

Harley-Davidson big bikes are known for their iconic status, which is characterized by their easily recognizable styling, performance, and reliability. However, problems are sometimes unavoidable.

With that, we hope that you now have a good idea of what course of action should be taken if you end up encountering the most common engine issues of its Screamin' Eagle 110 model.