If you want to improve the performance of your Harley 103, then consider upgrading the cam. But choosing the best cam upgrade for Harley 103 you need to keep in mind some essential things so that you don’t end up damaging your motorcycle.
Harley Davidson 103 cams are designed to offer increased power and torque while providing excellent fuel economy. But, to achieve these results, it’s important to select the right cam for your application properly. Improper selection can lead to engine damage, so you must make an informed decision.
Another great thing about upgrading your cam is that it can improve fuel economy. This is because a performance cam will typically have a shorter duration and less overlap, which means that the engine will spend less time in the “valve open” position. This can lead to a reduction in fuel consumption.
Well, there are many different types of performance cams available for Harley engines, so we researched and compiled our top picks for Best cam upgrade for Harley 103 below.
Best Cam Upgrade For Harley 103 – Our Top Picks
Need to review more options? well, we have spent almost 70 hours testing several cam upgrades, interviewed Harley mechanics, and read online user reviews to narrow down these top 7 cam upgrades for Harley 103 that will enhance the performance of your motorcycle. So, let’s check them one by one.
1. S&S Cycle 509G Cam Kit
S&S Cycle 509G Cam Kit is a quality product that comes with all necessary parts except pushrods. Installation instructions are clear and easy to follow. You’ll notice more response to throttle and smooth idle after installing this cam kit. However, gas millage might not be changed.
Product Review
If you are looking for top-notch quality, then this S&S Cycle 509G Cam Kit is the right option for you. It’s made in the USA from high-quality materials and it comes with a 1-year warranty.
This cam kit includes everything you need for installation, so it’s really easy to install. And, it’s also compatible with Twin Cam 99-06 models.
In terms of the RPM range, this cam kit is designed for use between 4500 RPM. So, it’s perfect for street riding as well as occasional track days.
And with opening 18 degrees and closing 18 degrees, this cam provides excellent performance. We think that this is one of the best cam upgrades for Harley.
To ensure durability and dependability, the pushrods are made from heat-treated Chromoly steel. So, you can rest assured that this cam kit will last for a long time.
The instructions that come with this cam kit are easy to follow and understand. So, you won’t have any difficulty installing it.
What We Like
- Bike more responsive to throttle & better passing power
- No worry about cam chain tensioner failure
- Kit includes all parts except pushrods
- Gears spin more freely, reducing engine workload
- Provides more power and a pronounced exhaust sound
- Quickee pushrods for easier installation
- More bottom-end grunt, useful for two-up cruising
- 509 grind for nice sound & power throughout the RPM range
- Eliminates the need for inspecting/replacing chain tensioners at 30k miles
- Basic shop tools are enough for the installation
- The intake duration is 216 degrees
- The exhaust duration is 237 degrees
What We Don’t Like
- The Cam set is noisier than stock but not bothersome to the rider
- Gas mileage may decrease due to harder riding
- Inner cam bearings need changing and puller required
- Makes a little more valve train noise at idle
2. S&S Cycle Cam 99-17 for Harley 103
S&S Cycle 93-5095 pushrods are a great choice for improving motorcycle engine performance and reliability. Pushrods are manufactured using rigid chrome molybdenum steel tubing for better performance.
The S&S cycle cam 99-17 comes up with a set of pushrods and covers that are adjustable. You can set it up according to your convenience.
This cam upgrade is compatible with Harley-Davidson Twin Cam 99-17 models. It is a great product for those who want to upgrade their cams.
With the help of its lifter kit, you can now get increased power and torque. The product comes with a set of 4 cams that are responsible for different purposes.
Moreover, this Harley cam upgrade is manufactured from steel that is hardened and tempered so that it can offer great durability. You will also find chromium plating on the cams that help in resisting corrosion.
This product is designed in such a way that it can offer excellent performance without compromising fuel economy.
What We Like
- It has high-quality pushrods
- It comes with a set of 4 cams.
- Fuel economy is not sacrificed for performance.
- Fits 99-17 Harley V-twin models
- Adjustable pushrods for easier maintenance & customization
- Includes covers for a cleaner look
- Saves time & trouble during maintenance
- Quickie pushrods work well with larger engines
- Fits various models, including 2003 FLHTCUI, 2005 Road King Custom 96″ Twin Cam, and 2014 Street Glide
- Noticeable difference compared to Harley’s counterpart
What We Don’t Like
- Installation may require a qualified mechanic for correct adjustment
- Pushrod covers may leak oil at operating temperatures
- May not be as effective as stock covers and OEM o-rings in preventing leaks
3. S&S Cycle 330-0470
It offers an excellent balance between maintaining low-end torque and providing improved high-end power making it a great option for those looking to enhance the performance of their engine while keeping the power delivery smooth and balanced.
If you are looking for an affordable and suitable cam upgrade for Harley 103, then you can consider this S&S Cycle 330-0470 MR103. The engine is designed to provide excellent fuel economy and increased power and torque.
With the help of a broad torque curve, it provides a smoother ride. The installation of this cam is quite easy and can be done by anyone with some basic knowledge of mechanics.
Apart from that, it is made from high-quality materials that offer durability and longevity. The bolt-in camshaft is designed to give you increased performance without any hassles.
Moreover, the Cams for 00-06 Twin Cam are used with stock cylinders and pistons or aftermarket equivalents with compression ratios up to 10.5:1 on pump gas.
The hydraulic tensioner of this cam ensures proper chain tension for optimum performance. Overall, it is an excellent choice and offers great value for money.
What We Like
- Offers you excellent fuel economy
- It has a Bolt in camshaft design
- Hydraulic tensioner for optimum performance
- Maintains excellent bottom torque with improved top-end power
- Maximum 585 lift for stock rockers
- Nice cam set with a good range of RPMs
What We Don’t Like
- A little low but RPMs are off idle through 5500
4. Andrews 57H Cam
The Andrews 57H cam is a high-quality camshaft designed for heavy touring bikes, offering improved horsepower and torque. It is easy to install and produces a great sound at idle, making it popular with Harley-Davidson riders.
The Andrews 57H Cam has such a wide power band, that it can be used with a stock motor and still produce great results. It produces good low-end torque and high-end horsepower.
This cam also has great mid-range power. The 57H is the most popular grind that we offer for the Dyna models. It will work with your stock head pipes, however, we recommend aftermarket headers and a free flow exhaust for best results.
The low restriction exhaust is 1700-5200 rpm which means that it will produce the most power in that range. Moreover, the splined chain drive sprocket has a nitrided finish for increased durability.
Furthermore, this cam is specially designed for Harley 103 engines. The grind is also compatible with 99-06 Twin Cam 88 engines. Please note that installation of this cam requires the use of higher rate valve springs and that you may need to reset your carburetor.
What We Like
- Wide power band and good low-end torque
- Can be used with stock head pipes
- Can be installed on both carbureted and fuel-injected models
- Noticeable improvement in performance and acceleration
- Great sound with high compression and thinner head gasket
- Suitable for riders not afraid of higher RPMs
- Good for everyday driving above 2300-2500 RPMs
- Noticeable power increase from 3000rpm up to about 5000rpm
- Combined well with an FP3
- Runs well on bikes with 96ci and 103 engines
- Provides good torque gains and wakes up the bike’s performance
What We Don’t Like
- This may require the use of higher-rate valve springs
- Requires significant fuel adjustment on the bottom end when self-tuning
- May require auto-tuning with an FP3 to even out any flat spots
5. S&S Ultimate Kit for Harley 1977-91
Excellent quality cam comes with all necessary hardware for fitting. Its internal parts are interchangeable with stock parts, making maintenance and repairs easier.
If you want to ensure that your Harley Davidson’s engine is getting the oil it needs, then you need the S&S Ultimate Kit. This kit includes everything you need to upgrade your existing oil pump to a high-performance billet pump.
The kit also comes with a high-flow filter, an oil pressure relief valve, and all of the necessary hardware for installation. This is a direct replacement for your existing oil pump, and it will work with any 1977-91 Big Twin Harley Davidson.
Moreover, the RPM range is increased with this pump, and it is also quieter and smoother than the stock pump. Installation is easy, and the kit comes with detailed instructions.
In addition, the intake and exhaust duration are increased with this pump, which leads to more power and better performance. This is the ultimate kit for anyone who wants the best possible oiling system for their Harley Davidson.
What We Like
- Upgrade your oil pump to a high-performance billet pump.
- Increases RPM range.
- Quieter and smoother than the stock pump.
- Comes with detailed instructions.
What We Don’t Like
- The price may be prohibitive for some people.
6. MBS Mfg camshaft
The two-piece set lifter removal tool is a durable and high-quality product made of stainless steel. It is intended to be simple to install and comes with detailed instructions. The product is entirely manufactured in the United States, ensuring high-quality standards.
For its outstanding features, the MBS Mfg camshaft is one of the top cam upgrades for Harley 103. It is made from high-quality materials that can withstand extreme heat and pressure.
Additionally, it is designed to increase the airflow into the engine, which results in more power and torque. The camshaft also has a higher lift and duration, further enhancing your motorcycle’s performance.
The best thing about this cam upgrade is that it is 100% made in the USA. So, you can be sure that you are getting a product of the highest quality.
Moreover, the adjustable push rods and pushrods of this camshaft allow you to customize the performance of your motorcycle according to your needs and preferences.
The magnets are also included in the package, making it easier for you to install the camshaft. Overall, this is an excellent product that is worth every penny.
What We Like
- It has 2 pieces set lifter removal tool
- Makes changing cams, adjustable push rods, and lifters easier
- Magnetic legs align with tappet block holes for easy installation
- Magnets are strong enough to hold lifters in place during installation and removal
- Saves time and avoids potential issues with lifter positioning during camshaft removal
- Useful tool for changing cams without removing tappet blocks
- Performed well and without issues
What We Don’t Like
- Magnets may not be strong enough to hold tappets securely
- Tappets may fall if not careful during use
7. Feuling 525 Twin Cam
This product is an excellent replacement for the standard camshafts. Its installation process does not require any additional effort or tools. Additionally, it significantly enhances the motorcycle’s low-end power, giving it a noticeable boost
The Feuling 525 Twin Cam is made from high-quality materials that can withstand heat and pressure. It is designed to deliver more power and torque.
With the help of bolt-on cams, you can expect an increase of up to 20% in power and torque. This cam is designed to produce more power at lower RPMs. They also provide a smoother and more efficient ride.
Moreover, this Cam comes with a chain drive system that is easy to install and does not require any special tools. It has a 1750-5800 RPM range which means that it can be used with a variety of engines.
It can be used with both stock and aftermarket heads. Plus, it produces strong low and midrange power which is perfect for street riding and cruising.
Further, it is designed to deliver more torque and power and is made from durable materials. You don’t need to worry about fitting, it can easily fit into your engine.
What We Like
- Comes with a chain drive system
- Designed to increase the torque bandwidth
- High quality engine parts fit perfectly
- Improve low-end grunt
- Nothing special needed for the install
- Improved mid-range performance
- Perfect upgrade for 99-06 chain-driven twin-cam Harleys
- Compatible with stock springs
What We Don’t Like
- Installation might be difficult for some people.
Best Cam Upgrade For Harley 103 – An Ultimate Buying Guide
The cam is one of the most important parts of your Harley 103. It’s what gives your bike its unique sound and performance. That’s why it’s important to choose the right cam for your Harley 103.
There are a few things you need to consider when choosing a cam for your Harley 103.
Torque
The first thing you need to consider is torque. The cam determines how much air and fuel your engine can suck in and compress. This ultimately affects the amount of power your engine produces. Choose a cam for Harley 103 that will give you the power you need without sacrificing too much torque.
Duration
The next thing to consider is duration. This is the amount of time that the intake and exhaust valves are open. A longer duration will allow more air and fuel into the engine, which will increase power. However, it can also cause your engine to run hotter. Choose a duration that is appropriate for the riding you do.
RPM Range
You also need to consider the RPM range of the cam. The range of speeds at which the cam will produce its peak power. Choose a Harley cam that will make peak power at the RPM range you plan on riding at.
Lift
Lift is how high the valves open about the piston. Air and fuel will enter the engine more easily with a higher lift, resulting in more power. Your engine may also run hotter as a result. Choose a lift that is appropriate for the riding you do.
Compression Ratio
The compression ratio is the ratio of the volume of the cylinder when the piston is at the bottom of its stroke to the volume of the cylinder when the piston is at the top of its stroke. Your engine’s power will increase with a higher compression ratio, but it will also run hotter. Choose a compression ratio that is appropriate for the riding you do.
Tool Accessories
Finally, you need to consider the tool accessories that come with the Harley 103 cam. These are things like pushrods, lifters, and timing chains. Make sure you get a complete set of these accessories so you can install your new cam properly.
FAQs
Conclusion
Harley 103s are a popular choice for riders looking for that classic American motorcycle feel. If you’re one of the many riders who have chosen to upgrade your bike with a 103 engine, we’ve got some Best Cam upgrade For Harley 103 for you to consider.
We’ve tested each of these cams on our own 103 and can attest to their performance and quality.
So, we recommend you choose the S&S Cycle 509G Cam Kit because it has the best performance, is easy to install, and is a great value. If you want more power without sacrificing rideability, the Andrews 57H Cam is the way to go.
Because it’s a high-lift cam, it requires some porting and valve spring upgrades to reach its full potential, but the results are worth it.
Last update on 2023-09-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
