s&s super e jetting chart

3 min read 02-12-2024

Meta Description: Unlock the secrets to perfect carburetor jetting for your S&S Super E! This comprehensive guide covers jetting charts, troubleshooting, and tips for optimal performance. Learn how to achieve peak power and efficiency with your Super E carburetor. Get ready to ride smoother and stronger! (158 characters)

Understanding Your S&S Super E Carburetor

The S&S Super E carburetor is a popular choice among motorcycle enthusiasts for its performance and reliability. However, achieving optimal performance requires proper jetting. Jetting refers to the size of the jets within the carburetor, which control the fuel/air mixture. Getting this right is crucial for engine power, fuel efficiency, and smooth running.

Why Jetting is Crucial

Incorrect jetting can lead to a variety of problems, including:

Poor fuel economy: A rich or lean mixture wastes fuel and reduces mileage.
Poor performance: A lean mixture can cause engine damage. A rich mixture leads to sluggishness and loss of power.
Hard starting: Improper jetting makes starting difficult, especially in cold weather.
Backfiring: An overly lean mixture can cause backfires, potentially damaging your engine.

Finding the Right S&S Super E Jetting Chart

Unfortunately, there's no single "perfect" S&S Super E jetting chart. The ideal jetting depends on several factors:

Engine modifications: High-compression pistons, performance cams, and other modifications will significantly alter jetting needs.
Altitude: Higher altitudes require different jetting than sea level. The air is thinner at higher altitudes, requiring richer mixtures.
Climate: Temperature and humidity also affect the air/fuel mixture. Hot, humid air is denser than cold, dry air, affecting the ideal jetting.
Air cleaner: The type of air cleaner (e.g., open element vs. stock) changes airflow and thus influences jetting. Open elements typically need richer mixtures.
Exhaust system: Similar to air cleaners, changes to the exhaust affect back pressure and require adjustments to the fuel mixture.

Where to Find Jetting Charts

While a universal chart is impractical, you can find helpful starting points:

S&S Cycle's website: Check the S&S Cycle website for general guidelines and recommendations. They may have some basic charts for stock setups.
Motorcycle forums: Online forums dedicated to your specific motorcycle model are invaluable resources. Experienced riders often share their jetting setups and troubleshooting advice.
Performance shops: Local motorcycle performance shops can provide guidance based on your specific setup and riding conditions. They may have access to more detailed jetting charts or dynamometer testing capabilities.

Troubleshooting Your S&S Super E Jetting

Even with a jetting chart, you may need to fine-tune your carburetor. Here's how to identify problems:

1. How does my engine run?

Lean Mixture Symptoms: Poor acceleration, overheating, pinging (detonation), high idle speed, hard starting.
Rich Mixture Symptoms: Sluggish acceleration, black smoke from the exhaust, fouled spark plugs, rough idle.

2. Spark Plug Check:

Examine your spark plugs. The color of the insulator provides valuable clues:

White/Gray: Lean mixture
Brown/Tan: Ideal mixture
Black/Sooty: Rich mixture

3. Adjusting the Jetting:

Leaning the mixture: Increase the main jet size or the pilot jet size (for idle).
Riching the mixture: Decrease the main jet size or the pilot jet size.

Important Note: Always make small adjustments (one size at a time) and test thoroughly before making further changes. Sudden and drastic changes can damage your engine.

Beyond the Chart: Fine-Tuning Your S&S Super E

Once you have a baseline jetting based on a chart or recommendation, you'll likely need to fine-tune it. This often involves iterative adjustments based on your riding style and environmental conditions. Consider these factors:

Dynamometer testing: A dyno test provides precise measurements of your engine's performance at different jetting settings. This is the most accurate way to optimize jetting.
Experienced tuner: A professional carburetor tuner can provide invaluable assistance in getting your jetting perfect.

Conclusion: Mastering Your S&S Super E Jetting

Mastering the art of S&S Super E jetting takes time and patience. Start with a reputable jetting chart as a baseline. Pay close attention to your engine's behavior and make adjustments as needed. Remember to always prioritize safe and gradual adjustments. With careful attention and some experimentation, you can achieve optimal performance and enjoy the smooth power delivery your S&S Super E is capable of. Remember, regular maintenance and monitoring are crucial for maintaining peak performance over time.