S&S Super E Carb Manual⁚ A Comprehensive Guide

This comprehensive guide provides detailed information on the S&S Super E carburetor, a popular aftermarket choice for Harley-Davidson motorcycles and other American v-twin engines. Whether you’re a seasoned mechanic or a novice enthusiast, this manual will equip you with the knowledge to install, tune, and maintain your S&S Super E carb for optimal performance.

Introduction

The S&S Super E carburetor is a high-performance aftermarket carburetor designed for Harley-Davidson Big Twin and Sportster models, as well as other American v-twin engines. Known for its exceptional throttle response and power delivery, the Super E has become a popular choice among motorcycle enthusiasts seeking to enhance their engine’s performance. This manual serves as a comprehensive guide to help you understand the key features, installation process, tuning techniques, and maintenance requirements of the S&S Super E carburetor.

Whether you’re a seasoned mechanic or a novice enthusiast, this manual aims to provide you with the necessary information to maximize the potential of your S&S Super E carburetor. From the initial setup to troubleshooting common issues, this guide will walk you through each step with clarity and detail. By following the instructions outlined in this manual, you can ensure that your S&S Super E carburetor is properly installed, tuned, and maintained for optimal performance and longevity.

Key Features of the S&S Super E Carb

The S&S Super E carburetor boasts several key features that contribute to its exceptional performance and user-friendliness. These features include⁚

• 1 7/8-inch Bore⁚ The Super E features a larger bore compared to stock carburetors, allowing for increased airflow and improved throttle response, particularly in the low and mid-range RPMs.
• Adjustable Components⁚ The Super E provides comprehensive adjustability, allowing for precise tuning of idle mixture, air bleed, mid-range, and high-speed jets. This flexibility enables you to fine-tune the carburetor to your specific engine and riding style.
• Accelerator Pump⁚ The Super E incorporates an adjustable accelerator pump, which provides a quick shot of fuel upon acceleration, ensuring smooth and responsive power delivery.
• Variable Enrichment/Fast Idle Device⁚ The Super E’s variable enrichment/fast idle device assists with cold starting and provides a smooth transition from cold to warm idle.
• Durability and Reliability⁚ Constructed from high-quality materials, the Super E carburetor is designed for durability and reliability, ensuring long-lasting performance.

These key features make the S&S Super E carburetor a popular choice for riders seeking to enhance their motorcycle’s performance and achieve optimal fuel efficiency.

Installation and Setup

Installing and setting up an S&S Super E carburetor involves a series of steps that require attention to detail and a basic understanding of motorcycle mechanics. Here’s a general outline of the process⁚

1. Gather the Necessary Tools and Materials⁚ Before starting the installation, ensure you have all the required tools, including screwdrivers, wrenches, and a torque wrench. You’ll also need a service manual specific to your motorcycle model, as well as the S&S Super E carburetor installation instructions.
2. Disconnect Battery and Fuel Supply⁚ For safety, always disconnect the battery and shut off the fuel petcock before working on the fuel system.
3. Remove the Stock Carburetor⁚ Carefully remove the stock carburetor from your motorcycle, following the instructions in your service manual. Pay attention to the location and orientation of all components, as you’ll need to reassemble them in the same order.
4. Install the S&S Super E Carburetor⁚ Mount the S&S Super E carburetor onto the intake manifold, ensuring a secure and snug fit. Ensure all connections are tight and that there are no leaks.
5. Connect Fuel Lines and Throttle Cable⁚ Connect the fuel lines and throttle cable to the S&S Super E carburetor, making sure all connections are secure and free of any kinks or obstructions. Refer to the S&S Super E carburetor installation instructions for specific details.
6. Initial Setup and Adjustments⁚ Once the S&S Super E carburetor is installed, you’ll need to perform initial setup and adjustments. This includes setting the idle mixture screw, idle speed screw, and accelerator pump adjustment screw to factory specifications. Consult the S&S Super E carburetor installation instructions for the recommended settings.

Remember to familiarize yourself with all procedures before beginning the installation, and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

Jetting and Tuning

Jetting and tuning an S&S Super E carburetor is a crucial step in optimizing engine performance and fuel efficiency. It involves adjusting the size of the jets, which control the amount of fuel flowing through the carburetor. This process requires careful observation and experimentation to achieve the desired results.

Start by understanding the basics of jetting⁚

• Main Jet⁚ Controls the fuel flow at higher engine speeds and under heavy throttle loads.
• Pilot Jet⁚ Controls the fuel flow at idle and low engine speeds.
• Emulsion Tube⁚ Influences the fuel/air mixture by controlling how the fuel is mixed with air.

To achieve optimal performance, you’ll need to adjust the jet sizes based on your engine’s specifications, riding conditions, and personal preferences. This involves a process of trial and error, starting with the factory recommended jet sizes and making gradual adjustments based on the engine’s behavior.

Remember, jetting is a complex process that requires patience and attention to detail. Consult an experienced mechanic or refer to the S&S Super E carburetor tuning guide for specific instructions and guidance on how to adjust the jets and achieve optimal performance.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

While the S&S Super E carburetor is known for its reliability and performance, you may encounter some common issues that require troubleshooting. Here are some of the most frequent problems and their potential solutions⁚

• Difficulty Starting⁚ This could be caused by a clogged pilot jet, a faulty accelerator pump, or incorrect idle mixture settings. Inspect the pilot jet for blockages, check the accelerator pump for proper operation, and adjust the idle mixture screw.
• Rough Idle⁚ A rough idle may indicate a clogged pilot jet, a faulty idle mixture screw, or an air leak in the intake manifold. Clean the pilot jet, adjust the idle mixture screw, and inspect the intake manifold for any cracks or leaks.
• Poor Acceleration⁚ Slow acceleration can result from a clogged main jet, a faulty accelerator pump, or incorrect jetting for your engine size and riding conditions. Clean the main jet, check the accelerator pump, and adjust the jet sizes accordingly.
• Backfiring⁚ Backfiring can be caused by a lean fuel mixture, a faulty ignition system, or an air leak. Check the jetting for a lean condition, inspect the ignition system for proper operation, and look for air leaks in the intake manifold.

Always start with the simplest troubleshooting steps first and work your way up to more complex solutions. If you are unsure about the cause of a problem, consult a qualified motorcycle mechanic for assistance.

Performance Benefits

The S&S Super E carburetor is renowned for its ability to significantly enhance the performance of your motorcycle. Its design features and tunability offer a number of advantages over stock carburetors, resulting in a noticeable improvement in power, throttle response, and overall rideability.

• Increased Horsepower and Torque⁚ The Super E’s larger venturi and optimized airflow deliver a more efficient fuel-air mixture, leading to increased horsepower and torque throughout the rev range, particularly at lower RPMs.
• Improved Throttle Response⁚ The adjustable accelerator pump and precise jetting provide a snappier throttle response, allowing for quicker acceleration and a more responsive ride.
• Smoother Idle⁚ The Super E’s design and adjustable idle mixture screw contribute to a smoother and more stable idle, eliminating the erratic behavior often experienced with stock carburetors.
• Enhanced Fuel Efficiency⁚ While primarily designed for performance, the Super E can also improve fuel efficiency when properly tuned, thanks to its optimized fuel delivery and precise jetting.

The performance benefits of the S&S Super E carburetor are readily apparent, making it a popular choice for riders seeking to unlock the full potential of their motorcycles.

Maintenance and Care

Proper maintenance is crucial for ensuring the longevity and optimal performance of your S&S Super E carburetor. By following these guidelines, you can keep your carb running smoothly and avoid potential issues.

• Regular Cleaning⁚ Periodically clean the carburetor using a carburetor cleaning kit and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Pay particular attention to the jets, venturi, and other internal components to remove any accumulated dirt or debris.
• Inspect and Replace Gaskets⁚ Inspect the carburetor’s gaskets for signs of wear or damage; Replace any worn or damaged gaskets to prevent leaks and ensure a proper seal.
• Lubricate Moving Parts⁚ Lubricate the throttle shaft and other moving parts with a suitable lubricant to prevent corrosion and ensure smooth operation.
• Check Float Level⁚ Ensure the float level is properly adjusted according to the manufacturer’s specifications. An incorrect float level can lead to fuel-related issues.
• Storage⁚ If storing the carburetor for an extended period, it’s recommended to drain the fuel bowl and store it in a clean and dry environment to prevent corrosion.

By following these maintenance tips, you can ensure your S&S Super E carburetor remains in top condition, delivering reliable performance and a satisfying ride.

Safety Precautions

Working with gasoline and motorcycle components requires a high degree of caution. Always prioritize safety when handling your S&S Super E carburetor and related parts. Here are some essential safety precautions to follow⁚

• Fire Hazards⁚ Gasoline is highly flammable. Work in a well-ventilated area, away from open flames and heat sources. Keep a fire extinguisher readily accessible.
• Eye Protection⁚ Wear safety glasses or goggles to protect your eyes from flying debris or fuel spills.
• Hand Protection⁚ Use gloves to protect your hands from gasoline and potential sharp edges.
• Fuel Handling⁚ Handle gasoline carefully and avoid spills. Store gasoline in approved containers and follow all safety guidelines.
• Electrical Connections⁚ Disconnect the battery before working on any electrical components, including the carburetor.
• Proper Tools⁚ Use appropriate tools for the task at hand. Avoid using tools that are not designed for specific components.

Always refer to the motorcycle’s service manual for specific safety guidelines and warnings related to the carburetor installation and maintenance.

S&S Super E Carb vs. Other Carburetors

The S&S Super E carburetor stands out among other aftermarket options due to its performance-oriented design and reputation for delivering significant power gains. Here’s a comparison of the Super E to other popular carburetors⁚

• Stock Carburetors⁚ The S&S Super E offers superior performance over stock carburetors, often resulting in noticeable improvements in horsepower and torque, particularly in the mid-range and high-rpm ranges.
• Other Aftermarket Carburetors⁚ Compared to other aftermarket carburetors, the Super E is known for its smooth throttle response, adjustable settings, and overall reliability. However, the choice between different aftermarket carbs often depends on specific engine modifications, desired performance characteristics, and personal preferences.
• Fuel Injection⁚ While fuel injection systems are becoming increasingly popular, the S&S Super E carb remains a viable option for those seeking a more traditional and tunable setup. Some enthusiasts appreciate the control and responsiveness offered by a well-tuned carburetor.

Ultimately, the best carburetor choice depends on your specific needs and riding style. Consult with experienced mechanics or forums for guidance on selecting the right carburetor for your motorcycle.