I replaced the inner cam bearing on my 99 Softail Custom when it had 23,000 on it just for peace of mind. I replaced it with the full roller Torrington but kept the stock cam. I used Harley adjustable push rods to make the job easier. Now for the funnies. I had it all back together when I noticed the cork gaskets that should have been installed on the bottom of the push rod covers. I now have a lot of experience of adjusting the push rod length. LOL. I now have 65,000 on it with no problems. Since I do not have a lift, I did it all on the floor. Thank God for the reliability of the EVO as I am 83 years old now, and it is getting harder to do much on the floor any more. I still change all my fluids, plugs, and just replaced the battery yesterday. But a stock EVO is fairly reliable. I have always enjoyed doing my own work so I have no one to blame if it is not right but me. Great video. It brought back memories. I was 70 years old when I did mine. Took me most of a day as I am slow, meticulous, and recheck everything. I noticed you are also meticulous, but not so slow.
@@tomdillon6758 I have a large sheet of cardboard I lay on the floor, and work from it. I can still do most things as far as normal maintenance, but I have an Indy shop a half mile from my house, and I just had him replace the front and rear tires and put in new bearings. I use to do that also, but no more. I do have a fairly good motorcycle jack. I have learned to pick my jobs and let others do the other stuff. It is what we do to keep riding which I still love. Started when I was 8 years old on Whizzer motor bikes. Bought my first Harley, a 1942 "45" flat head when I was 14 in 1955. I still miss that one. Hand shift foot clutch seemed normal to me.
Mr. Mike, Mr. Jim: technically engaging and humorously entertaining. Thank you, thank you very much. Love the channel and try to lay off the Skip Ad button. You are welcome.
My Cometic top end set will be delivered in a couple of hours! Music is on, raining and cool in my shop in Mobile, Al, gonna be a GOOD day! Great video as usual Mike! Y’all be safe! See y’all out on the road!
This engine job is coming along well. It won't be long now......Said the cat about his tail under the lawn mower.! Jim is going to love that extra power and hear that beautiful exhaust sound after ignition timing is dialed in!
Only been following for a few months but this is the ONLY channel for which I have the notification bell enabeld! haha Always exited to see what Mike is up to now, Keep on doing the good stuff Mike&Mike. Bless your souls.
Step by step. Inch by Inch lb. We build the Evo motor (engine) I love to watch Sensei Pacific Mike work. He's got an awesome set of tools! A tool for every job, and a job for every tool. And all hand tools, so no stripped thread's...😎 .
I think I’ve told you. I have a 1997 Flstf. And I learned something today. On counter 6:10 of your video. You showed me that I have a plate on the bottom of the cam cover. Below the dyna brand timing unit. I verified it, and I do. And now I know why it’s there. So, thank you.
@@pacificmike9501 a bit better today 86 at 10:30 am and ran out to the Mesa forkseals 👌 “e” fork oil better ride than screaming eagle oil - I likes -👍👌✊🏻
this video gives me the vibe of "The Bob Ross of Motorcycle Repair"....gonna put some happy little cams here, some proper lifters over there...very soothing and educational..😉
I’ve really been enjoying this series, and watching every one. I hope to see you do a Twin Cam Softail, and as always, still hoping that Springer gets on your lift for a service.
I really believe in amber passing Iights. Been doing it for over 30 years and never a Left Hand Charlie or a Pull Outer. All in Provinces and States except 4 in each one! The amber gets their attention which is a life saver!
When prepping the lifter blocks I inspect the counterbores to assure that there are no flares or flash from the bottom of the counterbore seat into the hole caused by the head of SHCS (bolts) that might intefere with the alignmen tools (tapered shank). Simply match drilling from the back side witl a drill of the exact same size will correct this if needed. I have seen these holes with obstructions in both the steel and alum lifter blocks. Cheers to all.
Hey Mike, I have a 97 eco big twin with a leaky left main seal. Can you show some tricks to replace the dang thing? I love the show. Keep up the good work.
Awesome work Mike. I miss my 13 fatboy lo I had, but my 03 roadking I have now is a pretty special machine. Mike can i ask a question, in your opinion, I have a bassani 2 into 1 on my road king now and it runs amazing, but I'm missing my duals with the bark of the mufflers...would I loose alot of torque going back to duals?...
Probably not. You may shift the power band a little and actually have a little more low end torque. You won't know 'til you try. It could go either way.
Please time this motor with a timing light. There aren't very many knowledgeable videos showing the correct way how to do that. Thanks Mike! Harley John
Mike, you have a great series on the EVO. I have been watching the build several times as I am waiting for my heads to come back from Branch O'Keefe and for the first time, I am going to do it myself. Everything is very clear, but I have one question for you. Between porting, valve job, pistons etc...money is running tight. How can I tell if a lifter is worn and needs replaced? Thank you in advance for your help.
Usually, "worn" means the roller is worn out (there should be NO up and down movement in the roller and it should be perfectly smooth.. Or the lifter could collapse internally. I don't know how many miles you have on your motor. Do you have original lifters? With all the money you're spending, you need to protect that investment. If the lifters are questionable, replace them with a good high performance, aftermarket set. Are you changing the cam and cam bearing?
Great series, thanks Mike! Quick question. [hope this wasn't answered already and I missed it] Are you re-installing the same lifters in Jims bike? What is your thoughts on mileage life for Evo lifters? Some of these guys are changing them at 60k miles for some reason. Thanks, Frank
It's a great idea. The originals do seem to have a "limited lifespan." When they come apart, there can be a lot of damage from debris going through the engine. I put new "Jim's Machine" lifters in Jim's bike a while back. Not many miles on them.
Hi Mike hope you doing great today.I have a question regarding valve springs and pressures, Im installing an EV46 cam 10:1 pistons and new lifters in my 85 FXR. I would also like to replace my 37 year old OEM valve springs, but am not sure which valve springs to purchase. The EV46 has a lift of .495" and andrews states to use OEM springs, but i cannot find OEM EVO springs anywhere mostly springs for higher lift cams. Im not familiar with working valve spring pressures so would like to just see if im on the right track. Looking in my service manual its says for open valve spring a range from 183-207lbs. So should i be looking for valves springs with seat pressure between those values? I dont include the inner spring pressure when choosing valve springs? Sorry for the newbie question, but with your great videos, my build is coming together nicely.
That EV46 cam is made to work in a stock motor. A good set of name brand replacement springs would be great. Using an Andrews cam, probably Andrews springs. It is a mild setup.
Mike, off topic on the Evo. I am just finishing on a 83 shovel upper rebuild. Cylinders bored .020. New pistons and rings. Valve job on the heads. Everything else spec out. Now the question. On a start-up, is there anything you do to check before firing it up. I know what my compression was before the tear down both warm & cold. Would that be a good idea to check compression before firing it. Would that let me know things like valve timing, odd noises while cranking. etc. Would a leak down check also check things. Probably overthinking things. LOL thanks
You're definitely overthinking. But, better safe than sorry. If you've adjusted your valves (and I can only assume you have hydraulic lifters), spin your engine over by its starter (with the sparkplugs out) to make sure the lifters are pumped up. Make sure oil is returning to your oil tank. If anything does not go well, you can trouble shoot at that point. I always turn the engine over by hand with everything adjusted and with the spark plugs out. Then, I give the float bowl time to fill. Then I start it. It's always exciting. I never get over it. Take your time. Enjoy it. Run the engine for a few heat cycles. Retorque the heads when the engine returns to cold. Again, Have Fun
Hi Mike,just brought a 1975 flh from florida too scotland.Probobly been 4months to arrive.It sumpded out a nasty brown oily goo.i have now got it nice clean oil after using n flushing with 6 ltrs of 20w50. No straight 60 here.i took it for a little spin and its hicuping no control over throttle to carb.i never drained the tank of old fuel just added 5 litres of new.have i gummed the carb up? Many thanks Mike love the channel.
Without seeing it, I have no idea. How clean are the tanks? You might want to drain and clean them. You ought to add a nice washable fuel filter. Or, if it doesn't seem bad, just keep adding fresh fuel 'til it straightens out. I also don't know what your fuel is like in Scotland. You may need to do some tuning. I don't know what you're using for a carburetor. Sounds like fun. You will sort it out. And, it will be great.
@@pacificmike9501 Thanks its an s+s super B.I may have topped up with a bit too much oil hence the big spot out?hope i havnt damaged the old girl.Unleaded petrol over here not sure of octane.Why do i have to always learn from mistakes😂
Because you're human. We all suffer from the same condition. It's just "time in." Super B's just require proper jetting. "SSCycle" is the web site. They give very complete instructions. Too much oil? Drain some out. It may continue to push more out through the breather hose until the system balances itself out. Start it with a pan underneath. If it's in good shape, it won't go on for very long and it will get happy and stop doing that.
Hey Mike I have really enjoyed the training video's you post for me to wrench on my 97 Titan Evo motor. I truly appreciate you and your time putting these video's together for us to enjoy. I had a mishap after finishing up my cam replacement. All new pushrods (quickie) and lifters to complete the job and future replacements (if I need too). My mishap was forgetting the darn breather bushing. It was a week or so before I noticed as the bushing is the metal version that I mistook for an extra washer from the intake cover. I took so long to figure it out based on discovering a faulty coil I had to replace. Anyway, I am just curious if I have caused any damage that will not be resolved by simply re-installing, with the bushing this time? I have put about 60 miles on the bike since the replacement of the cam.
If it looked okay, if the breather gear wasn't damaged, if the cam cover wasn't damaged... If you looked it all over and question it, have a pro look at it. There's no shame in not being sure, anyone can make a mistake.
great video mike.im putting a woods w6 in my 92 evo.whats if any clearance should I hv when installing it.installing new tappets also an bearing.ty again Mike great information
I would go by the service manual unless introducing other than stock parts. I'm sure Mr. Woods makes his recommendations. I would certainly go by that.
Yes they are if you have a newer Shovelhead. Shovelhead tappet block screws were 1/4 X 24 originally. After 1973, they changed to 1/4 X 20. The tools are 1/4 X 20. Be sure you know that before you screw a tool into the wrong thread pitch and...
Hey mike . Enjoy your videos. Very informative. I replaced the rocker box gaskets on my 117 S&S mtr. . It’s in my 2004 Bigdog. Before I replace the rocker arm assy’s, is there a front and rear. I may have mixed them up when I put them on my bench.
The rear exhaust is the same as the front intake. The rear intake is the same as the front exhaust. Now put them on their shafts and see how they feel. You'll probably feel any slight differences.
Why do some folks soak the lifters in oil before assembly? Did Mike do this before putting them in the lifter boxes? It looks like not. So is it an unnecessary step?
You gotta have a place to sit. A servicar for dinner? Why not? I lived in a warehouse. My buddy Stevie, built me a beautiful 360 degree rotating stand that we bolted to the kitchen floor. You apparently understand.
Do you know why a evo engine lost is oil pressur and gaz smelling smoke come out the crankcase breather and when cool down the pressur is back to normal and no more smoke out the breather ?
Hi mike, I’ve been watching your videos, just gaining knowledge. I’m about to replace the cam bearing in my 98 evo, don’t plan on upgrading cam or anything. I was just curious if measuring end play needs to be measured, or any of the additional steps when re installing the original cam? It will be my first time opening the cam chest on any of my bikes.
Go with your service manual. Since you're keeping the original cam, I assume you're keeping the original lifters and pushrods. In this case, follow the procedures in the book and be sure you inspect your lifters carefully.
@@pacificmike9501 thank yo Lu for the reply. I recently bought the bike, and of course there was no manual. I did plan to replace the lifters along with the cam bearing. but was hoping to keep original cam as well as pushrods.
Be sure and buy a serrvice manual. Any time I've taken a cam out of a late Evo like yours, I threw it away. Consider a nice mild replacement. You'll be glad you did.
What were you doing with your fingers as you put the lifter blocks with lifters in their bores to assemble?I saw a video by late nite v twin, and he set the lifters in n then the lifter blocks. Of course it was a M8 motor and they had holders by s&s to keep the lifters parallel to the cam.
@@pacificmike9501 Right on, I watch a lot of your vids and I went looking for the video that had all the specs of the evo build but I couldn't seem to find it. I live just down the street from Truitt & Osborn here in Wichita. I'm going to have to call the lease on my knucklehead I've leased to you lol, it's time that baby came home lol lol I'd almost give up a testicle for that scooter . . . Thanks . . . BRIAN
Good afternoon Mike. The question I have is where do I find one of those double headed magnets that you used to keep the lifters from falling into the camchest ? Thank you.
I apologize. I called around and can't find those magnets. I don't know if anyone is still producing them. Most people use paper clips. I've forgotten how long ago I got those tools. It was probably right after Evos came out.
The tappet alignment tool was designed to hold the tappet bocks in their perfect position on Evo motors. It's a good idea. It is a tapered tool so it really does locate that tappet block correctly. Necessary? Not really sure, but a good idea.
I've been complaining about the power of my 97 FXD after riding my pops 04 1700 roadstar midnight Silverado. I know there is a bit of size difference but just wondering what do I need to do to get up closer to 100hp.
@@pacificmike9501 oh I know it. Not saying I would stick with 80in though. I'm fine with boring out to a larger size. Just curious what all would need to happen to get me up closer to 100hp. 90s would be ok too.lol
I built that bike for Jim, after he crashed years ago. Jim is one of my best friends. That's why I work on it. That's why we hand picked every piece of it together.
@@pacificmike9501 did you not see the wink? I can tell ya'll are close. I had a friend like you, but he is deceased now. I learned a lot from him. Great friend. Still miss him.
I understand. The friendships that develop when we build things together is something truly special. That's one of the reasons I invite you to come along. It's not the same as hanging out together, but it's the closest to it I can get.
Thank You. I'm hoping things will loosen up some more. So many events got cancelled. Finally, the "Born Free" show is scheduled for August. I think things are looking up. I miss the interaction with all the vendors and just plain old bikers, like myself.
Line up the marks on the gears. The pinion gear timing mark should be streaight up. Then install the cam gear, then the breather gear with its timing mark. You should definitely review all of this in your year and model specific HD Service manual. This is not the place to mess up. You are into a very expensive motor.
@pacificmike9501 Thanks for the fast response..Mike. And thanks for all the great Evo videos. I wish I had all the knowledge (and tools) that you have. I have a 1998 Harley-Davidson Road King Classic with a 121,000 miles on it. It has the Magnetti Marrelli fuel injection which has always gotten a bad rap..I was going to change over to a carburetor and went to Ed's Harley-Davidson in Decatur, Indiana and when Ed saw the mileage...he said he thought I should not put a carburetor on since it's gone this far with the fuel injection. It still runs beautifully but I have been thinking about the cam upgrade. Thanks again, I appreciate you.
I agree. A Magnetti Marrelli that runs well and is totally dependable should not be messed with. Very few people are proficient at trouble shooting them. Changing to a carburetor is a pretty long-winded project. The last one of those I did, although quite successful, was quite costly. I changed the entire wiring harness and installed a complete modern electronic ignition, a carburetor and manifold, and modified the gas tank. Doesn't sound like a lot, but it is.
@pacificmike9501 It does sound like a lot of work to me to change over to a carburetor. I found an independent dealer who like you knows how to work on nearly every Harley-Davidson ever produced. Most of the dealerships that I went to before I found Ed's Harley-Davidson said they prefer not to work on bikes that are over 10 years old. I'm thinking it's probably because technicians these days don't learn how to work on the older bikes. I've had my bike for 10 years now and have learned to take care of most issues I've had on my own. Most of those issues have been sensors...cam position sensor, crank position sensor and throttle position sensor. I'm a little hesitant when it comes to installing a new cam,but I would like to upgrade the cam. Thanks for your knowledge and willingness to share with everyone online.
I understand the desire for a cam. I hope your system is set up with some sort of a tuneable module. Otherwise, you may not be able to adjust your tuning to your satisfaction with the cam change.
Everyone has their own preferences. You're looking for a "drop in" cam. In other words, a cam that won't require any modifications. There are a whole lot of brands out there. Andrews makes some and so does Competition Cam, S&S, lots of people. I don't know what you would like. Read what they all advertise to do.
The cam I put into that bike had way more lift than you could install without modifying the heads. These heads were very heavily modified. However a much milder version would be a Dave Mackie 500, available from Dave Mackie Engineering in Ventura Ca. They have a website.
Buddy Jim has the patience of a Saint. You know he's watching, thinking, I Can't Wait to Ride it!
You got that right!
Everyone has but those who haven't, I had to reply. Mike .thank you 😊 for your time.
You know it brother
I replaced the inner cam bearing on my 99 Softail Custom when it had 23,000 on it just for peace of mind. I replaced it with the full roller Torrington but kept the stock cam. I used Harley adjustable push rods to make the job easier.
Now for the funnies. I had it all back together when I noticed the cork gaskets that should have been installed on the bottom of the push rod covers. I now have a lot of experience of adjusting the push rod length. LOL.
I now have 65,000 on it with no problems. Since I do not have a lift, I did it all on the floor. Thank God for the reliability of the EVO as I am 83 years old now, and it is getting harder to do much on the floor any more. I still change all my fluids, plugs, and just replaced the battery yesterday. But a stock EVO is fairly reliable. I have always enjoyed doing my own work so I have no one to blame if it is not right but me.
Great video. It brought back memories. I was 70 years old when I did mine. Took me most of a day as I am slow, meticulous, and recheck everything. I noticed you are also meticulous, but not so slow.
I'm pretty slow. I try to think things through and carefully set up for the job I'm about to video. We'll both keep keepin' on.
72 and I'm Camming my evo right now. EV27. Finally bought a lift table, Wow! Couldn't have done this job on my shot knees.
@@tomdillon6758 I have a large sheet of cardboard I lay on the floor, and work from it. I can still do most things as far as normal maintenance, but I have an Indy shop a half mile from my house, and I just had him replace the front and rear tires and put in new bearings. I use to do that also, but no more. I do have a fairly good motorcycle jack.
I have learned to pick my jobs and let others do the other stuff. It is what we do to keep riding which I still love. Started when I was 8 years old on Whizzer motor bikes. Bought my first Harley, a 1942 "45" flat head when I was 14 in 1955. I still miss that one. Hand shift foot clutch seemed normal to me.
Mike I cure love your videos reminded me when I rode the older scooters
I get it. Old scooters = an earlier time.
Gotta love that Assembly Lube......Crankcase KY.
Yep.
Thank you for sharing. To all of you in the shop, Happy Motor-Happy life.
Same to you!
😊
Mr. Mike, Mr. Jim: technically engaging and humorously entertaining. Thank you, thank you very much. Love the channel and try to lay off the Skip Ad button. You are welcome.
Right on.
Awesome, thank you!
👍😊
My Cometic top end set will be delivered in a couple of hours! Music is on, raining and cool in my shop in Mobile, Al, gonna be a GOOD day! Great video as usual Mike! Y’all be safe! See y’all out on the road!
Sounds great!
This engine job is coming along well. It won't be long now......Said the cat about his tail under the lawn mower.! Jim is going to love that extra power and hear that beautiful exhaust sound after ignition timing is dialed in!
Yep. Thank You
Only been following for a few months but this is the ONLY channel for which I have the notification bell enabeld! haha Always exited to see what Mike is up to now, Keep on doing the good stuff Mike&Mike. Bless your souls.
Awesome! Thank you!
😊
Mike you made that CAM install look easy, gotta love those JIMS BEARING TOOLS. Have a blessed week my friends.
Thanks, you too!
You truly enjoy the time and patience it takes for this type of work. A pleasure to watch someone with a passion for motorcycles. ✌
Thank you very much!
Great job I love the great show
Thank You
Mike you amaze me so calm and meticulous awesome job
Thank You
I used an Ultima single fire ignition in my 97. Very good. Your videos are awesome.
Thank you!
Step by step. Inch by Inch lb. We build the Evo motor (engine) I love to watch Sensei Pacific Mike work. He's got an awesome set of tools! A tool for every job, and a job for every tool. And all hand tools, so no stripped thread's...😎
.
Wow! Thank You
Thanks so much for your videos. Learning so much about these Evo engines.
Glad you like them!
I admire you calmness while putting ignition module in. I would of been up to the letter z in foul language by then!! Nice job Mike!
Glad you liked it!
Rushing that job has cost me plenty!
I think I’ve told you. I have a 1997 Flstf. And I learned something today. On counter 6:10 of your video. You showed me that I have a plate on the bottom of the cam cover. Below the dyna brand timing unit. I verified it, and I do. And now I know why it’s there. So, thank you.
Glad to show it. Thank You
I'm impressed not 1 beep while installing ignition module.
Yah, I try.
😊
A bigger cam is definitely in the future plans for my 88. Very informative video once again. Especially the cam end play check.
If that's a twin cam, it's a whole different animal.
@@pacificmike9501 its a 1988 electra glide police special
Cool. That's a good one.
New fork seals today; garage got too 🥵 trying to stay busy -
Nice vid mike -
Much thanks fer tips !!!
✊🏻👍👌🙏👋
Yes, it's hard to get going in this heat. Try to stay cool.
@@pacificmike9501 yes sir ; ✊🏻👍👌
@@pacificmike9501 a bit better today 86 at 10:30 am and ran out to the Mesa forkseals 👌 “e” fork oil better ride than screaming eagle oil - I likes -👍👌✊🏻
this video gives me the vibe of "The Bob Ross of Motorcycle Repair"....gonna put some happy little cams here, some proper lifters over there...very soothing and educational..😉
Thank You.
Great job Mike, 😎 motor going to be strong 💪
Thank You. And, yes it is.
Great job Mike , 👍
Thanks 👍
Your outstanding mike just outstanding..🍻😎🇺🇸
Thank You
Thank you for your knowledge Happy Easter God Bless🙏
Thank You for watching and Happy Easter to you and yours.
I’ve really been enjoying this series, and watching every one. I hope to see you do a Twin Cam Softail, and as always, still hoping that Springer gets on your lift for a service.
More to come!
Great video Mike learning lots. Cheers
Thanks 👍
Hope to see the flathead soon.
Me too. Catching up on things that need to be done.
Hey mike i know you have alot of stuff goin on but when are we getting back to the dream bike build? Really stoked on that series
Me too!.. It won't be long.
I really believe in amber passing Iights. Been doing it for over 30 years and never a Left Hand Charlie or a Pull Outer. All in Provinces and States except 4 in each one! The amber gets their attention which is a life saver!
Good point.
👍 it's looking really nice
Love it!
Thanks 👍
You are doing a great job.
Thank you!
😊
Thank you
You're welcome
When prepping the lifter blocks I inspect the counterbores to assure that there are no flares or flash from the bottom of the counterbore seat into the hole caused by the head of SHCS (bolts) that might intefere with the alignmen tools (tapered shank). Simply match drilling from the back side witl a drill of the exact same size will correct this if needed. I have seen these holes with obstructions in both the steel and alum lifter blocks. Cheers to all.
Thank You.
Feel it one more time lmao
You bet.
😁
HOWDY MIKE,
CaM Chest & LIFTERS ... "Part-B"
Thanks
COOP
..............................................................
Thank You
Hey Mike, I have a 97 eco big twin with a leaky left main seal. Can you show some tricks to replace the dang thing? I love the show. Keep up the good work.
I believe we've shown that. Go to our UA-cam homepage. Click on "Playlists." Check out the group of them under "Evo Motor Disassembly and Rebuild."
Good video for this. Newton meters had to use on Airbus. Haven't used on my Shovelhead.
That's cool. Thank You.
Newton meters are always a rip off, over here three Isaacs will only give you twenty minutes on Saturdays.
Ty here too
Thank You
Awesome work Mike. I miss my 13 fatboy lo I had, but my 03 roadking I have now is a pretty special machine. Mike can i ask a question, in your opinion, I have a bassani 2 into 1 on my road king now and it runs amazing, but I'm missing my duals with the bark of the mufflers...would I loose alot of torque going back to duals?...
Probably not. You may shift the power band a little and actually have a little more low end torque. You won't know 'til you try. It could go either way.
@@pacificmike9501 ...thank you for responding Mike.....what do you prefer on a bike, 2 into 1 or a true dual system?
Love this Evo series. One question: what is the tell-tale sign when an Evo bottom end needs re-building?
Same as any other Harley, except twin cams. Without removing it from the engine, it's a "feel thing" with the top end removed.
Really enjoyable watching these series of videos,which do you prefer single cam or twin cam and for what reason Mike👍
OK ! You expounded after I submitted my comment ! 👍
Okay.
looking forward that thang making smoke
Coming up soon.
Please time this motor with a timing light. There aren't very many knowledgeable videos showing the correct way how to do that.
Thanks Mike!
Harley John
Hard to do. These I just "static time," then program on the computer.
👍👍 🇨🇦
Thank You
Mike, you have a great series on the EVO. I have been watching the build several times as I am waiting for my heads to come back from Branch O'Keefe and for the first time, I am going to do it myself. Everything is very clear, but I have one question for you. Between porting, valve job, pistons etc...money is running tight. How can I tell if a lifter is worn and needs replaced? Thank you in advance for your help.
Usually, "worn" means the roller is worn out (there should be NO up and down movement in the roller and it should be perfectly smooth.. Or the lifter could collapse internally. I don't know how many miles you have on your motor. Do you have original lifters? With all the money you're spending, you need to protect that investment. If the lifters are questionable, replace them with a good high performance, aftermarket set. Are you changing the cam and cam bearing?
Great series, thanks Mike! Quick question. [hope this wasn't answered already and I missed it] Are you re-installing the same lifters in Jims bike? What is your thoughts on mileage life for Evo lifters? Some of these guys are changing them at 60k miles for some reason. Thanks, Frank
It's a great idea. The originals do seem to have a "limited lifespan." When they come apart, there can be a lot of damage from debris going through the engine. I put new "Jim's Machine" lifters in Jim's bike a while back. Not many miles on them.
@@pacificmike9501 Thanks Mike.
You bet.
Hi Mike hope you doing great today.I have a question regarding valve springs and pressures, Im installing an EV46 cam 10:1 pistons and new lifters in my 85 FXR. I would also like to replace my 37 year old OEM valve springs, but am not sure which valve springs to purchase. The EV46 has a lift of .495" and andrews states to use OEM springs, but i cannot find OEM EVO springs anywhere mostly springs for higher lift cams. Im not familiar with working valve spring pressures so would like to just see if im on the right track.
Looking in my service manual its says for open valve spring a range from 183-207lbs. So should i be looking for valves springs with seat pressure between those values? I dont include the inner spring pressure when choosing valve springs?
Sorry for the newbie question, but with your great videos, my build is coming together nicely.
That EV46 cam is made to work in a stock motor. A good set of name brand replacement springs would be great. Using an Andrews cam, probably Andrews springs. It is a mild setup.
Mike, off topic on the Evo. I am just finishing on a 83 shovel upper rebuild. Cylinders bored .020. New pistons and rings. Valve job on the heads. Everything else spec out. Now the question. On a start-up, is there anything you do to check before firing it up. I know what my compression was before the tear down both warm & cold. Would that be a good idea to check compression before firing it. Would that let me know things like valve timing, odd noises while cranking. etc. Would a leak down check also check things. Probably overthinking things. LOL thanks
You're definitely overthinking. But, better safe than sorry. If you've adjusted your valves (and I can only assume you have hydraulic lifters), spin your engine over by its starter (with the sparkplugs out) to make sure the lifters are pumped up. Make sure oil is returning to your oil tank. If anything does not go well, you can trouble shoot at that point. I always turn the engine over by hand with everything adjusted and with the spark plugs out. Then, I give the float bowl time to fill. Then I start it. It's always exciting. I never get over it. Take your time. Enjoy it. Run the engine for a few heat cycles. Retorque the heads when the engine returns to cold. Again, Have Fun
Hi Mike I don’t see you using lock tight on the cam cover bolts do they not need it ?
I don't put loctite on precious case threads.
Did you check the end play of the Breather gear?
Did you like the OEM plastic breather or did you upgrade to the S&S Metal breather?
I don't remember what I put in there several years ago. It's probably an S&S due to the stroker kit.
@@pacificmike9501 It was indeed a metal S&S stroker breather
Also I bought new ss heads and cylinders for my 89 fxstc evo should I run it with break in oil first?
Whatever S&S recommends. (sscycle.com)
Hi Mike,just brought a 1975 flh from florida too scotland.Probobly been 4months to arrive.It sumpded out a nasty brown oily goo.i have now got it nice clean oil after using n flushing with 6 ltrs of 20w50. No straight 60 here.i took it for a little spin and its hicuping no control over throttle to carb.i never drained the tank of old fuel just added 5 litres of new.have i gummed the carb up? Many thanks Mike love the channel.
Without seeing it, I have no idea. How clean are the tanks? You might want to drain and clean them. You ought to add a nice washable fuel filter. Or, if it doesn't seem bad, just keep adding fresh fuel 'til it straightens out. I also don't know what your fuel is like in Scotland. You may need to do some tuning. I don't know what you're using for a carburetor. Sounds like fun. You will sort it out. And, it will be great.
@@pacificmike9501 Thanks its an s+s super B.I may have topped up with a bit too much oil hence the big spot out?hope i havnt damaged the old girl.Unleaded petrol over here not sure of octane.Why do i have to always learn from mistakes😂
Because you're human. We all suffer from the same condition. It's just "time in." Super B's just require proper jetting. "SSCycle" is the web site. They give very complete instructions. Too much oil? Drain some out. It may continue to push more out through the breather hose until the system balances itself out. Start it with a pan underneath. If it's in good shape, it won't go on for very long and it will get happy and stop doing that.
Hey Mike I have really enjoyed the training video's you post for me to wrench on my 97 Titan Evo motor. I truly appreciate you and your time putting these video's together for us to enjoy. I had a mishap after finishing up my cam replacement. All new pushrods (quickie) and lifters to complete the job and future replacements (if I need too). My mishap was forgetting the darn breather bushing. It was a week or so before I noticed as the bushing is the metal version that I mistook for an extra washer from the intake cover. I took so long to figure it out based on discovering a faulty coil I had to replace. Anyway, I am just curious if I have caused any damage that will not be resolved by simply re-installing, with the bushing this time? I have put about 60 miles on the bike since the replacement of the cam.
If it looked okay, if the breather gear wasn't damaged, if the cam cover wasn't damaged... If you looked it all over and question it, have a pro look at it. There's no shame in not being sure, anyone can make a mistake.
@@pacificmike9501 One last thing about this mishap. Will that cause a lot of oil to leak out? It appears to have come from the overflow line, maybe?
I believe you left the breather shim out. That will cause a real confusion in your oil system. With the breather corrected, it should function fine.
great video mike.im putting a woods w6 in my 92 evo.whats if any clearance should I hv when installing it.installing new tappets also an bearing.ty again Mike great information
I would go by the service manual unless introducing other than stock parts. I'm sure Mr. Woods makes his recommendations. I would certainly go by that.
Mike, are those tappet block alignment tools good for shovel lifter blocks also? As always, thanks for your knowledge.
Yes they are if you have a newer Shovelhead. Shovelhead tappet block screws were 1/4 X 24 originally. After 1973, they changed to 1/4 X 20. The tools are 1/4 X 20. Be sure you know that before you screw a tool into the wrong thread pitch and...
@@pacificmike9501 Great point! Thanks very much. Charles
Mike, why is the alignment screw better than just putting the actual bolt in to allign it?
Hey mike . Enjoy your videos. Very informative. I replaced the rocker box gaskets on my 117 S&S mtr. . It’s in my 2004 Bigdog. Before I replace the rocker arm assy’s, is there a front and rear. I may have mixed them up when I put them on my bench.
The rear exhaust is the same as the front intake. The rear intake is the same as the front exhaust. Now put them on their shafts and see how they feel. You'll probably feel any slight differences.
@@pacificmike9501 great. Thanks Mike for your help
What cam did you put into Jims bike the number Mike, please...Learned a lot thanks Mike...
Dave Mackie 580
Why do some folks soak the lifters in oil before assembly? Did Mike do this before putting them in the lifter boxes? It looks like not. So is it an unnecessary step?
Either way. These were already full of clean oil, so I didn't drain them.
👍🖖
Thank You
My buddy had a servicar in his kitchen !!!-
You gotta have a place to sit. A servicar for dinner? Why not? I lived in a warehouse. My buddy Stevie, built me a beautiful 360 degree rotating stand that we bolted to the kitchen floor. You apparently understand.
@@pacificmike9501 yup !!!- ✊🏻👍👌
Do you know why a evo engine lost is oil pressur and gaz smelling smoke come out the crankcase breather and when cool down the pressur is back to normal and no more smoke out the breather ?
Does not sound good.
Hi mike, I’ve been watching your videos, just gaining knowledge. I’m about to replace the cam bearing in my 98 evo, don’t plan on upgrading cam or anything. I was just curious if measuring end play needs to be measured, or any of the additional steps when re installing the original cam? It will be my first time opening the cam chest on any of my bikes.
Go with your service manual. Since you're keeping the original cam, I assume you're keeping the original lifters and pushrods. In this case, follow the procedures in the book and be sure you inspect your lifters carefully.
@@pacificmike9501 thank yo Lu for the reply. I recently bought the bike, and of course there was no manual. I did plan to replace the lifters along with the cam bearing. but was hoping to keep original cam as well as pushrods.
Be sure and buy a serrvice manual. Any time I've taken a cam out of a late Evo like yours, I threw it away. Consider a nice mild replacement. You'll be glad you did.
What were you doing with your fingers as you put the lifter blocks with lifters in their bores to assemble?I saw a video by late nite v twin, and he set the lifters in n then the lifter blocks. Of course it was a M8 motor and they had holders by s&s to keep the lifters parallel to the cam.
I didn't know the M8 had lifter blocks. The Twin Cam does not. Let's not mix up motors.
Tappet blocks.
I was probably holding the lifters into the tappet blocks.
The stock stroke is 4.250" . . . Whats the new Stroker flywheels you installed . . . Thanks . . . BRIAN
Look at the previous videos. You might like them. I built this engine several years back and installed 4 5/8 Truett and Osborn flywheels.
@@pacificmike9501
Right on, I watch a lot of your vids and I went looking for the video that had all the specs of the evo build but I couldn't seem to find it. I live just down the street from Truitt & Osborn here in Wichita. I'm going to have to call the lease on my knucklehead I've leased to you lol, it's time that baby came home lol lol I'd almost give up a testicle for that scooter . . . Thanks . . . BRIAN
I understand. We're in love and she's been a family pet for over 30 years.
Have fun at T&O. I've been fortunate to do business with them for about 35-40 years.
"Tappet block alignment screws"? Wouldn't the intended screws do the same thing?
The alignment "tools" are ground with a perfect taper to align the tappet blocks perfectly. The holes in the tappet blocks are straight.
Good afternoon Mike. The question I have is where do I find one of those double headed magnets that you used to keep the lifters from falling into the camchest ? Thank you.
Try Jim"s Machine Tools. Or, try Drag Specialties tool section of the Fatbook.
I apologize. I called around and can't find those magnets. I don't know if anyone is still producing them. Most people use paper clips. I've forgotten how long ago I got those tools. It was probably right after Evos came out.
@pacificmike9501 Thanks for the reply Mike...
I think 40 years just slipped right by.
Are you putting new lifters or reusing the old ones? At least you can replace the lifter blocks unlike the Twinkie
This one has a nice set of Jim's lifters in it that have low mileage on them.
@@pacificmike9501 I understand, I have just heard lifters are a big issue on evolutions because of the pushrod angle. Have you found that to be true?
Do you need to use tappit alignment tool?
The tappet alignment tool was designed to hold the tappet bocks in their perfect position on Evo motors. It's a good idea. It is a tapered tool so it really does locate that tappet block correctly. Necessary? Not really sure, but a good idea.
I've been complaining about the power of my 97 FXD after riding my pops 04 1700 roadstar midnight Silverado. I know there is a bit of size difference but just wondering what do I need to do to get up closer to 100hp.
100 HP out of an 80 inch Evo is a big bunch of power.
@@pacificmike9501 oh I know it. Not saying I would stick with 80in though. I'm fine with boring out to a larger size. Just curious what all would need to happen to get me up closer to 100hp. 90s would be ok too.lol
Hey Mike what’s the wrench called you use for the cam cover bolts the bent one
I believe you are speaking of a "speed handle." That's what my dad always called it and it was his.
@@pacificmike9501 speed wrench thank you I bought a couple snap on ones at a flea market in ca. years ago I moved back to ct and left them in ca.
Okay. You asked what it's called. In honor of my dear departed dad, I think I'll continue to call it a "speed handle."
How does Jim feel when you have your hands all over his baby, and say.....that feels good.....;)
I built that bike for Jim, after he crashed years ago. Jim is one of my best friends. That's why I work on it. That's why we hand picked every piece of it together.
@@pacificmike9501 did you not see the wink? I can tell ya'll are close. I had a friend like you, but he is deceased now. I learned a lot from him. Great friend. Still miss him.
I understand. The friendships that develop when we build things together is something truly special. That's one of the reasons I invite you to come along. It's not the same as hanging out together, but it's the closest to it I can get.
@@pacificmike9501 hope I can get out your way one day and do some riding with you and your friends. Would be nice. Also enjoy the videos!
Thank You. I'm hoping things will loosen up some more. So many events got cancelled. Finally, the "Born Free" show is scheduled for August. I think things are looking up. I miss the interaction with all the vendors and just plain old bikers, like myself.
When you insert the cam does the crankshaft have to be at TDC?
Line up the marks on the gears. The pinion gear timing mark should be streaight up. Then install the cam gear, then the breather gear with its timing mark. You should definitely review all of this in your year and model specific HD Service manual. This is not the place to mess up. You are into a very expensive motor.
@pacificmike9501 Thanks for the fast response..Mike. And thanks for all the great Evo videos. I wish I had all the knowledge (and tools) that you have. I have a 1998 Harley-Davidson Road King Classic with a 121,000 miles on it. It has the Magnetti Marrelli fuel injection which has always gotten a bad rap..I was going to change over to a carburetor and went to Ed's Harley-Davidson in Decatur, Indiana and when Ed saw the mileage...he said he thought I should not put a carburetor on since it's gone this far with the fuel injection. It still runs beautifully but I have been thinking about the cam upgrade. Thanks again, I appreciate you.
I agree. A Magnetti Marrelli that runs well and is totally dependable should not be messed with. Very few people are proficient at trouble shooting them. Changing to a carburetor is a pretty long-winded project. The last one of those I did, although quite successful, was quite costly. I changed the entire wiring harness and installed a complete modern electronic ignition, a carburetor and manifold, and modified the gas tank. Doesn't sound like a lot, but it is.
@pacificmike9501 It does sound like a lot of work to me to change over to a carburetor. I found an independent dealer who like you knows how to work on nearly every Harley-Davidson ever produced. Most of the dealerships that I went to before I found Ed's Harley-Davidson said they prefer not to work on bikes that are over 10 years old. I'm thinking it's probably because technicians these days don't learn how to work on the older bikes. I've had my bike for 10 years now and have learned to take care of most issues I've had on my own. Most of those issues have been sensors...cam position sensor, crank position sensor and throttle position sensor. I'm a little hesitant when it comes to installing a new cam,but I would like to upgrade the cam. Thanks for your knowledge and willingness to share with everyone online.
I understand the desire for a cam. I hope your system is set up with some sort of a tuneable module. Otherwise, you may not be able to adjust your tuning to your satisfaction with the cam change.
best cam with out getting into the heads or carb. little bigger then stock, no one can give me an answer, 1998 flsts, thanks
Everyone has their own preferences. You're looking for a "drop in" cam. In other words, a cam that won't require any modifications. There are a whole lot of brands out there. Andrews makes some and so does Competition Cam, S&S, lots of people. I don't know what you would like. Read what they all advertise to do.
The cam I put into that bike had way more lift than you could install without modifying the heads. These heads were very heavily modified. However a much milder version would be a Dave Mackie 500, available from Dave Mackie Engineering in Ventura Ca. They have a website.
One newton meter equals 0.73756215 foot pounds
Interesting. Thank You
This guy can do this in his sleep
Nah, just a lot of stuff done a lot of times. We all start out the same.
Thank you
You're welcome