really like your laid back west coast delivery mike- in today's age of everything needing to be 160mph you relax method is relief to us all. keep up the great work
It's funny when you mentioned your pipes are on the living room floor. It reminded me of one day when I went over to my uncle's house and he had a transmission on the kitchen table taken apart and I wondered why would he be doing that here and I guess it's more comfortable and now I start to do the same thing sometimes taking a carburetor apart or something on the kitchen table and fixing it. Thanks for sharing all your knowledge it's really enjoyable to watch your videos
Just tried your trick for installing Rocker Box oil lines on a Shovel. You just taught this old dog a new trick. Wish I knew this "back in the day"!!!!! Thanks!!!!
I don't own a Harley, probably never will. I don't need to know anything about these bikes. But just watching you handle tools, clean the parts, use the right lube or sealant, all the little things. I learn so much just by watching you work. You're a great mechanic and thank you for your videos.
Thanks for doing such a beautiful rebuild on this awesome bike. You do make the best rebuild videos of all. Slow & precise along with the tips & tricks. Don't stop doing the best video ever.
Mike, @7:21 "the pipes are on the living room floor" made me chuckle because when I was young living in and sharing a house with friends it was not unusual to see a bike in the living room being wrenched on with parts scattered around the house. Always enjoy your videos thanks for posting them.
Gee, I thought that was pretty normal. When I was 19, I lived in a one bedroom house. That was me, my dog, my motorcyle (and usually one being built), and seven puppies. Now I'm an adult. Only one dog.
Great video Mike. I just did this a week ago. Your videos are always well presented. One note worthy tip to viewers is to make sure your lifter blocks don't have set screws in them to block the oil journals for solid lifters.
Howdy Mike, Here in INDIANA it seems to oscillate from too COLD & Snow - to - too HOT & Rain consequently I get to watch You-Tube VIDEOS Thanks for the instructional video on the LIFTERS / LIFTER BLOCKS which seem like it will cross-over to my EVO builds - thanks for showing the JIM's Alignment Tool SCREWS & the TIP on the Thread PITCH Differences & the MAGNETIC Holder - Lifter ASSEMBLY Tool I like using CopperCoat on my Paper Gaskets also COOP ...................................................
I use 2 of those foldable paper clasps. You know those huge black ones you bundle your divorce papers in? The smaller ones work great if you take the little handles out of the clasp those can be pinched to clear the retainers to grab the retainer pin in your hydraulic lifter, next release the tension on your clasp to grasp the retainers and lift away!
Just rebuilt my rear master on my sportster, the front seal was pushed back about a half inch on the spring. Never saw this before. Blew out my main line and will be completely done today. I had to do it myself cus my mechanic couldn't do it for warranty reasons. A new master is impossible to get. Dennis Kirk was the only place I could get a kit. And glad I find one. Do hang on to your parts I'm sure you know.
I had it painted to match a car I had in 1991. Too many guys had bikes that started looking like mine. They got blemed for all kinds of stuff. Dunno why. So, she got a color change.
Plugging the holes with spark plugs, OK! Good point about turning the engine over to watch lifters go up and down themselves. AMF probably made the decision to stop using Chandler Product 1038 bolts and to go to standard SAE thread sizes after they bought Harley in January 1969. Harley probably had contracts with certain companies that had to be fulfilled. My 1972 Sportster came with some CP 1038 bolts. Probably by 1973, no more specialized bolts or thread sizes. AMF wanted to streamline production and cut cost wherever they could. You make good videos. Mike, never mind seeing you out on the road, we want to see you in the garage wrenching on Harleys.
@@pacificmike9501 I'm not really bad mouthing AMF. A lot of people believe AMF saved Harley. I'm just stating the decisions I think they made. Quite a few people don't like some of their decisions, especially styling. I believe pre AMF Harley made some changes some people didn't like either. Harley made decisions so you had to go to the Harley dealer for simple items years ago, such as a 5/16-18 bolt 2-11/32 long. It's a game to get your money, while you want to hold onto it.
Thanks for all the Shovelhead How-to's, you'd think there's a lot of stuff online, but there's not. Anyway, your tappets don't look stock, if that's a better set-up than the hydraulic units HD had, would love to get a closer look at them
Are the gaskets for the lifter blocks specific to each cylinder for Shovelheads and Evo's . If so how can you tell ? Your explanations are always easy to follow. Thanks 🇺🇸
They are different shape for front and rear. Pans, Shovels and Evos use the same pattern gaskets for their lifter blocks. Always be sure you have the oil hole lined up when installing lifter block gaskets.
Great video as always. Just can,t beat snap on sockets; they can get into places where other brands cannot. Thanks Mike. Happy Easter. It,s snowing here!!!
Like the clear explanation on your projects and question and answers , I ride a 94 ultra elec glide Love it , been entertaining the thought of a complete dissemble but the electrical has me scared to dive in and get it started do you have any pointers or suggestions how to record or map such a project . Thanks for your time and videos keep the knowledge coming Again Thanks
So relaxing watching u work. 'First couple dozen times' lol it shows in ur calm demeanor. Do u go back torque the lifter blocks, just wondered. Thanks for sharing. Im learning so much and enjoy ur vids. Thanks.
Another excellent presentation, Mike. Say, with panhead hydraulic lifters, the lifters themselves need to be placed into the block channels in a pa rticular direction with oil lube gallies facing each other in the block. You didn't mention that in this video. Are shovelhead lifters different than the panhead ones in this regard? As always, thank you!
Yes, they are. These are not stock lifters, so, since it's not an issue for me, I forgot to mention it to people using stock hydraulic lifters in their Pan (53-65) or their Shovel. Thank you for mentioning it.
I swear i keep waiting for you to say, "and just over here we are gonna put a happy little tree ,so that shrub isn't alone" You are definitely the bob ross of harleys
I really do like the black paint on the lifter blocks gives it a really nice look! I think I’m gonna paint mine the same way any tips on that? See you out on the road Mike!
I understand you to say that the tappet flat surfaces with the oil holes should be facing each other. Is that right or should the cam followers both be turning in with the hole toward the cylinders
Hey Mike. I just finished my top end rebuild. 1991 heritage. Did exactly what you had recommended and ran it today around the block. Got alittle oil leak on the bottom of the front tappit block. My question is. Should i run it up to temp and try and give it a retourque or tear it apart and see whats going on with that gasket ? Thanks for any input. Love these videos
Your guess is as good as mine. Tappet blocks come in a couple different thicknesses. Try a thicker one if you're changing it. I'd tighten it first. But, you'll probably end up changing it.
Thank for making these videos !! I will install velvet though lifters on my Panhead. I will use a cam with slitghly higher lift than standard. Could you please make a video where you explain how to calcutate and install valve springs. Minimum and actual install height. Coil bind height. Collar to seal contact height. Duration vs valve conflict. Valve lift and safety margine, etc ? That would be great.
@@pacificmike9501 thats too bad. You are the best teacher of mechanics on TH-cam. If you explained how you did the set up on your shovel with velva touch lifters it would be great. Maybe it could be 2 or 3 videoes ? Thank you anyway. You have been a great help to me. All the best from Norway Kjetil
Everything is so nice and clean. The assembly lube reminds me Winter chainsaw bar and chain lube. Looks to be the same color and viscosity..Probably the same price for a 4 quart (liter) jug as a 6 or 8 ounce bottle..haha
You are the Bob Ross of Harley. Could you please tell us how often or how to tell when the tappet roller bearings need to be replaced without taking them out? Still waiting for you to put out some T shirts.. I'll buy some.
Mike, have you considered starting a Patreon account? I learn SO much from you videos, and would gladly contribute to the operating costs of your channel to ensure more content.
@@pacificmike9501 Please do so. I think you underestimate how much the knowledge that you transfer means to people trying to learn about their old bikes.
Mike - I am building a 3.5” bore 4.25” stroke Shovelhead using mainly S&s parts - but it is not clear to me what heads I should pick so I am sure to get the dual stud exhaust ports - I do not want to make a mistake and get the single stud exhaust port heads,,,,?
I don't know of any dual stud exhaust port Shovelhead cylinder heads. STD made them with 3 studs on each exhaust port. Those are the heads that I have. I don't know if they're available at this time or if there are others being made similar.
@@pacificmike9501 I appreciate your reply, Sir. Your videos are very helpful and I have watched pretty much every shovel video you’ve made. I am working on the cases and cam chest this weekend and have not bought heads yet. I will continue poking around for multi-stud versions. Thank you!
Anything in a spray can. It's the baking that makes it great. Go buy a spray can of gloss black and paint it on anything cast iron and bake it. Heat it up, shoot the color on heavily, then bake it. This will show you what you got. I cover this in sedveral old videos. I bought an old used electric, built in oven. It cost me thirty dollars. That's my parts baking oven. I don't cook food in it.
Thanks for the great tutorial mike! I can't seem to find the magnets specifically for a shovelhead. Would the ones that are commonly listed for an evo work?
That's what these are. Sorry if I didn't mention it. They're just something stuck to the side of my toolbox. They came out shortly after Evos did. That's when everyone wanted a cam change on their new bike. A lot of tools happened then.
Hi. Mike. I have a question about the upper and lower push tube seals on my 117 S&S mtr. I got a seal kit from J&P and it came with 8 identical round seals which are the ones that came out of the motor originally. But the kit also came with 4 quad seals , should I have used the quad seals in the lifter boxes instead of the round o rings . What application is used for the quad seal. It was really hard to get the retainers back on the upper push tubes
Hi Mike, could you give some advice or tricks by replacing those rollers of the 4 tappets? I have a Andrews AB camshaft for my late Shovel. 1980 fxwg. Thank you! ✌️
I believe there is a fixture available from Jim's Machine that holds he lifter while you drill out the old pin and then holds it while you install the new one. Be sure you follow instructions from Andrews on that cam. Clearances are critical.
Hi Mike ty for the video really enjoy it. Am looking for a shovelhead any advice on what year you prefer as far as mechanical? I am leaning towards a dresser. I have an Ironhead now 1980 any input would be appreciated. All the best to you Kenny
That's all on you. What do you want? What's the purpose. Long rides? Drag racing? Sunday cruising through town? Wanna wow the crowds? Or, just yourself?
@@pacificmike9501 thank you Mike I'm going to give it some thought I have a newer bike for long trips Plus I have my Ironhead I think I would be happy with a seventies dresser to putt around town and Tinker with. They are just hard to find. Thanks again for getting back to me look forward to more videos cheers Kenny
The seventies were a "free for all." It seems anything went. Most common was black. My 65 Pan I road in the seventies was black and white. The black had flakes of many colors lightly sprinkled in it and the tanks had white panels. Then I smashed them and found a black pair with purple scallops. Then I bought a brand new Shovelhead FLH full dresser. It was bright red. I road it home, tore is apart, basically stripped it down to a full fendered with nothing else bike. It stayed red until 1991, when I had her painted a light creamy yellow, which she still is.
@pacificmike9501 IF, it ever comes to fruition, I worked with a guy who wants to sell me his 93 Fat Boy. He didn't ride it much tho, never got it titled, cause he said he lost the bill of sale and title on his ride home from buying it... blew out of his pocket... and, he's in pretty poor health. He won't make ME pay for it until I get it titled and registered and I live in another state. Well, I gave him a little to help him ship down to me, and we'll see when we see. It'll be my first HD. I'm a trucker and get to ride my V650 classic a few times a year. I've only had it a couple years and is my first bike. I just turned 68. Looking forward to it. Really, !REALLY!, enjoy your work. Any pearls of wisdom concerning this particular ride can I gather from you?
That's because I'm not using Harley lifters. When using Harley lifters, face the oil holes in the lifters toward themselves, or "inward." When in doubt, look in the service manual.
Heard you say your gonna clean your pipes, what products do you like? Got a set of upswept pipes on my shovel that are pretty nasty and cant seem to find anything that works that well
Hard work. Stuff is always burned on. I use any of the polishing pastes, some more aggressive than others. It's just hard work and you know you're gradually destroying the chrome.
Yes. Be careful and take it slow. Some aftermarket suppliers carry a fixture, but I've never had much luck with them. I do them on my drill press and use a small machinist's vise. Again, slow and easy. Not really difficult.
I built a shovel a few years ago using a kit from Jim's to convert to Evo top end oiling. Ran good.(expensive). Do you have any opinions to those convertion kits?
1/4-24 was a common size years ago. Cast metals don't lend themselves very well to fine threads. In about 1974, Harley quit using 1/4-24 on tappet blocks and cam covers and transmission lids and went to 1/4-20. 1/4-20 is a USS size and 1/4-28 is an SAE thread.
Nicely done Mike can't wait to hear that shovelhead run, A++ my friend. Mike I have a question my 77 fxe Shovelhead has new front an drear brakes. but the Front brake lever, hard to squeeze and the rear brake goes to the floor, if I pump it it stops my friend said he bled the rear brakes so I don't know what might be wrong
It probably still has air in it. There are pumps for this that suck the air out. Or, you do it the old way and just keep bleeding it. Some times, tapping on the line with a wrench (especially where the bends occur) will break bubbles loose. It can be maddening. Keep at it. Did you use the right fluid for your system? Harley started using Dot 5 fluid in September of 77. I don't know what year bike you have or what components you're using.
@@pacificmike9501 I have a 1977 fxe I don't know what fluid he used I dropped the bike off to get a clutch put on, Mike here is a link you can see my bike you can see what I have th-cam.com/video/qqpHEAZR9Sk/w-d-xo.html
I prefer hydraulics in a Shovelhead. As it warms up, the topend grows, causing the clearanced to grow, then the lifters get real noisey. Well worth the money to buy quality hydraulic lifters for a Shovelhead.
The one on my Shovelhead is a Dynatek 2000I. I also use with it, Dynatek coils. I run it single fire with dual plugs and dual coils. Although I'm not doing it at the moment, I set it up to program on my personal computer.
Hey Mike, do you know of any who sells refurbished keihin no cv carbs i have torn apart my 79 carb far to many times. I know a lot of people switch to s&s but I'm trying to keep my 79 fxef as close to factory as possible.
I don't know of anyone. They aren't much of a carburetor. If they have sat around very much. The passages get clogged. You have to route them out with tiny wire. Most of the circuitry is through the bowl.
It's a matter of personal preference. The later Keihins have an accelerator pump. A lot of people like S&S carburetors. Some of us old timers run SU's. Then there is the Flatslide Mikuni. Again, just a matter of personal preference.
What is it with all this loctite? Use good bolts. Clean threads. Do you need glue everywhere? Do you think the bike was built with all that glue? There is a time and place for everything. It's just not everywhere.
Knowing me, I would have had a rag shoved in the front hole when putting in the rear bolts and alignment bolts. Hahaha. No torque wrench on those, Mike?
really like your laid back west coast delivery mike- in today's age of everything needing to be 160mph you relax method is relief to us all. keep up the great work
Thank You. I am retired. If it isn't fun, I'm not interested.
Young guy here. Watching guys with a lot more years and experience is priceless! Thanks for sharing your wisdom, AND patience.
I appreciate that!
Watching you work is soothing
Thank You
It's funny when you mentioned your pipes are on the living room floor. It reminded me of one day when I went over to my uncle's house and he had a transmission on the kitchen table taken apart and I wondered why would he be doing that here and I guess it's more comfortable and now I start to do the same thing sometimes taking a carburetor apart or something on the kitchen table and fixing it. Thanks for sharing all your knowledge it's really enjoyable to watch your videos
Thank You. I find the best place to do things is where I'm going to enjoy it the most.
Hello Mike I. Wish you a happy Easter and Gods blessings for you and all your family
And I wish the same to you and yours.
Mike I got to say- this entire build is like a work of art. 👍
Thank You
Just tried your trick for installing Rocker Box oil lines on a Shovel. You just taught this old dog a new trick. Wish I knew this "back in the day"!!!!! Thanks!!!!
Glad to help
I don't own a Harley, probably never will. I don't need to know anything about these bikes. But just watching you handle tools, clean the parts, use the right lube or sealant, all the little things. I learn so much just by watching you work. You're a great mechanic and thank you for your videos.
Glad you like them! Thank You
Even though you' be shown this before...seeing it again ,I pick up something new to remember and use...thank you
You are so welcome!
It's a pleasure watching you work Mike.
Thank You
Thanks Mr. Mike! Happy Easter to you and your family.
Same to you!
Always love stopping by the garage have a blessed week my friend.
Thanks, you too!
You're right about the black cylinders and black blocks. Shovelheads look the best that way.
Personal preference. Everyone is entitled. But yah, I think so.
You have me not-so-patiently excited and waiting for the finished product. You're good at this.
Thank You. Going to ride her tomorrow.
Awesome video Mike. Good teacher you are.
Glad you think so!
The master at work, once again. Jeez, I love this stuff; thanks Mike.
Glad you enjoy it!
Ya buddy! I can't get enough of the shovel head stuff. Very good instructions .
I love riding my Shovel. Glad you're enjoying this stuff.
The Bob Ross of Harleys! Great video Mike! 👍🏼
Thanks 👍
Dammit i just commented that exact thing and 2 minutes later scrolling the comments i find you said it yesterday, really pisses me off😉
Thanks, Mike, for this informative video. Well-done, good sir!
Glad it was helpful!
Thank you again.
Thank you too!
Very relaxing to just take the backseat on watching you work on the bike my man.
Glad you enjoy it!
Thanks for your time young'un... Your vids are top shelf...bless
Glad you like them! You must be ooold. We ain't never gonna stop.
Thanks for doing such a beautiful rebuild on this awesome bike. You do make the best rebuild videos of all. Slow & precise along with the tips & tricks. Don't stop doing the best video ever.
Thank you very much!
Mike is a living Harley shop manual for most bikes. I appreciate you logging this info for all to learn!
Glad to help. Thank You.
Mike, @7:21 "the pipes are on the living room floor" made me chuckle because when I was young living in and sharing a house with friends it was not unusual to see a bike in the living room being wrenched on with parts scattered around the house. Always enjoy your videos thanks for posting them.
Gee, I thought that was pretty normal. When I was 19, I lived in a one bedroom house. That was me, my dog, my motorcyle (and usually one being built), and seven puppies. Now I'm an adult. Only one dog.
Mike you make it look easy. Be Safe.
It's pleasurable. Take care.
Thank you, Mike, for sharing your experience.With the right tool, nothing is impossible.
You got it. Thank You.
Great video Mike. I just did this a week ago. Your videos are always well presented. One note worthy tip to viewers is to make sure your lifter blocks don't have set screws in them to block the oil journals for solid lifters.
I never blocked them, even when I ran solids. Interesting.
The magnetic block is genius and simple tool. Thanks for another great video Mike!
Yes. It really works well. Thank You.
Great job of installing those lifters, another job well done. Thanks Mike
Glad you like them!
As always, another fun video. Thanks Mike...... Have a great Easter.....
Thanks, you too!
Love the videos...I learn a lot from these videos....thanks Mike!
Glad you like them!
Howdy Mike,
Here in INDIANA it seems to oscillate from too COLD & Snow - to - too HOT & Rain
consequently I get to watch You-Tube VIDEOS
Thanks for the instructional video on the LIFTERS / LIFTER BLOCKS
which seem like it will cross-over to my EVO builds -
thanks for showing the JIM's Alignment Tool SCREWS & the TIP on the Thread PITCH Differences
& the MAGNETIC Holder - Lifter ASSEMBLY Tool
I like using CopperCoat on my Paper Gaskets also
COOP
...................................................
Thank You. The weather will get better. It always does.
Very nice job. I have discover two new tools.
Great to hear!
Thank you Mr Mike
Thank You
I use 2 of those foldable paper clasps. You know those huge black ones you bundle your divorce papers in? The smaller ones work great if you take the little handles out of the clasp those can be pinched to clear the retainers to grab the retainer pin in your hydraulic lifter, next release the tension on your clasp to grasp the retainers and lift away!
Yes. It works well.
You’re good Mike and that’s why I follow.
Thank You
Just rebuilt my rear master on my sportster, the front seal was pushed back about a half inch on the spring. Never saw this before. Blew out my main line and will be completely done today. I had to do it myself cus my mechanic couldn't do it for warranty reasons. A new master is impossible to get. Dennis Kirk was the only place I could get a kit. And glad I find one. Do hang on to your parts I'm sure you know.
Thank You
@@pacificmike9501 thanks you, your an inspiration to us all.
Yes, this is one of those odd times in history. Best to go for a ride now.
@@pacificmike9501 yes i go on Sunday morning when it's cool and less traffic. And I can be alone with my thoughts. I go to Ft. Meyers beach.
Are those vintage Harley front turn signal bullet lights? They look great! Thanks for the vid...!
Thank You. I saved those lights for this project. I love 'em. I'm going to add a sidecar, so, to keep my puppydog safe, I added the turnsignals.
Gotta love the magnet tool!
Yes. It does make it a lot easier.
Great job Mike it's coming along nicely 👍
Thanks 👍
The more i look the more i like the color of this bike !
I had it painted to match a car I had in 1991. Too many guys had bikes that started looking like mine. They got blemed for all kinds of stuff. Dunno why. So, she got a color change.
I'm excited for you, love these videos. Thanks for sharing all your knowledge with us.
Glad you like them!
THANK YOU...for sharing. Very professionally done, enjoyed.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Plugging the holes with spark plugs, OK! Good point about turning the engine over to watch lifters go up and down themselves. AMF probably made the decision to stop using Chandler Product 1038 bolts and to go to standard SAE thread sizes after they bought Harley in January 1969. Harley probably had contracts with certain companies that had to be fulfilled. My 1972 Sportster came with some CP 1038 bolts. Probably by 1973, no more specialized bolts or thread sizes. AMF wanted to streamline production and cut cost wherever they could. You make good videos. Mike, never mind seeing you out on the road, we want to see you in the garage wrenching on Harleys.
Thanx. 1/4 24 is a very old size. I think they just decided to become a little more modern. Don't bad mouth AMF. They kept a failing company alive.
@@pacificmike9501 I'm not really bad mouthing AMF. A lot of people believe AMF saved Harley. I'm just stating the decisions I think they made. Quite a few people don't like some of their decisions, especially styling. I believe pre AMF Harley made some changes some people didn't like either. Harley made decisions so you had to go to the Harley dealer for simple items years ago, such as a 5/16-18 bolt 2-11/32 long. It's a game to get your money, while you want to hold onto it.
Okay.
thanks for being clear on what your doing, i think i'll look for a shovelhead engine to work on.
Thank You. Sounds like fun to me.
Love your videos clean work.
Awesome! Thank you!
Great work bro 👍
Thanks ✌️
He Mike could you do a video about helicoils, ruined threads and stuck or broken bolts?
When I have one. We'll see what comes up.
Great job as usual, Happy Easter!
Thanks! You too!
Always enjoy your videos. Happy Easter Mike.
Thanks, you too!
Thanks for all the Shovelhead How-to's, you'd think there's a lot of stuff online, but there's not. Anyway, your tappets don't look stock, if that's a better set-up than the hydraulic units HD had, would love to get a closer look at them
They are Velva Touch. They come as a set, lifter blocks, lifters, and pushrods. They're installed now. I'm sure you could find them on line.
Thank you
Thank You.
Are the gaskets for the lifter blocks specific to each cylinder for Shovelheads and Evo's . If so how can you tell ? Your explanations are always easy to follow. Thanks 🇺🇸
They are different shape for front and rear. Pans, Shovels and Evos use the same pattern gaskets for their lifter blocks. Always be sure you have the oil hole lined up when installing lifter block gaskets.
@@pacificmike9501 Thank you 👍
Great video as always. Just can,t beat snap on sockets; they can get into places where other brands cannot. Thanks Mike. Happy Easter. It,s snowing here!!!
Thanks, you too!
Like the clear explanation on your projects and question and answers , I ride a 94 ultra elec glide
Love it , been entertaining the thought of a complete dissemble but the electrical has me scared to dive in and get it started do you have any pointers or suggestions how to record or map such a project . Thanks for your time and videos keep the knowledge coming Again Thanks
It's all in what you want. Stock replacement harness may still be available. Try HD or V-Twin (Tedd Cycle). Or, you can design your own.
I believe when Harley changed thread pitch, they removed the countersunk holes on the block.
Not on the last ones. Be watchful for 12 point 1/4-24's.
So relaxing watching u work. 'First couple dozen times' lol it shows in ur calm demeanor. Do u go back torque the lifter blocks, just wondered. Thanks for sharing. Im learning so much and enjoy ur vids. Thanks.
I have a tendency to "recheck" everything. Lifter blocks should be checked. They will "take a set."
Another excellent presentation, Mike. Say, with panhead hydraulic lifters, the lifters themselves need to be placed into the block channels in a pa rticular direction with oil lube gallies facing each other in the block. You didn't mention that in this video. Are shovelhead lifters different than the panhead ones in this regard? As always, thank you!
Yes, they are. These are not stock lifters, so, since it's not an issue for me, I forgot to mention it to people using stock hydraulic lifters in their Pan (53-65) or their Shovel. Thank you for mentioning it.
I swear i keep waiting for you to say, "and just over here we are gonna put a happy little tree ,so that shrub isn't alone"
You are definitely the bob ross of harleys
Thank You
I really do like the black paint on the lifter blocks gives it a really nice look! I think I’m gonna paint mine the same way any tips on that? See you out on the road Mike!
Yes. We show painting of parts on the channel. Mask carefully!
Thanks for a great video! I'll be doing the same thing very soon.
Cool. I hope this helps you.
I bought the tool to hold the lifters in place. That was so easy. Thanks!!!@@pacificmike9501
I understand you to say that the tappet flat surfaces with the oil holes should be facing each other. Is that right or should the cam followers both be turning in with the hole toward the cylinders
Lifters fore and aft, facing each other. The holes in the mating surface of the lifter blocks faces the cylinders.
Hey Mike. I just finished my top end rebuild. 1991 heritage. Did exactly what you had recommended and ran it today around the block. Got alittle oil leak on the bottom of the front tappit block. My question is. Should i run it up to temp and try and give it a retourque or tear it apart and see whats going on with that gasket ? Thanks for any input. Love these videos
Your guess is as good as mine. Tappet blocks come in a couple different thicknesses. Try a thicker one if you're changing it. I'd tighten it first. But, you'll probably end up changing it.
Thank for making these videos !!
I will install velvet though lifters on my Panhead. I will use a cam with slitghly higher lift than standard. Could you please make a video where you explain how to calcutate and install valve springs. Minimum and actual install height. Coil bind height. Collar to seal contact height. Duration vs valve conflict. Valve lift and safety margine, etc ? That would be great.
That's getting into a little more technical than we can do in a short, TH-cam video.
@@pacificmike9501 thats too bad. You are the best teacher of mechanics on TH-cam. If you explained how you did the set up on your shovel with velva touch lifters it would be great. Maybe it could be 2 or 3 videoes ?
Thank you anyway. You have been a great help to me.
All the best from Norway
Kjetil
Thank You. Sometimes, I just "need" to quietly put my motorcycle together. We'll do it sooner or later.
Everything is so nice and clean. The assembly lube reminds me Winter chainsaw bar and chain lube. Looks to be the same color and viscosity..Probably the same price for a 4 quart (liter) jug as a 6 or 8 ounce bottle..haha
I'm not a chemist. I'm not sure.
Pretty engine, are they cylinder heads and the cylinder blocks and case powder coated or polished? Thanks Mike !
The heads are raw. The cylinders are black. The lifter blocks are black. The paint is sprayed and baked as we have shown in previous videos.
Mike keep up the great work
Thank You
You are the Bob Ross of Harley.
Could you please tell us how often or how to tell when the tappet roller bearings need to be replaced without taking them out?
Still waiting for you to put out some T shirts.. I'll buy some.
Thank You. the only way I know is to remove and inspect them. This is a very worthwhile operation.
I inspect them about every 30-40 thousand miles. That's pretty often. Again, a wothwhile operation.
Can hardly wait to hear that shovel come to life. What ignition are you using Mike? Thanks and great video as always. 🇨🇦
I just fired it up. We'll show it. It's a little nastier this time. Thank You
Mike, have you considered starting a Patreon account? I learn SO much from you videos, and would gladly contribute to the operating costs of your channel to ensure more content.
We've been thinking about it. Thank You.
@@pacificmike9501 Please do so. I think you underestimate how much the knowledge that you transfer means to people trying to learn about their old bikes.
Thank You.
Mike - I am building a 3.5” bore 4.25” stroke Shovelhead using mainly S&s parts - but it is not clear to me what heads I should pick so I am sure to get the dual stud exhaust ports - I do not want to make a mistake and get the single stud exhaust port heads,,,,?
I don't know of any dual stud exhaust port Shovelhead cylinder heads. STD made them with 3 studs on each exhaust port. Those are the heads that I have. I don't know if they're available at this time or if there are others being made similar.
@@pacificmike9501 I appreciate your reply, Sir. Your videos are very helpful and I have watched pretty much every shovel video you’ve made. I am working on the cases and cam chest this weekend and have not bought heads yet. I will continue poking around for multi-stud versions. Thank you!
Mike what gloss black paint would you use on lifter block an heads on o 1975 FX 1200
Anything in a spray can. It's the baking that makes it great. Go buy a spray can of gloss black and paint it on anything cast iron and bake it. Heat it up, shoot the color on heavily, then bake it. This will show you what you got. I cover this in sedveral old videos. I bought an old used electric, built in oven. It cost me thirty dollars. That's my parts baking oven. I don't cook food in it.
Dear Mike. best wishes to you from New Zealand. Do you enjoy working on 5 speed 1340 Evos aswell as pre-85 bikes?
Sure. 5 speeds are much easier to build. No serious fitting to do. Very modern.
Thanks for the great tutorial mike! I can't seem to find the magnets specifically for a shovelhead. Would the ones that are commonly listed for an evo work?
That's what these are. Sorry if I didn't mention it. They're just something stuck to the side of my toolbox. They came out shortly after Evos did. That's when everyone wanted a cam change on their new bike. A lot of tools happened then.
@@pacificmike9501 Thanks Mike you're the best!
Hi. Mike. I have a question about the upper and lower push tube seals on my 117 S&S mtr. I got a seal kit from J&P and it came with 8 identical round seals which are the ones that came out of the motor originally. But the kit also came with 4 quad seals , should I have used the quad seals in the lifter boxes instead of the round o rings . What application is used for the quad seal. It was really hard to get the retainers back on the upper push tubes
They are different options offered in the kit. Whatever works best for you is what you should use.
Hi Mike, could you give some advice or tricks by replacing those rollers of the 4 tappets? I have a Andrews AB camshaft for my late Shovel. 1980 fxwg. Thank you! ✌️
I believe there is a fixture available from Jim's Machine that holds he lifter while you drill out the old pin and then holds it while you install the new one. Be sure you follow instructions from Andrews on that cam. Clearances are critical.
@@pacificmike9501 Thank you! 👌✌️👍
Hi Mike ty for the video really enjoy it. Am looking for a shovelhead any advice on what year you prefer as far as mechanical? I am leaning towards a dresser. I have an Ironhead now 1980 any input would be appreciated. All the best to you Kenny
That's all on you. What do you want? What's the purpose. Long rides? Drag racing? Sunday cruising through town? Wanna wow the crowds? Or, just yourself?
@@pacificmike9501 thank you Mike I'm going to give it some thought I have a newer bike for long trips Plus I have my Ironhead I think I would be happy with a seventies dresser to putt around town and Tinker with. They are just hard to find. Thanks again for getting back to me look forward to more videos cheers Kenny
Thank You. Enjoy the search!
Mike please help. I just finished my shovelhead mild rake. Now its time for paint. I want it 70s style. I just want to know what colors were it then
The seventies were a "free for all." It seems anything went. Most common was black. My 65 Pan I road in the seventies was black and white. The black had flakes of many colors lightly sprinkled in it and the tanks had white panels. Then I smashed them and found a black pair with purple scallops. Then I bought a brand new Shovelhead FLH full dresser. It was bright red. I road it home, tore is apart, basically stripped it down to a full fendered with nothing else bike. It stayed red until 1991, when I had her painted a light creamy yellow, which she still is.
Hi Mike. Thoroughly enjoy your vids. One question. How many times have you been "in" this beauty?
45 years, let me see now...
@pacificmike9501 IF, it ever comes to fruition, I worked with a guy who wants to sell me his 93 Fat Boy. He didn't ride it much tho, never got it titled, cause he said he lost the bill of sale and title on his ride home from buying it... blew out of his pocket... and, he's in pretty poor health. He won't make ME pay for it until I get it titled and registered and I live in another state. Well, I gave him a little to help him ship down to me, and we'll see when we see. It'll be my first HD. I'm a trucker and get to ride my V650 classic a few times a year. I've only had it a couple years and is my first bike. I just turned 68. Looking forward to it. Really, !REALLY!, enjoy your work. Any pearls of wisdom concerning this particular ride can I gather from you?
And, thanks for the comeback. I know it's been a few since you posted this video.
Sounds like the start of a new adventure. You'll never be the same.
There's this debate over which way the oil holes in hydraulic lifters should face which was not addressed here.
That's because I'm not using Harley lifters. When using Harley lifters, face the oil holes in the lifters toward themselves, or "inward." When in doubt, look in the service manual.
@@pacificmike9501 Ok, thanks!
Heard you say your gonna clean your pipes, what products do you like? Got a set of upswept pipes on my shovel that are pretty nasty and cant seem to find anything that works that well
Hard work. Stuff is always burned on. I use any of the polishing pastes, some more aggressive than others. It's just hard work and you know you're gradually destroying the chrome.
@@pacificmike9501 good ol elbow grease haha thanx man, love your content, never miss a uploaded🤘
Hey Mike! is there anything special to replacing the wheels on tappets?
Yes. Be careful and take it slow. Some aftermarket suppliers carry a fixture, but I've never had much luck with them. I do them on my drill press and use a small machinist's vise. Again, slow and easy. Not really difficult.
I built a shovel a few years ago using a kit from Jim's to convert to Evo top end oiling. Ran good.(expensive). Do you have any opinions to those convertion kits?
I've heard nothing but good things about them, but, I've never used one.
Mike why did they use 1/4-24 instead of 1/4-28 with the earlier models?
1/4-24 was a common size years ago. Cast metals don't lend themselves very well to fine threads. In about 1974, Harley quit using 1/4-24 on tappet blocks and cam covers and transmission lids and went to 1/4-20. 1/4-20 is a USS size and 1/4-28 is an SAE thread.
@@pacificmike9501 thanks Mike
Nicely done Mike can't wait to hear that shovelhead run, A++ my friend. Mike I have a question my 77 fxe Shovelhead has new front an drear brakes. but the Front brake lever, hard to squeeze and the rear brake goes to the floor, if I pump it it stops my friend said he bled the rear brakes so I don't know what might be wrong
It probably still has air in it. There are pumps for this that suck the air out. Or, you do it the old way and just keep bleeding it. Some times, tapping on the line with a wrench (especially where the bends occur) will break bubbles loose. It can be maddening. Keep at it. Did you use the right fluid for your system? Harley started using Dot 5 fluid in September of 77. I don't know what year bike you have or what components you're using.
@@pacificmike9501 I have a 1977 fxe I don't know what fluid he used I dropped the bike off to get a clutch put on, Mike here is a link you can see my bike you can see what I have th-cam.com/video/qqpHEAZR9Sk/w-d-xo.html
That's a very nice Shovelhead you got there
What is your thoughts on solid lifters for a Shovelhead
I prefer hydraulics in a Shovelhead. As it warms up, the topend grows, causing the clearanced to grow, then the lifters get real noisey. Well worth the money to buy quality hydraulic lifters for a Shovelhead.
I wish they made the twin cams with tappet blocks instead of having the lifters use the case as a sleeve
They did the same thing to Sportsters, starting in 91.
Excellent!😉👍
Thank you! 👍
Gday mike how ya doin mate ?.. I’m looking at upgrading my points to an electric one on my 81 80 cube what system do you use ?.. cheers mate .
The one on my Shovelhead is a Dynatek 2000I. I also use with it, Dynatek coils. I run it single fire with dual plugs and dual coils. Although I'm not doing it at the moment, I set it up to program on my personal computer.
Perhaps I get carried away. Cheers to you!
Ok no worries thank you mate cheers love your videos too by the way
Cheers.
What should my speedo ratio be to transmission on a 78 flh. The one in the bike is 40 to 1 reading incorrect.
Check the parts book.
'you get your methods down after a while' = 'everything is easy once you know how.' :)
And with age, you hope comes wisdom.
Hey Mike, do you know of any who sells refurbished keihin no cv carbs i have torn apart my 79 carb far to many times. I know a lot of people switch to s&s but I'm trying to keep my 79 fxef as close to factory as possible.
I don't know of anyone. They aren't much of a carburetor. If they have sat around very much. The passages get clogged. You have to route them out with tiny wire. Most of the circuitry is through the bowl.
@@pacificmike9501 is there a specific carb that you think is best?
It's a matter of personal preference. The later Keihins have an accelerator pump. A lot of people like S&S carburetors. Some of us old timers run SU's. Then there is the Flatslide Mikuni. Again, just a matter of personal preference.
hi Mike , how come no loctite on the lifter block bolts ?
What is it with all this loctite? Use good bolts. Clean threads. Do you need glue everywhere? Do you think the bike was built with all that glue? There is a time and place for everything. It's just not everywhere.
@@pacificmike9501 i agree with loctite you the run some risks of having it seized in the case
Knowing me, I would have had a rag shoved in the front hole when putting in the rear bolts and alignment bolts. Hahaha. No torque wrench on those, Mike?
You could. I'm kinda honest. I tighten 'em down. I recheck them. When I'm looking the bike over, you know. They take a set.
Let's do it yeah!!!!!:)
Yay!
💙
Thank You.
How many engine capacity this my friend
80 inches.
👍👍👍👍
Thank You
I do prefer timecerts instead of Healy coil
Okay.
Thanks 👍😎perfect!
Enjoy!