1970 FLH Restore project

Cmsnd · #1 03-17-2008, 09:36 PM

Hello all, I'm basically a Britbiker that has crossed over to the "Dark" side (LOL)with the recent purcahse of a 1970 FLH that I am just starting to restore.I plan to keep it stock and return it more or less to it's former self less the bags and such. I would welcome any suggestions as far the engine configuration, and any links to parts suppliers or whatever.
It was not running when i brought it home but I got it running over the weekend for a bit. Then later I did a compression check and I have zero in front and 90 psi in back. I would like to rebuild the engine myself but as I read the HD manual I see where they're are talking about lapping the
connecting rods and and line reaming the cam bushings and they are using a variety of special tools that i don't have. So now I thinking maybe I should farm out the lower end and do the top end myself. Any thoughts on the subject would be appreciated as I am still in the planning stages.

Nomad X · #2 03-17-2008, 10:42 PM

Welcome to HDF

Rodney · #3 03-18-2008, 07:50 AM

Welcome Cmfnd,

you might check the valve adjustment to see that they are not to tight, that will cause loss of compression.
you can purchase assembled flywheels for your 70 from S&S Tedd Cycle { V twin} and others which makes the engine build relatively simple.
It may be in your best interest to find a local Bike shop or someone who has a genuine interest in Shovel Head engines to help you along the way. I would definitively ask around to find a good shop to help you out and not simply take your money and take for ever for you to get anything done. Been there done that, not a good experience [:@]
The local Harley Shop in are area won't work on older bikes PERIOD!
good luck & keep us posted

msgtarmor · #4 03-20-2008, 09:29 PM

Good luck with that!!! I'm rebuilding a 71 FLH. I didn't rebuild the engine bottom end as it was still nice and tight. Had the heads done at a NAPA machine shop (it's where all the local bike shops take theirs!)That was all easy. I had a lot of parts I needed to replace as they were scratched, broken or just too fugly to put back on. That is where it got frustrating!!! Tryin to get replacement parts that fit correctly has caused me to pick up my drinkin!! Gettin pretty tied of wallerin out holes in new chrome parts, watchin the chrome peelin in some cases, and redrillin holes in my fresh new paint!!!! And like Rodney said...Dont take it to your HDdealer for work. On rare ocassion there may be an old shovel mechanic workin there but usually not. Yer best bet is find a local bike shop where they actually ride a shovel or specialize in 'antique' bikes. Here in Oregon there are a few good shops I trust and it sure aint the dealer!!
It'll be alot of trial and error for ya. Yer best bet is to read posts on this forum and you will learn alot.
Have fun!!! Welcome to the forum....
07 FLHRS
89 FXSTC
85 FXWG
71 FLH

[IMG]local://upfiles/43978/A5ECE70FF14C4726A6CBE83FAC3E5FC6.jpg[/IMG]

shovelsrule · #5 04-16-2008, 06:40 PM

Just get the heads and barrels off. You can check the connecting rods for end play and check the oilpump and everyting inside the nosecone for wear (cam and lifters!) without taking the lower end apart. If everything is fine check the barrels, pistons and rings. Also the heads; valves, guides etc.
Most of the things you can check yourself without fancy tools. If you're not sure about something, take it to a shop.

Good luck