Is everyone in agreement to buy the S&S parts over Screaming Eagle? About the same price....

Thanks,

Matt from Ohio

 

In agreement?

 

Matt,
Don't change the chain; your old chain has been "polished" with the 43K miles already rolled up and will be easier on the new tensioners. Strongly suggest replacing the OEM tensioner with the CYCO tensioners; less to worry about in the future. Also upgrade the inner cam bearings as well and take Scott's advice and check and record crank runout while you have the cam chest open.

I am all about encouraging forum members to take on DIY projects like this; changing tensioners is not a difficult job. If one has basic mechanical knowledge, skills and tools, the only other "too" required is the service manual for your bike. Once turned over to a shop, one never knows what is done or not done to the bike; unacceptable to me. If you are so inclined this would be a great DIY project and in addition to saving money, a great way to become more familiar with your motorcycle. If you get stuck, there is plenty of help on this forum.

The basic job is removing rocker box covers which will require raising or removing the fuel tank for access; pulling pushrods from the top, purchasing the magnets that hold the lifters up so you don't have to remove the lifter block covers/lifters; removing the exhaust and possibly the right side foot board; removing the cam chest cover; removing the cam plate/cams; removing and replacing the inner cam bearings; replacing the cam chain tensioners and re-assembling in reverse order. I have walked several first time DIYers through complete top end rebuilds via the internet all of which were intimidated by the job but also motivated to DIY the project; all were successful and happy when the job was done. You will get frustrated along the way and wonder why you didn't let a local tech do the job but when complete and back on the road, you will be proud of the accomplishment and have a different relationship with the bike.

I have no issues with the SE Quick Install Adustable pushrods (PN 18404-08), about $135, plus shipping from an online discount dealer like Newcastle (used to be Zanotti's), Surdyke, etc. The kit includes everything you need, pushrods, tubes/clips and O-rings. However, I would go with S&S for lifters over SE. As usual, all above is JMHO.