EVO All Evo Model Discussion

Tappet Screen

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Old Apr 13, 2015 | 09:37 AM
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Default Tappet Screen

Hello all. I have a '97 flht, ev 27, muffler pipes, and thunder jet kit in the cv carb.


Last fall I paid an Indy to change the head gaskets. When I first picked the bike up, it was quiet and ran very strong. On the first ride the top end started making some louder than usual tapping noises. I took it back to the Indy, he double checked everything, said that the tappet screen was dirty and once he cleaned it up it was all good. I rode the bike home no problems.


Yesterday, I took it out for a while, it was quiet at first, and then the top end started chattering again. I brought it home and can't seem to get the plug/screw out of the block to access the tappet screen. Is there a trick to get the screw/plug out?
 
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Old Apr 13, 2015 | 09:53 AM
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No tricks I'm aware. Mine comes right out. You may need the special socket with the big flat head end on it. Be careful threading it back in. I have heard that those threads are easy to goober up.
 
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Old Apr 13, 2015 | 10:02 AM
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Old Apr 13, 2015 | 10:03 AM
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Thanks for the info. I know the threads are fine. I really boggled my mind that it wouldn't come out.
 
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Old Apr 13, 2015 | 10:07 AM
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Thanks!! and Ordered......


Do you think the assembly lube that the Indy used could be clogging the screen?
 
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Old Apr 13, 2015 | 10:12 AM
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I heard of the oil filter element coming apart before.
 
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Old Apr 13, 2015 | 10:12 AM
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I use the end of an impact screwdriver on a 3/8 ratchet with the widest and thickest flat head blade. First time I removed mine it was tough to move.
 
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Old Apr 13, 2015 | 10:20 AM
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Originally Posted by flhchaz
Do you think the assembly lube that the Indy used could be clogging the screen?
No but I do think you need to cut open your oil filter and see what is inside.
 
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Old Apr 13, 2015 | 10:56 AM
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Yeah, something is going on with that motor. Post 85 Evos never have stuff trapped by the tappet screen unless something is coming loose. Certainly cut the oil filter open and see what's inside it.
 
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Old Apr 13, 2015 | 11:06 AM
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I knew I should have done the head gaskets myself. I've owned this bike since '99 and never had this issue. I'm just going to clean the tappet screen, change the oil and check the filter.
 
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