On my winter project list: Swap the stock cam on my '97 Fat Boy for an Andrews EV27. Planning to reuse my stock pushrods and lifters.

I'm just about to order:

- EV27
- .055" shims
- Koyo (Torrington) Bearing
- James gasket set
- tappet block alignment set
- assembly lube

Anything I'm overlooking?

Thinking about also getting the Jim's Inner Cam Bearing Removal Tool (as opposed using to the rental one from AutoZone).

I've seen different opinions on whether I need the magnetic lifter tool.

This'll be a little beyond what level of work I've done before (I've replaced my stator and I've changed fluids, etc.). But, I've read a bunch on it and feel like I can handle it if I take my time and try not to do anything stupid.

 

Don't buy the jims tool. Save yourself some money and get it from heartland manufacturing

 

Good call.

Looks like they make a tool that is just the installer for $50, or one for the whole installation that's $90.

 

I have a used cam I use for tapping in the bearing versus an installer.

Griz

 

I doubt you will need the shims..I didn't
If you want to leave the lifter blocks in place then the magnetic lifter holders will save you some time and trouble.
If you want to check end play on the cam you will need to remove one of the lifter blocks.
The tappet alignment set is a waste of money IMO but they are cheap.

I couldn't agree more!!!!
Good quality tools for a much better choice.

 

I haven't done it but I understand that you can rent a bearing puller from Autozone for cheap.

Use your old cam (as Griz said) and you should be out $0 for tools.

 

Yeah, I've heard opinions on both side of the fence on using the old cam.

Since I'm doing this for the first time, I'm tempted to get the right tool to lessen my chance of screwing it up...as much as I'd like to save money. Could always eBay it when I'm done and get some of my money back.

 

You should really consider replacing the lifters. If one goes bad you'll be starting over and then some. Needle bearings will trash oil pump and scatter themselves in your engines innards.

 

Buy the tool. You'll be happy if you get the puller/installer all in one. It makes it very nice and less worrisome for your first time

 

Haven't been able to decide on this. Seems like for every post I read saying to change the lifters, I read one saying it's not necessary...

My bike has only 32,000 miles on it (10,000 of those put on in the last year, by me). I know the earlier Evo's had worse lifters than the later ones like my '97.

One school of thought seems to be change 'em as long as I'm opening her up. Another seems to be that my stock lifters should last another 35-70,000 miles.

I don't wanna waste money, but I also don't wanna cheapskate my way to a breakdown.