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Crank sprocket on cam job.

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Old Sep 24, 2022 | 07:45 PM
  #11  
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Ironically, I watched an engine build video this evening and one of the first things he mentioned was this sprocket.

I’ll be getting it ready for my stage 2
 
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Old Sep 25, 2022 | 06:15 AM
  #12  
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What would be the proper way to install this tighter small cam sprocket ?
 
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Old Sep 25, 2022 | 07:53 AM
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Looks like a nice part. I've seen a few engine builders using it.

Not saying the sprocket couldn't use a tighter fit, but when the sprocket retainer is tightened down it shouldn't move at all.

Has anyone seen a pic or video of the OEM sprocket's mating surface or the pinion shaft all chewed up from rocking back and forth?

Post up if you find one. Would be interesting to see.
 
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Old Sep 25, 2022 | 10:17 AM
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Originally Posted by mjwebb
My point was simply after 6 model years now and countless posts about cam upgrade it is never mentioned, referred to, recommended or on parts lists from owners, until now…we can all agree that if it was a problematic part it would have been reported here as nauseum. Bearings, lifters, cuffs, etc. but never mention of sprocket
First I mean no offense to you. I don't post here nearly as much as you do. I've been building Harleys for quite a a few years, but surely don't know as much as some other guys. I'm always learning, and I come here to see what's new. Over the years I've become friends with some of the best Harley engine guys in my area. I've learned plenty from them. On the occasion that I read about something here that I haven't heard of before, I don't post anything. I read posts from guys who have experienced that particular issue. I'm not looking for opinions from those who haven't dealt with that issue. What can I learn from that? I'm looking for facts and this is a valuable resource for that. Again, I mean no offense to you, and you certainly have the right to your opinion, and your right. This is not a major issue that will leave us stranded somewhere. It's just something that is wise to replace if you change cams to gain performance. These sprockets will just give you more accurate cam timing!
 

Last edited by Northside; Sep 25, 2022 at 10:20 AM.
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Old Sep 25, 2022 | 10:35 AM
  #15  
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Originally Posted by Northside
First I mean no offense to you. I don't post here nearly as much as you do. I've been building Harleys for quite a a few years, but surely don't know as much as some other guys. I'm always learning, and I come here to see what's new. Over the years I've become friends with some of the best Harley engine guys in my area. I've learned plenty from them. On the occasion that I read about something here that I haven't heard of before, I don't post anything. I read posts from guys who have experienced that particular issue. I'm not looking for opinions from those who haven't dealt with that issue. What can I learn from that? I'm looking for facts and this is a valuable resource for that. Again, I mean no offense to you, and you certainly have the right to your opinion, and your right. This is not a major issue that will leave us stranded somewhere. It's just something that is wise to replace if you change cams to gain performance. These sprockets will just give you more accurate cam timing!
sure, no big deal..I was just trying to offer thoughts on OP's comments he asked for

"wondering if this is really worth $60. Any thoughts on if this is a good preventative measure purchase or just another non essential item to take my money."

can't define worth because like most of the available replacement parts that's relative and subjective

and regarding his comment "Any thoughts on if this is a good preventative measure purchase"

assumed "preventative measure" usually refers to avoid a potential problem, in which case I stated that the OEM part has no history of being one reported here since the M8 inception

but hey, if it takes up the play / slack which solves a shortcoming of the OEM sprocket not performing properly then it's a good thing..if the OEM performs its duty properly then I'd rather spend the money elsewhere
 
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Old Sep 25, 2022 | 10:39 AM
  #16  
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Originally Posted by JoeeJoee
What would be the proper way to install this tighter small cam sprocket ?
This one was a tight fit so I cleaned up the inside of the bore with emery cloth to make it an interference fit.

 

Last edited by OldMike; Sep 25, 2022 at 10:41 AM.
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Old Sep 25, 2022 | 02:00 PM
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Originally Posted by lp
Looks like a nice part. I've seen a few engine builders using it.

Not saying the sprocket couldn't use a tighter fit, but when the sprocket retainer is tightened down it shouldn't move at all.

Has anyone seen a pic or video of the OEM sprocket's mating surface or the pinion shaft all chewed up from rocking back and forth?

Post up if you find one. Would be interesting to see.
I was kind of under that same impression. Does the bolt not hold the sprocket down, or is it still free to move around?
 
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Old Sep 25, 2022 | 02:10 PM
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Originally Posted by propflux01
I was kind of under that same impression. Does the bolt not hold the sprocket down, or is it still free to move around?
It doesn't move once bolted down.
 
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Old Sep 25, 2022 | 03:49 PM
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Originally Posted by Northside
. I'm not looking for opinions from those who haven't dealt with that issue.
If you have been silently following this forum I doubt you are surprised, it's a common occurrence.
I have read about this issue and I'm glad Old Mike provided a pic. I say don't let the opportunity pass to make an improvement when you are in the cam chest esp when it's $60 your considering. I imagine you will be replacing other inferior parts, inner bearing, lifters and cuffs.
 
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Old Sep 26, 2022 | 07:37 AM
  #20  
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It does happen. It's very rare ( 4 in 10 years) , but I have had to replace flywheels because the machined flat had become a curve. 1 had broken the retaining bolt, so I expect that damage came from the sprocket losing it's support. Pretty obvious rattle. The other 3 all had a lifter tick sound, coming from the cam cavity, that went away above idle.
 
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