Well I just got my jugs back from the machine shop for a .010" over bore from stock. I got new wiseco pistons and cleaned and painted the heads with semi-gloss high temp black. I need some advice or pointers for installing them now, I have the book but any extra advice would be great!

 

Have someone help you hold the jug while you install the wrist pin and don't pull the piston down any farther than you have to to get the pin in, the bottom rings are not very far above the wrist pin hole. (Don't forget to put the base gaskets on first) another thing is that when you put the rockers on, it may seem that the push rods are not seated (or like they are a bit too long.) Go ahead and tighten the bolts down evenly they are OK as long as you got the rods in the right places. Other than that, follow the book and all should be good. Also watch that the rubber rocker box gaskets stay in the groove, they like to slip out of place easily.

 

Oops, sorry, I was thinking EVO engine... I have not done an Ironhead yet.

 

Hi from old England! Hopefully an expert will call by soon. Use good quality gaskets and take your time. A biking buddy is a great idea, as those iron jugs are heavy when trying to install the pistons (I've worked on a shovel).

 

Thanks for the advice! So what is the best way to compress the rings?Also I made a piston pin remover tool with a threaded rod and a piece of pvc pipe with nuts and washers like it said in the Clymers manual, I hope it works. Do I put one clip on the end of the piston first and then put the pin in and then the other clip?This is my first attempt and my first Harley thanks!

 

The 'best' way is with a suitable ring compressor. They come in different sizes. I did it way back then with my fingers, but that is a pretty risky thing to do. A ring compressor is a luxury, but well worth it! They are pretty cheap on Ebay, probably also at any local auto store.