Howdy Riders, when installing adjustable pushrods the lifter should be fully charged with oil correct? From the adjustment procedures I’ve read it seems it should since Step 1 is to adjust the pushrod until all play is removed and Step 2 is to lengthen the pushrod by 2.5 turns then let the lifter bleed down. It seems that for correct adjustment it is critical the lifter be full of oil and thus at the maximum of its adjustment range but the procedures I’ve seen never mention this. I’m just a bit paranoid about doing it right since so much damage can occur if a pushrod is adjusted too long.

Thanks!

Ted – Denver
2006 Road King

 

Good question, hopefully we'll get an answer soon as I'm pulling my bike apart as soon as I get all my parts. The adjustable pushrods are backordered from Zannoti's.

George.

 

At rest a lifter plunger with no load on it is at its highest piont. When you adjust the pushrod to no free play the lifter plunger is still at its highest point when you add the 2 1/2 turns you are preloading the plunger to the middle of its travel.

Make sure the lifters are on base circle of the cam when you adjust them.

 

thanks Hog-Doc I can now work in peace. Now if those DARN parts would just get here

 

Ahhh, so even if the lifter is not charged with oil it rests at the top of it's travel. If I understand correctly that would explain why none of the procedures I've seen for installing adjustable push rods make an issue of ensuring the lifter is fully charged. I assumed if the lifter was void of oil it would be sitting at the bottom of its travel range. I'm awaiting parts as well so haven't actually had my hands on a lifter.

Many thanks Hog Doc.

Ted - Denver

 

The lifter has a spring inside to hold the plunger up.

 

Got it. Makes perfect sense now.

Thanks all.

Ted - Denver