How hard is a cam install,
Extreme HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 11,615
Likes: 50
From: Baton Rouge, LA
Yeah, just slapping in a set of 107 flat tops wouldn't be a big leap forward. If I do a 107 build, it would be at 10.5 static cr with longer cams and head work. Thats about as far as I'd want to go without welding and blueprinting the crank.
If I pull the motor out of the frame to build up the crank, it makes sense to go ahead and have the cases machined for larger spigots. But when you start adding up the costs for crank work, plus buying big bore cylinders vs boring your stock ones, the costs ramp up so fast, I bounce back to thinking about doing the 107. The only downside to that is that I know I'd still want more.
If I pull the motor out of the frame to build up the crank, it makes sense to go ahead and have the cases machined for larger spigots. But when you start adding up the costs for crank work, plus buying big bore cylinders vs boring your stock ones, the costs ramp up so fast, I bounce back to thinking about doing the 107. The only downside to that is that I know I'd still want more.
Anyway, I digress as usual. The bottom-line is that I do even "bolt-in" upgrades with a great deal of caution, and you seem to have your bases covered in the same context. I was assured the cam-only upgrade would not require further enhancements, and so far it has worked out that way.
Last edited by iclick; Apr 8, 2011 at 12:00 PM.
Road Warrior
Joined: Feb 2010
Posts: 1,534
Likes: 10
I have my set of 255's in my hand now.
How can I verify that the alignment dots are in the correct position, before installing them in the bike?
Thanks
Extreme HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 11,615
Likes: 50
From: Baton Rouge, LA
Road Warrior
Joined: Feb 2010
Posts: 1,534
Likes: 10
You can download the Tech Tip (TT296) here. If you have trouble downloading it, take the rear cam and look at it from the splined end with the dots visible. Orient the wide tooth in the splined end at 12 o'clock and count CW. The dot should be on the 6th groove. See photo.
Damn, Iclick to the rescue again.................
What do I do if my new cam dot doesn't line up on the 6th groove?
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 2,598
Likes: 19
From: Naples FL / Pine TWP PA
I'll have to disagree too. I enjoy wrenching on my bike almost as much a riding.
To reinstall, extend the pushrod cover so it's seated at both the top and bottom, then slide in the clip, top edge first. Slip a flat blade screwdriver under the bottom edge, and lever the screwdriver upwards, while pushing the clip inwards with your other hand.
It's really easy after you've done it once. There is a tool you can buy, but it's not necessary, just a little luxury.
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2nd Gear
Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 6
Likes: 0
From: Illinois
Aside from the help given here, add this: When you remove the cam cover, some oil will flow out onto the frame. There is a wiring harness strapped along the frame. Take a piece of aluminum foil and wrap the area under the cam cover first and it will be a lot less to clean up afterwards. Sam's club even has the foil cut to size for hot dog vendors.
