If your certain the noise is lifter tapping and your bikes out of warranty, yes, get some decent lifters ( I used VThunder by Comp Cams, good quality and under $75 ) and the HD SE tapered adjustable pushrod kit that includes everything you need. Word of advice if you go with the SE pushrods, do three(3) full turns on them and not the 2 1/2 turns that they call for in the instructions. Your also need the 2 gaskets for the tappet block covers.

 

Before you go into replacing the stock pushrods and or lifters you might do an oil change from stnd weight to syn 50. I did and it does make a noticeable difference for my bike. BTW I changed the lifters and went with Andrews adjustable pushrods when I did my install. No problems after two seasons and lots of riding enjoyment.

 

Well let's try mine and see. As I said earlier, I've got the 26 cam already in my bike with adjustables installed. As I'm going to replace the lifters, rockers and breathers it'll be simple for me to install the stock pushrods (as I had intended.)

I'll report back any differences in noise, clatter, whatever in the next week or so ( all the parts are nearly here now,) so we'll have an actual before and after comparison using my bike too.

For me it'll be easy. If the stock pushrods make a racket, I'll simply cut 'em out and re install my adjustables. ( My bet is I won't have to do that, but we'll see.)

Good discussion guys...

 

Terra
It's either an incorrect pushrod preload or a weak lifter(s). The only way to guarantee correct lifter preload is with quality adjustables such as those sold by S&S. Screamin Eagle jam nuts crack and break. Cover gap is a real bitch too. No way I would use those. But that's just me.

 

The older SE pushrods had nut breakage issues. The new ones do not.....what is cover gap?

 

I'd bet he is referring to the opening (gap) in the push rod tubes when installing adj push rods.

 

The clips cover up that area just fine and the larger area makes adjustment a lot easier. I have only put on about 500 miles with them installed but they are working fine for me so far(knock on wood).

 

No need to convince me, I was trying to add some insight to your question of Lowcountryjoe's statement about "cover gap".

 

I'm back with the now installed stock pushrods on the Andrews 26 cams. There is only the click at idle attributable to my gear drive. At speed only the slightest "machine noise" is coming from the top end.

I installed new lifters, rocker arms and shafts and did shim the rear pair .007" to get to the .004" I was looking for. Nothing needed on the front cylinder.

I only took it for a short 10 minute ride this evening but I'd guess that this drive train set up is perhaps slightly quieter than with the adjustable pushrods I just removed.

Hope this helps.

 

When someone referred to the old SE pushrods having failed lock nuts, how old of a version are you speaking of? What year did they change?