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adjustable rods?

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Old Jun 30, 2013 | 04:06 PM
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Default adjustable rods?

I just completed my gear drive cams and quickee adjustable rods installation and I have to say the gear drive was a piece of cake to install! What a difference and it doesn't have a very whiny gear noise like I was expecting, but my question is about the rod adjustment.

I watched the S&S video for adjusting the rods and the mechanic said to turn the adjuster 20 flats when snug on the base circle. I followed his instructions by the book to the letter but after firing up the motor for the first time, I have a loud knocking noise. The Youtube video was of the mechanic working on a 96 and I have an 88. Is there a difference between the two when adjusting the rods?

By the way, I love the difference from stock. I didn't expect such a boost in power and sound!
 
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Old Jun 30, 2013 | 04:21 PM
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No difference. What tpi are your pushrods?
 
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Old Jun 30, 2013 | 04:46 PM
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33 TPI just like the video!
 
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Old Jun 30, 2013 | 04:56 PM
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How long did you let it run after it started? Lifters can take some time to pump up.
 
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Old Jun 30, 2013 | 04:58 PM
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Normal, should quiet down in a couple of minutes.
 
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Old Jun 30, 2013 | 05:04 PM
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Initial start up was about 5 minutes. I didn't want it to idle too long in our 3 digit temperatures. I took it for a ride around the block and it sounded better at idle, but fairly loud when getting on it. I guess it needs a little time to break in. I sure love this set-up!
 
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Old Jun 30, 2013 | 05:44 PM
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Originally Posted by JohnSWA
33 TPI just like the video!
No such animal. 32 tpi, yes. I think you will discover you need more preload. 20 flats is 3.2 turns. I would suggest 4 if the noise continues.
 
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Old Jun 30, 2013 | 06:08 PM
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Originally Posted by jus2anoyu
No such animal. 32 tpi, yes. I think you will discover you need more preload. 20 flats is 3.2 turns. I would suggest 4 if the noise continues.
Thanks, Jus but the sound has lessened and I'm loving this! Thanks for your help!
 
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Old Jun 30, 2013 | 07:42 PM
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Originally Posted by JohnSWA
Thanks, Jus but the sound has lessened and I'm loving this! Thanks for your help!
Nothing like a job well done! In all seriousness, if you find it gets noisy when really hot, a few more flats can make all the difference!
 
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Old Jun 30, 2013 | 08:09 PM
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Originally Posted by jus2anoyu
Nothing like a job well done! In all seriousness, if you find it gets noisy when really hot, a few more flats can make all the difference!
I will take your advice. Thanks again for your help! I hope to meet you some day!
 
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