Has any semi mechanical inclined - installed their own cam?
Stellar HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2012
Posts: 2,664
Likes: 184
From: Indiana, USA
I am replacing the oil pump on my early 88" Twin Cam and replacing the cam plate and tensioners. I already installed 211 cams and new spring tensioners maybe 20k mi ago. I am pulling them again as the oil pump is failing after 50k miles. Anyway what I am going thru is the same as changing cams as the cams need to come out for the oil pump repalcaement. Any value in sharing pictures? Maybe I can put together a little presentation somehow
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 2,007
Likes: 353
From: Ohio
You can do it. But you will need a few things that were already mentioned. But here's a hint. Use your digital camera to photo everything as you dissemble to get to the cam. Take lots of them and make sure they are clear. Use the "macro" capability if you have it. This way you will always know what it looked like before you did anything. Also, if you need help you have pics you can post. Then take pics as you put it back together. This all takes just a few moments. But well worth it.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 66,948
Likes: 4,573
From: TOAK western branch
You can do it. But you will need a few things that were already mentioned. But here's a hint. Use your digital camera to photo everything as you dissemble to get to the cam. Take lots of them and make sure they are clear. Use the "macro" capability if you have it. This way you will always know what it looked like before you did anything. Also, if you need help you have pics you can post. Then take pics as you put it back together. This all takes just a few moments. But well worth it.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 5,478
Likes: 184
From: Mount Airy, MD
As already stated it's not a hard job. Just make sure to replace the cam bearings as well which means a special tool is needed. When reassembling the cams to the oil pump and installing the sprockets make sure all points are aligned correctly. The service manual will guide you thru.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 66,948
Likes: 4,573
From: TOAK western branch
Funny how that works. After doing my crank I think I could do cams in my sleep.
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A cam swap on a twinkie, especially the newer motors, is about as hard as falling out of bed in the morning. The pushrod adjustment isn't difficult, I've done it on the side of the highway when a friend's bike started more noise than usual. Once you've done it, even once, you'll wonder why you waited so long.
