Ok, Just went over 100 miles on the break in so I ‘forced’ myself to do some wrenchin’ instead of ridin’.
I know this is old hat to you guys who have been spinning wrenches for years but I am flabbergasted at how smooth it is and at how well it runs.
I guess this is a real testament to the design of these engines and to the fact that no matter how rough a shape they are in, they just wanna run.
I thought it was running pretty good before, but now, wow!
I can see why 5twins says that due to age pretty much all of these can benefit from a fresh top end and will not hesitate to do this on future projects.
The biggest challenge in this break in process is keeping the revs down and resisting really cracking that throttle. I know there's a whole bunch more in there.
Checked things over:
Cam chain adjuster was a wee bit loose which I guess makes sense as it has probably stretched a little.
Head torque - this is the 4th retorque. Bolts are holding but the studs/acorns still took a little more.
3 valves had opened up a thou.
I had only static timed the engine on the bench. Little yellow meter dwell showed right side at 22.5* and left at 23.5*. Adjusted both to 22.5*
Timing was right on on the right side, a little advanced at 3000 on the left so reset that.
Plugs looked good. A little sooty around the edge, but tan on the electrodes.
Forgot to turn the right side mix screw out a ¼ turn .
Still getting some popping/backfire on decel on the right (holed muffler side) occasionally.
Checked my notes and the right carb was already set a little richer.
Not a big deal to me. Sounds like most of the Harley's I hear around here.
I’ll play with it a bit and see if it’s maybe just too lean.
I am so happy I went through all I had to, to do this job. It’s like a brand new engine!
Thanks again guys for all your help.
More travel pics to come!