Should I remove engine for hardtail install?

[Ccanady]

So Ive searched around on here and have found little information about it. Some guys did and some didn't. Before I begin cutting and welding anything, I was wondering if it would be best to leave the engine in the frame or to just remove it. And what's the procedure to make sure it's aligned right before I permanently weld it? Im having my dad do the welding since he does it for a living, but he doesn't really know anything about alignment. Any help would be greatly appreciated!!

Chris

 

[FrkyMnky]

Depends on the hard tail and what you feel comfortable with. You can leave the engine in to help with alignment or you can build a jig to hold the frame in place. Also it depends on how easily you can or cannot move an entire frame and engine as opposed to just a frame and jig. Really, its up to you on how you want to make sure everything is aligned.

 

[Ccanady]

I'm using a TC Bros. I just wanna make sure it's aligned straight...thats all..the easier, the better.

 

[FrkyMnky]

If you have a way to build a proper jig, then I would do that. Its easier to transport, move, weld, and it shouldn't take too much time. However, if you don't have a proper way to do that, then I would leave the engine in. I would remove any of the ignition components so you don't have any problems, however unlikely that may be.

 

[hard_y_rd]

The engine or jig only keeps the backbone from springing. I would keep it in when making the critical cut. As for everything being aligned, that's up to the guy welding. The way i did mine was to take a few measurements. I think it was from the end of the plug ends to the axle plate and so on. Get er tacked up good than take the engine out for final welds. I might add that my motor was just empty cases as i was rebuilding it at the time.

 

[Ccanady]

Thanks for the feedback. I think leaving the engine in the frame until its tacked in would be easiest. Sounds like more people do that then the jig anyway.

 

[swbill]

We always leave it in until its good and tacked together. Also be sure to put a block spacer between the axel tabs or it will pull in when welding.

 

[Ccanady]

Thanks swbill!! I would have never thought of that!