Rate the complexity.

[PK Project]

On a scale from 1 to 10, how would rate the complexity of rebuilding a Shovelhead (1973 in this case), 1 being extremely easy needing nothing more than the ability to read a manual, a little mechanical ability along with some common tools and 10 being extremely difficult with the need for a lot of specialty tools and specialized training or expert help? I am a pretty good wrench having rebuilt more than one automobile engine, but have never had a motorcycle engine apart (one exception was an old dirt bike I used to have in my younger days, but it obviously was not a HD V-Twin).

Let me know what you think.

Thanks in advance.

[Badassbrutus]

10 also depends on the condition of the engine.

[MrMarty51]

The bottom end requires some specialty tools and a lot of patience and knowlege.
If You are going to rebuild this engine Yourself then I would suggest removing the top end then taking the bottom to a known good Harley rebuilder with the tools and knowlege to balance and rebuild the bottom,The top is mostly basic stuff but do have a good manual available and follow it to the T.

[Dave63]

Top end: 8.5 You'll need a manual.

Bottom: 11..... Specialty tools and experience. It's a roller crank, not babbit bearings. Big difference. As well, you need to have the crank indexed, and I'd only trust that to an expert.

Cam chest: 8 You'll need some specialty tools and again....a manual.

[PK Project]

Originally Posted by Dave63

Top end: 8.5 You'll need a manual.

Bottom: 11..... Specialty tools and experience. It's a roller crank, not babbit bearings. Big difference. As well, you need to have the crank indexed, and I'd only trust that to an expert.

Cam chest: 8 You'll need some specialty tools and again....a manual.

Dave, with regard to indexing the crank, my understanding is that this is what drives the timing. Is this correct for a '73 Shovelhead or is the timing driven by the cam?

[SCHMIDTYS]

I think if you checked around and found some greybeard shovel experts to ask your question you'd get a unanimous answer ... remove the engine and bring it to me intact with the ignition and carb . So on your 1 - 10 scale I'd put it at a 3 for R&R .

[Dave63]

Originally Posted by PK Project

Dave, with regard to indexing the crank, my understanding is that this is what drives the timing. Is this correct for a '73 Shovelhead or is the timing driven by the cam?

The indexing of the crank, is the process of "trueing" both crank flywheels perfectly on a single crank pin. If it's off, the engine will vibrate and come apart.

Crank pinion gear to cam gear timing, (in conjunction with the breather gear) is simple. But, (there's always a but) endplay is critical, as is pinion to cam gear lash.

There are 3 critical measurements with an HD motor:

1.) Endplay

2.) Runout

3.) Clearence/lash

You'll need a dial indicator, and math skills.

It's not impossible.

Crankshafts require indexing, endplay and runout measurements.

Cams require endplay and Lash measurements.

Valve adjustment requires lash measurements.

Cylinder/piston fitment requires clearence measurements.

Valve guide, valve height, valve seat and every suface has to be measured to insure the engine is correct and meets tolorences, or it won't last. Guys make simple mistakes that cost them a lot of money in the long run.

Crack a set of cases and you lose 2 VIN numbered pieces of aluminum and a good portion of the value of the bike.

It's not rocket science, but it's not a weekend job with pliars and a phillips screwdriver, either. .

Listen to Schmidty and find a reputable builder that knows Shovelheads.

[ruby4me]

12 on a scale of 1 to 10. I rode the same shovelhead for 22yrs and I never split the cases by my self. I did everything else but not the splitting of cases.