Hi, I need to remove all my casing as I am having them polished. Is there any advice anyone can offer prior to me doing it?

Thanks!

Removing the cases is a complete disassembly of the motor.

Or are you talking about just the primary and gearcase covers?

Those aren't as involved, but there are still some things to know, particularly for the gearcase cover that really ought to have the pressure on it relieved by pulling the rocker boxes.

Removing the cases is a complete disassembly of the motor.

Or are you talking about just the primary and gearcase covers?

Those aren't as involved, but there are still some things to know, particularly for the gearcase cover that really ought to have the pressure on it relieved by pulling the rocker boxes.


yeah, just the primary and gearcase covers! Need to make a start asap so all the help you can offer is appreciated!

The primary side is JUST a cover so it is easiest. Not so the gearcase side. It contains bushings for the cam gears. It must be removed exactly straight out; it should not be wiggled out or pryed. Will probably require a few taps with a rubber mallot.

For the gearcase cover you must relieve the pressure of the valve springs on the rockers/pushrods/lifters/cams. On my ironhead i rotate the engine to compression TDC and remove the pushrods. Not necessary to remove the rocker covers to do this.

I would add if you can get the gearcase cover puller. If not be real carefull when pulling the cover. The cams have a tendancy to stick in the cover. If they do take a chance of them falling out and if they hit the ground. You more then likely will damage the cams. Try and keep them in the gearcase. Pull the cover off a little at a time making sure the cams stay in their bushings.