Ironhead Pushrod tubes and new cylinders

85mm · #1 23rd April 2010

I just spent an hour trying to install the clips on my pushrod tubes. Two popped on rather quickly but the other two wouldn't go. I tried all different kinds of screwdrivers, spun the tubes to different positions, strained until one of my nads fell out and rolled under the cabinet (I'll get it later). Finally, I figured out that rough spots on the castings of my new cylinders were in just the right place to catch the sliding collars just before I got them low enough to put the clips on. I bent up a thin piece of sheet metal to slide behind the collars and the clips popped right in. Watch out with new cylinders. I've already had problems getting the base nuts on (see my other thread on these adventures).

GA_Ironhead · #2 24th April 2010

Use the clips and the screwdriver to lever the collars down. Place the screwdriver blade on the collar, angled down slightly. Put the clip into the top of the PR cover where it seats into the rocker cover, with the screwdriver blade under the clip. Lever the clip into place.

Somebody posted great pictures of the process, but I can't find them.

IronMick · #3 24th April 2010

Quote:

Originally Posted by 85mm

... I figured out that rough spots on the castings of my new cylinders were in just the right place to catch the sliding collars just before I got them low enough to put the clips on. I bent up a thin piece of sheet metal to slide behind the collars and the clips popped right in ...

I had this on the rear cylinder of my 1980, and have it now on the front cyl of my 1978; 1 tube on each. I use the lid from a plastic yogurt container having trimmed off the lip around the edge. It is good for a few uses then it is worn out. The tin would be better - if you have it. I have yogurt containers.

72Iron · #4 24th April 2010

Quote:

Originally Posted by IronMick

I had this on the rear cylinder of my 1980, and have it now on the front cyl of my 1978; 1 tube on each. I use the lid from a plastic yogurt container having trimmed off the lip around the edge. It is good for a few uses then it is worn out. The tin would be better - if you have it. I have yogurt containers.

Let me guess, you're very cultured.....

I have yet to figure out the perfect way to make the task easier, but I'll keep practicing.

Ferrous Head · #5 24th April 2010

I think there's a purpose built tool to help do this but I've been just using brute force for so long I can't be bothered buying them. As long as you have 3 hands it's not that hard.
(It's a shame all of mine are keft hands but there you go)

Mud · #6 25th April 2010

Through years of struggling with harley's stupid push rod tube set-up, I discovered a tool for installing clips. A simple paint can lid opener that i got from Lowe's when i got some paint. The flat hook fits great in the clip, and the "T" handle lets you grip and push. It makes this miserable process a little easier.
Mud E. Mudhole

chevelle · #7 25th April 2010

I think what 85mm is saying is the cup was hanging up on a fin or rough nub of the cylinder castings. Are they Import cylinders? When the cups are loaded down from the outer area of the cups with a screwdriver I believe they angle inward which limits clearance even more.

IronMick · #8 26th April 2010

Quote:

Originally Posted by chevelle

... When the cups are loaded down from the outer area of the cups with a screwdriver I believe they angle inward which limits clearance even more.

This is exactly what happens with the spring retainers/cups. And they carch on a cylinder fin. Sliding a thin piece of tin or flexible plastic in behind the pushrod tube is the solution to this problem.

85mm · #9 26th April 2010

This is my first IH and it's got lot's of surprizes for the beginner. I'm sure the cylinders are asian made. I'm gratefull that I can still get the parts, but many of my new pieces don't fit exactly right. Oh they're close, but you know someones pumping these things out without feedback from the customers. So you've got to always watch out for the little aggravating things that constantly come up with new parts. Hope this thread saves others some frustration.

Jafa39 · #10 26th April 2010

Quote:

Originally Posted by 85mm

This is my first IH and it's got lot's of surprizes for the beginner. I'm sure the cylinders are asian made. I'm gratefull that I can still get the parts, but many of my new pieces don't fit exactly right. Oh they're close, but you know someones pumping these things out without feedback from the customers. So you've got to always watch out for the little aggravating things that constantly come up with new parts. Hope this thread saves others some frustration.

Don't assume that because the fit is a little off that they are Asian....some US-made IH parts are like that...