Inner Cam Chain Tensioner Shoe (HELP)

[FL FLASH]

I need help with installing the inner cam chain tensioner shoe. I don't have the cam chain tensioner unloader tool. Any idea how I could install the shoe with out that tool? Also when I pulled the push rods out I noticed on one of the hydraulic lifters the keeper on the top of the lifter was just laying there out of the groove. Can that be put back in or do I need new lifters.Thanks Flash (1999 FLHR 45000 miles)

[Jeffd]

45,000 miles you dodged a bullet with the lifter you should put new ones in.  You can use a wrench to unload the tensioner and use a nail to hold it back.  REmember when you unload the tensioner to ease it back down the the aid of a screw driver.

[FL FLASH]

Jeffd, I used a 1/2" wrench and a small Allen wrench to pin them back on the original shoes while mounted on the plate. I need to take pressure off the spring so I can slide the new shoe onto the mounting pin. Thanks Flash

[06roadglide]

you'll have to remove the cams from the cam plate

[FL FLASH]

06Roadglide, That's what I thought. I was trying to save time on not disassembling the cams from the plate.Thanks Flash

[TheBagger]

06Roadglide, That's what I thought. I was trying to save time on not disassembling the cams from the plate.Thanks Flash

Are you replacing the cam bearings also?  You should be at 45k and doing the ball to roller upgrade since you have a '99.

[Sturge]

you'll have to remove the cams from the cam plate

At least you asked BEFORE doing...I discovered this when I was putting things back together on my build.  I used the oven method for bearing installation and was so focused on getting the new bearings/cams installed I didn't even think of dropping the tensioner in place first.  Thought for sure I could figure out a way to get that damn thing in but I was unsuccessful...had to pull it apart and do it over.

[djl]

I need help with installing the inner cam chain tension er shoe. I don't have the cam chain tensioner unloader tool. Any idea how I could install the shoe with out that tool? Also when I pulled the push rods out I noticed on one of the hydraulic lifters the keeper on the top of the lifter was just laying there out of the groove. Can that be put back in or do I need new lifters.Thanks Flash (1999 FLHR 45000 miles)

What everyone else said about the tensioner. Replace the lifter, I just had one of those lifter retainer clips run through my new billet plate/pump; I wouldn't take the chance.

[FL FLASH]

Thanks to all that replied. Flash

[HDSlowride]

How would a lifter retainer clip find it's way into the cam chest to get in an oil pump?


[/quote]
What everyone else said about the tensioner. Replace the lifter, I just had one of those lifter retainer clips run through my new billet plate/pump; I wouldn't take the chance.
[/quote]

[duke76]

I have replaced the inner tensioner without pulling the cams back out, what I did was pound out the steel dowel that the tensioner pivots on, just about as easy to pull the cams out but youy can do it that way, you might need some extra hands to line things up when you go back together, Todd

[FL FLASH]

06Roadglide, That's what I thought. I was trying to save time on not disassembling the cams from the plate.Thanks Flash

Are you replacing the cam bearings also?  You should be at 45k and doing the ball to roller upgrade since you have a '99.




TheBagger' I had the dealer do the recall upgrade for the cam bearings with all new parts in the cam case/ cams chains,bearings
,tensioners,lifters,oil pump,etc.oil & filter change,the service manager did me a favor and put in fuel injected cams in a carb. bike( more lift) @ about 8500 miles. H-D paid for it all under the 5 year warranty for 1999-2000 model years. All parts were OK when inspected back then, I had them do it for peace of mind as I was about to do a 800 mile trip.Flash