Cam bearing tools

[stro1965]

So after watching the S&S cam swap video:

Cam Replacement on a Harley Davidson Twin Cam, including Pushrod Removal • J&P Cycles

I'm reasonably confident I can tackle this project on my own.  I'm excited about doing it actually, as I've always shied away from doing anything "internal".  (But I can bolt stuff on with the best of 'em!)  The only hiccup for me is pulling and replacing the cam bearings.  Are suitable tools usually available for loan at auto parts stores?  What about checking the crank run-out while I'm in there?  Can I borrow a dial indicator as well?  Or don't even worry about it with chain drive cams?  Oh...and is it really necessary to replace the snap ring on the outside of the thrust washer? 

Any help/advice is appreciated!

[2006FXDCI]

Just did my first cam swap and also installed the zippers cam chain tensioners. That video is excellent and along with a service manual the job is pretty easy. I borrowed the cam bearing puller and installer from my local HD dealership. They didn't even charge me rent ! If you buy the cam service kit it comes with everything you need including the new stamped steel breathers. I would definitely replace the old snap ring and make sure you put it on the correct way and double check that it is seated in the groove.

[les]

I recommend you just buy the inner cam bearing remover tool and the installer tool...you might use them later or you could peddle them.

Also...

http://harleytechtalk.com/htt/index.php/topic,58026.0.html

http://harleytechtalk.com/htt/index.php/topic,23341.msg239707.html#msg239707

...many more threads on this topic.

[Lowcountry Joe]

I bought and used the Gary Beatty bearing puller/installer tool.
I "borrowed" the runout plate and gauge from Fueling for $129 to check my runout.
Follow the service manual recommendations.  Don't skimp on snap rings.

[Coyote]

MBS makes a top notch tool.

http://harleytechtalk.com/htt/index.php/topic,60238.msg643416.html#msg643416

[les]

Coyote!  Cut it out!  I just bought two tools tonight because of you.  I ain't reading any more of your posts, until I get some more money.

[lilchief]

Stro,
Well I usually don't lend my tools out, but since I know you, and I know where to find you, I have the proper tools that you can borrow. And, FWIW, I changed out my snap ring. Let me know when you're ready for the tools.

Lil' Chief

[stro1965]

Ok, thanks guys.  I'll pick up a new snap ring and oil pump o-ring tomorrow, as well as the lifter block gaskets, then I should have everything I need except the lifters, which are coming next week.  Had an offer to rent the necessary tools for a very reasonable rate too, so I should be good to go.  I wish I had someone looking over my shoulder but screw it, I ain't skeered!

[lilchief]

You must've missed my post, I have the proper tools to LEND you, which is probably cheaper than renting them.

[ThumperDeuce]

Ok, thanks guys.  I'll pick up a new snap ring and oil pump o-ring tomorrow, as well as the lifter block gaskets, then I should have everything I need except the lifters, which are coming next week.  Had an offer to rent the necessary tools for a very reasonable rate too, so I should be good to go.  I wish I had someone looking over my shoulder but screw it, I ain't skeered!

[stro1965]

You must've missed my post, I have the proper tools to LEND you, which is probably cheaper than renting them.

Thanks!  Can I keep 'em when I'm done???  C'mon!

[stro1965]

Stro,
Well I usually don't lend my tools out, but since I know you, and I know where to find you, I have the proper tools that you can borrow. And, FWIW, I changed out my snap ring. Let me know when you're ready for the tools.

Lil' Chief

Wait... You know me and you're STILL willing to lend me tools?  I feel pretty special!

[lilchief]

Yes, I'll lend you the tools, no rental fee....but there is a deposit fee!!!!   

[05FLHTC]

Now that is a real time demonstration of what this forum is all about.

Dan pay attention, you old friggin jerkoff

[Soft 02]

Good idea to check run out if only to know what it is.

[runamuck]

I have done a couple cam changes on my bikes and used a blind bearing puller set I bought at harbor freight for 29$. just a couple taps and they pop right out..tap new ones in with wood dowel..

[DoubleZ]

I have done a couple cam changes on my bikes and used a blind bearing puller set I bought at harbor freight for 29$. just a couple taps and they pop right out..tap new ones in with wood dowel..

Ya I'd heard u really don't need the tools.  Rent a puller and u can tap in the new bearing in with a socket.  There's supposed to be a lip that prevents them from goin too far in.  Haven't done it yet but that's my plan.

[stro1965]

I have done a couple cam changes on my bikes and used a blind bearing puller set I bought at harbor freight for 29$. just a couple taps and they pop right out..tap new ones in with wood dowel..

Cool, I didn't realize they would tap in that easily.  Tough to get them started straight?

[les]

I don't know if it's difficult to get them started straight, but that's the point of using the tool.

Regardless of using a tool or tapping them in, I recommend really working in good some assembly lube in the new bearings before installing the new bearings.  The Torrington's have tight needles that can get cocked when installing.  They are very difficult to get un-cocked.  Working in assembly lube prior to installing greatly reduces the risk of them getting cocked.  You need to be able to turn the bearings with your finger after installation.

[stro1965]

I don't know if it's difficult to get them started straight, but that's the point of using the tool.

Regardless of using a tool or tapping them in, I recommend really working in good some assembly lube in the new bearings before installing the new bearings.  The Torrington's have tight needles that can get cocked when installing.  They are very difficult to get un-cocked.  Working in assembly lube prior to installing greatly reduces the risk of them getting cocked.  You need to be able to turn the bearings with your finger after installation.

Will do, I already picked up a tube of the Screamin Eagle assembly lube.

[stro1965]

Stupid question... You don't ant any lube on the outside of the bearing right?

[FSG]

Stupid question... You don't ant any lube on the outside of the bearing right?

Put a smear of assembly lube on the outside, it will aid the install.

While lots of folk have used blind pullers for removal and dowel/old cam/punch to knock them back in, I never would, although I have the tools so why would I.

Take lilchief up on his offer, you'll be glad you did, the install tool ensures the bearing goes in the correct depth.  There is no relying on the lip that prevents them from going too far in to stop it.  You break that lip off/out because you tapped with a hammer once too often and your going fishing to get the piece out.

New bearings come with a waxy protective coating on the needles, wash that off using brake clean and free the needles up before attempting to work assembly lube into them.

[ICANTD55]

Coyote!  Cut it out!  I just bought two tools tonight because of you.  I ain't reading any more of your posts, until I get some more money.

Good job Coyote,,, more tools I can borrow 

[runamuck]

it's always good to have the correct tools for the job, but can obviously make do if you dont have them..dont do any work of this nature without the manual tho..use proper torque values from manual and dont get in a hurry.