Is there a way to remove the threaded insert (if it does come out) on the early rocker shafts so I can install it on a later rocker shaft so I can still use the early slotted end cap?
17448-57 is the slotted end cap. They thread into the ends of the rocker shafts. '66 to '84 all the rocker shafts are the same.
[attach=0]
Actually the slotted end caps screw into what looks like a threaded insert. Kind of how they did it with the evo breather holes in the heads in 92 when they were set up for head breathers but still used the bottom tube. The threads on the slotted end caps are smaller on the rocker shafts from 66-70. In 71 when they went to the allen style end cap they increased the size of the threads on the end cap so the late and early stuff doesn't interchange as far as the end caps go. I figured it out and solved the problem by purchasing this:
SPECIAL ROCKER SHAFT END PLUG & NUT KIT
Nice reproduction of rocker shaft end caps
Cad plated SPECIAL early style slotted head and late style 1/2-20 threads
Fits: 1957-1970 Harley Sportster and Shovelhead with late style Rocker Shaft
Colony Stock # 2020-8
:idunno: Can't say I've seen what you're describing. OEM 17448-57 is the same thing as Colony 2020-8. They thread into the end of the rocker shaft. These are just the later model hex instead of the slotted end.
[attach=0,msg1313913]
[attach=1,msg1313913]
[attach=2,msg1313913]
[attach=3,msg1313913]
(https://i.imgur.com/Ry3iBc1.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/b9DSmzL.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ERheY6G.jpg)