HarleyTechTalk

Technical Forums => Pan Head => Topic started by: AndyH on November 15, 2020, 05:51:21 PM

Title: Oil pump check ball/spring kit and seating tool question
Post by: AndyH on November 15, 2020, 05:51:21 PM
I have a '53 Pan head engine with an aftermarket oil pump.  I think it is V-Twin. I don't see any markings whatsoever on it.

In the meantime, I need to replace the check ball and spring.  Would it be reasonable to assume that any 1953 pan head check ball/spring kit will fit?  Are they universal?

Any recommendations on where I can get this kit and the tool that is used to reseat the housing that the ball rests in? 

Thank you.

 
Title: Re: Oil pump check ball/spring kit and seating tool question
Post by: Ohio HD on November 15, 2020, 06:03:40 PM
Book says FL models 41 to 55 are the same spring and ball. I have no idea as to what you have, just measure the ball bearing to see it's 0.375".

Use a push rod with a 3/8" ball end and valve lapping compound to clean the seat. Do not do it with the pump on the bike. Clean all of the lapping compound out before re assembling. 


Title: Re: Oil pump check ball/spring kit and seating tool question
Post by: AndyH on November 15, 2020, 06:53:17 PM
I remember seeing a tool that is inserted down into the seat and then hit lightly with a hammer.  What you described sounds like you're a saying to spin the rod between my hands so the ball end of the push rod and the valve lapping compound will create a new seat.

How difficult is it to reinstall the oil pump?  I thought I read that it can involve using shims that may have to be used between the pump and the engine case.  I also thought I read that you have to prime it with oil when you install it.

If the job is more involved than simply using new gaskets to reinstall and reconnecting the oil lines, would you know of a video link or written instructions/advice on reinstalling?

Thank you.
Title: Re: Oil pump check ball/spring kit and seating tool question
Post by: Ohio HD on November 15, 2020, 07:28:29 PM
There are not any shims to the oil pump, it just bolts to the motor case.

I would suggest you get a service manual that covers this year motor to familiarize yourself with it. You can screw up a lot of very old very hard to find parts by watching a video of someone who may not know what they're doing.
Title: Re: Oil pump check ball/spring kit and seating tool question
Post by: kd on November 15, 2020, 07:32:15 PM
The procedure should be clear in the FSM. We all used to do it regularly and in fact, in leu of regular new gaskets we used fresh  dollar bills. They were the same thickness and the silk woven into the paper made them very durable and reusable.   

I agree with Ohio saying to remove the pump, lap the set (being careful not to wobble with the tool) and get it surgically clean before reassembling.  The one thing about the "factory" service manual is they are very good at step by step. Stay away from the others.
Title: Re: Oil pump check ball/spring kit and seating tool question
Post by: Ohio HD on November 15, 2020, 07:34:41 PM
You can get an extra cap for the pump spring, drill it for the push rod, that keeps it centered.

Agree about the OEM manuals for the old motors. They are very step by step and detailed.
Title: Re: Oil pump check ball/spring kit and seating tool question
Post by: FSG on November 15, 2020, 07:39:53 PM
QuoteYou can get an extra cap for the pump spring, drill it for the push rod, that keeps it centered.

:up:
Title: Re: Oil pump check ball/spring kit and seating tool question
Post by: fleetmechanic on November 17, 2020, 12:32:51 PM
The worst part of oil pump reassembly is dealing with the two small woodruff keys on the drive shaft.  Very easy to dislodge the one closest to the engine case.  Use a little grease to keep the inner one from being pushed out by the gear if the slot on the gear misses the key. .