Harley Adjustable Pushrod Installation

QuestionI am trying to adjust my front pushrod only because of a leak, I used the silver gasket silicone that worked without pulling my tappet block now I found it to be too loose and need to readjust it for the leak down which I didn’t dot the first time, now the adjustment nut’s are really tight. I’m hoping I can get them loose and add 4 turns down and wait then back 4 turns plus one more, enough to spin , the rear piston is at tdc, will I succeed ? or will a valve get bent ???
Thanks – Frank C

Answer Frank, Harley adjustable pushrod installation needs to follow the explicit instructions on how to adjust properly. If you know what your pushrods are, we suggest going on the internet and reading the manufacturers instructions. Usually when you adjust pushrods with hydraulic lifters you start by removing your spark plugs. Put the m/c in 5th or 6th gear. Turn your motor, by hand, and position the lifter you are adjusting to its lowest point of travel on the cam. Next, extend your adjustable pushrod until you have zero lash (adjust by hand until you pushrod is seated, but without collapsing the lifter). Next, (depending on the manufacturers instructions) you may be instructed to extend the pushrod another 2 1/2 to, maybe, 3 full turns. Now, you will have to wait for the lifter to bleed down. This will usually take at least 10 minutes per lifter when you are using lifters that have been in service. Do not try to turn motor until you can physically spin your adjusted pushrod with your fingers. If you do not wait for the lifter to bleed down, you risk bending a valve. We demonstrate how to adjust pushrods on our Andrews Cam Install Video. Check it out if you can. A visual may be helpful.

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7 Responses to “Harley Adjustable Pushrod Installation”

  1. Steven Harvey

    Hi there, I'm rebuilding my 99 Softail engine and what I want to know is as I built my engine 'dry' just using assembly lube, how do I adjust the pushrods (Andrews) as there is no bleed down in the tappets? thanks

  2. Steve Huffaker

    Hello, I'm doing a new cam install in my Milwaukee 8 and will be cutting the stock pushrods. I am going to use S&S adjustable pushrods. Before I get into this project, I wanted to know if I can reuse the stock pushrod covers or do I need to find aftermarket covers? One other quick question, I am installing a torque cam from S&S (465 cam), do you think the stock lifters are okay for this application or do you recommend I replace the lifters with S&S hydraulic lifters?

  3. Michael L. Carter

    I have a 99 evo engine and the push rods are loose how would i tighten them

  4. Ron Kautz

    How do I adjust pushrods on a 1991 Ultra Evo

  5. VALERIE

    I took my pushrode covers off with a screwdriver. Turned the adjustable Rod's to see if they're too loose. 3 out of the 4 move with ease but the front inner one is really tight and will not spin by hand. Do I loosen it so it does turn like the rest?

  6. Dave

    Can you tell me how to readjust already installed screamin eagle pushrods. Thank you

  7. Larry

    I'm trying to adjust my push rods I get them at zero lash and then tighten them up three turns and the engine just spins over free as could be