Evolution Cam Removal

Mike has the top end of our 1988 Heritage Softail disassembled. He has also already removed the lifter blocks and lifters. Evolution cam removal is next and we see Mike get into the cam compartment, which is actually in the bottom end of this Evolution motor.

The timing cover must be removed first. Unlike the Twin Cam motor where the timing cover is only decorative, the timing cover of an Evolution motor actually has something behind it. The timing cover is secured with a pair of rivets. At this point, most Evo motors have already had their timing covers and/or timing cover hardware replaced. Replacement hardware is often allen or button head screws. Mike uses a ³⁄₈” drill bit to remove (only) the heads of the two rivets and removes the outer timing cover plate. Next, two phillips screws are removed in order to remove a steel plate and gasket.

Removal of the timing cover and gasket reveals the Evolution cam position sensor. Mike uses a screwdriver to remove the standoffs that retain the sensor, and the sensor is unplugged. Removing or pulling the sensor aside reveals the ignition rotor cup. A ⁵⁄₁₆” socket is used to remove the rotor cup. Mike removes the Evolution cam cover screws and uses a plastic mallet to break the cam cover loose.

It is common for the white, nylon, breather gear spacer to fall out of position and drop down. Keep an eye out for this. The spacer must be returned to the end of the breather gear upon reassembly.

The Evolution cam gear, pinion gear, and breather gear all have timing marks that need to be aligned. It is a good idea to verify that correct alignment was made previously. Mike removes & inspects the camshaft, breather gear, cam bearing, and cam cover bushing. If the nylon breather gear is excessively worn, it should be replaced. The Evolution cam bearing will be replaced, but should be inspected so that it can be verified that needle bearings are all present.

Mike reminds us that Evos & Shovels (and Pans & Knuckles) are gear-driven. This makes crankshaft runout very important. Mike demonstrates measuring runout of the pinion shaft.

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