Some options on my pushrods on the 53

[Casaba]

Howdy,
I've adjusted these pushrods a few times trying to make sure it's right because she is a bit tickey. This engine has solid slugs and adjustable pushrods. I know the aluminum aren't held in high regard and that's fine. I want a new set with steel and I'm not sure who makes the best setup for this on my 53. The heads are mismatched apparently with a 48 rear and 50-54 front. The bike has run well but needed new corks on the tubes so I decided to take a look see and as you can see, it appears they have been flexing and rubbing in the tubes.

image.jpg

What say you on a good option for new pushrods?

[old.wrench]

casaba,
Since you are already running solids, have you considered getting rid of the adjustable pushrods and run adjustable tappets instead? Every now and then you hear about a problem with the adjusters on aluminum pushrods (although I've never had any problems with them), but you don't hear about those problems with adjustable tappets and solid aluminum pushrods. That's what I run and it's a simple and trouble-free setup.
If you want to stick with your current tappets, Vulcan Engineering makes adjustable steel pushrods for Panheads, and I believe S&S also makes an adjustable steel pushrod that matches up with the Panhead rocker arms. I haven't used either of them myself, but most of the Vulcan Engineering and S&S stuff is pretty good.

Geo.

Here is Vulcan:
http://vulcanworks.net/Adjustable-Pushr ... 17073.html

[Casaba]

Thanks, it's definitely an option at this point. Going to pull the blocks and see what all is really in there I think before I decide

Well maybe I am...they won't budge and I think someone previously used black permatex. I've tapped with a hammer and brass drift lightly to no avail. I'm really concerned about cracking on or damaging the case. Any thoughts?

[Bigincher]

Like 'casaba', I have used solid aluminum pushrods with adjustable tappets forever, with never any problems- on my pan/knuck hybrid.

[steve_wood]

If you decide to go with adjustable pushrods, you might consider looking at Comp Cams 9002-Kit. I have these on my '56. They're steel, with very robust adjusters. Nice.

[Casaba]

Thanks Steve, that's just what I was looking for rather than the adjustable tappets as this seems easier to adjust when needed.

I put it back together and rode it today until I can get the new pushrods as they aren't bad, just not making me all warm and fuzzy! My stock (or existing I should say) exhaust is somewhat quiet and I hear my valve train more than anything else so Im always wondering if it's too loud while I'm getting used to her. Maybe I just need louder pipes! Ha

[Huck]

If you decide to go with adjustable pushrods, you might consider looking at Comp Cams 9002-Kit. I have these on my '56. They're steel, with very robust adjusters. Nice.

Excellent, I'll be looking into these, I have the steel rods with the adjustable perch, I find them to be a complete PITA

[Bigincher]

Like 'casaba', I have used solid aluminum pushrods with adjustable tappets forever, with never any problems- on my pan/knuck hybrid.

Oops. I meant to say "like George". No matter..........

[58flh]

Casaba----I find the adj. steel P-rods a set & forget item.Once installed & you roll her over a few & keep checking your lash,when perfect -I dont touch them unless Its rollerwheel time & new corks.I have never had HYD. in my any of my bikes over the yrs.And my pan is very quiet up top.----Respectfully----Richie