Starting up the Rebuilt Dragon Motor

Published on February 1, 2022
Duration: 9:39

This guide details the process of setting ignition timing on a rebuilt V-twin motorcycle engine using points ignition. It covers specific adjustments for points gap, circuit breaker rotation, and locking the plate. The speaker, with over 55 years of experience, emphasizes the reliability of points ignition over electronic alternatives for roadside repairs.

Quick Summary

Setting ignition timing on a V-twin motorcycle with points involves gapping the points to 18 thousandths of an inch and rotating the circuit breaker until the points just start to open at the correct flywheel timing mark. Verifying the engine's 360-degree rotation via pushrod movement is essential. Mismatched breather gears, incorrect bushings, and improper lifter adjustment are common assembly mistakes to avoid.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Motor Startup
  2. 00:30Head Torque & Bolt Specs
  3. 00:57Engine Build Details: Stroke & Flywheels
  4. 01:18Compression & Piston Weight
  5. 02:00Bearings & Valve Train Components
  6. 02:26Breather Gears & Case Alignment
  7. 02:57Valve Seats & Guides
  8. 03:10Oil Recommendations for V-Twins
  9. 03:35Connecting Rods & Crank Pins
  10. 03:49Cam Cover Bushing Mismatches
  11. 04:05Points vs. Electronic Ignition
  12. 04:28Setting Points & Ignition Timing
  13. 05:47Flywheel Timing & Pushrod Check
  14. 06:27Spark Plug Specs & Gapping
  15. 06:44Camshaft Selection for Street Bikes
  16. 07:23Oil Pump Installation & Case Drilling
  17. 07:59Hydraulic Lifter Adjustment
  18. 09:13Expert's Experience & Contact Info

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key considerations when setting ignition timing on a V-twin motorcycle with points?

Setting ignition timing involves ensuring the points are gapped correctly (e.g., 18 thousandths of an inch) and then rotating the circuit breaker until the points just begin to open at the specified flywheel timing mark (e.g., 7/16" before TDC). It's crucial to verify the engine's 360-degree rotation with pushrod movement.

What common mistakes can lead to engine failure during a V-twin motorcycle rebuild?

Common mistakes include mismatched breather gears causing oil backup, using the wrong cam cover bushing for side-oiler vs. straight-oiler systems, failing to drill the oil pump case for pressure relief, and incorrect hydraulic lifter orientation or adjustment, all of which can lead to catastrophic engine failure.

What type of oil is recommended for older V-twin engines like Shovelheads and Panheads?

Straight-weight oil is recommended for these engines. Specifically, 70-weight oil for summer, 60-weight for spring and fall, and 50-weight for winter. Using multi-viscosity oils is discouraged as they thin out too much when the engine heats up.

Why does the speaker prefer points ignition over electronic ignition for V-twin motorcycles?

The speaker prefers points ignition for its reliability and ease of repair in the field. If points fail, they can be replaced with readily available parts anywhere. Electronic ignition systems, however, can fail with a 'magic box' that requires walking home if it burns out.

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