Adjusting Pushrods On Harley Davidson Ironhead Sportster

Just picking up where I left off on my last video of the 76 Harley Davidson Ironhead Sportster Chopper where I had partially put together my top end. Namely the pistons, rings, cylinders, head and intake manifold.
Figured it would be a good idea to make a video on how to install your pushrods and pushrod tubes on an ironhead sportster. I'm sure you can use this same method on a shovelhead as well. It had been a long time since I had done this, so it was fun to recollect how to do this kinda thing.
I'm sure there might be someone out there who may need to know how to do this process as there was a time when I had to learn this the hard way. And on the other hand; being that I'm not a pro, I'm also sure there will be someone who could offer better advice than this that I could from too.
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[@charlesm3844]

I just bought my first ironhead. I'm gonna follow, The ironhead mechanics are a dying breed. The local Harley shop doesn't even want to touch it.

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Yeah, you've certainly got to be somewhat hands on to own one of these things.

[@pierrenadeau746]

Same here! All Harley mechanics won't touch it. To be honest, that gave me pride in my Ironhead. They can stick to their lazyboys on two wheels they call motorcycles ;-)

[@markhensley1589]

You did a professional job. Straight out of the book. The only thing I do different is I put all pushrods in, then kick engine thru a couple of times and recheck clearance, then put all 4 tubes on. But if you were sure as you went along - no problem. Remember when you do reconnect electrical to polorize the generator. "Flash A post of generator to +, battery pos post

[@thaddeushoward]

I just bought 1981 sportster I love they way the purest talk about them I had to have one.. I have 4 boys so didn't have alot of money to work with but was finally able to purchase one .. I m going to be watching everything u post on the ironhead .. I hope your there for me lol .. I'll be looking for posts .. thank u and Godspeed

[@thedewdster]

81 is last of the XLCR frame. Cool 3 year only racing design. Alot of specific hard to find parts for each year but you get to brag that you have a bastard child of a Sportster. I have a 79 kick only xlch. Last year of kickstart only with 141 made. It's gonna be a bitch for sure to ride regularly but bragging rights is cool too 😂 vintage Harley's are the epitome of cool. Be proud you own one 🤙

[@randombrandon1940]

Thank you for passing on your knowledge to future generations!

[@jeffholmes2861]

Just acquired my first 1984 Iron Project yesterday, Needs new engine cases (ordered today) because one gear ger-naded an hurt the cases really bad, and newly used trans that came with that's ready to go. Went through everything and see that I have a big electrical job ahead of me. This Iron has been well taken care of, an will be a show stopper when I get done. (we"re never done)

[@rs-nk8cf]

Early or late model? I acquired a late model basket case a few months ago and am building it

[@richardstewart1955]

In 1973-1975 I was unable to get those beautiful cork gaskets for the lifters. I had to salvage the best used ones I could find. It was a 1953 panhead and it didn't leak when I finished putting it back together.

[@jettechdonatkins]

I learned how to adjust lifters on my '76 sportster after while riding it,it started running on 1 cylinder.I was 20 and didn't know anything about my new Harley yet,but soon found out it had solid lifters and knowing about those from my muscle car that I had,it was a simple task! Thanks for this,brings back great memories!

[@SaddleTrampTV]

That's how I learned too. Lol

[@lucasblues1202]

I've got a 79 ironhead xlch that's been sitting, needs a lil tlc and watching your vids has helped me. Thank you sir.

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Glad to help, man.

[@James_P60]

I know this is a older video but it’s a good video, this is exactly how I did mine years ago and shovel is basically the same. 👍

[@michaelhaddan1965]

Righteous. Thanks brotherman. I'll be needing this info again when I reach this point in my '70 Ironhead restoration~~

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Glad to help!

[@dronecapture8791]

Thanks for this video 👍 great help I’ve just bought my first iron head! I’m sure your videos will be invaluable

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Glad to have helped!

[@skyking4501]

Loved this video. Best I’ve ever seen on the installation of push rods. The music was awesome!! I was grinning from ear to ear.

[@ronduff4325]

I've adjusted push rods a thousand times over the years and I watched anyway . You never know what you might learn . I've done my share of hydraulic lifters too.

[@FernandezCycles]

Just the no nonsense video I was lookin for! Thanks brother!

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Sure thing, man.

[@charlesmanning1851]

She is looking awesome brother! Can't wait to see her on the road.

[@dougschwarz6699]

Thanks, Professor Corey! You are very thorough and informative.

[@williamcook2354]

Hey brother I'm currently building an Ironhead 1000 xlch and that was a super informative video I really appreciate the time that you put into it I am now subscribed to your channel and I'm looking forward to your next video I hope it's about Ironhead

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Hey, glad to have helped, and thanks for coming along.

[@boomerguy9935]

Great video. Great music. Great shirt. You are a unique individual. Don't ever change. You make the world a better place.

[@--J--]

Just got a 75 ironhead. Learning alot from your videos. Thanks

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Right on

[@robertbecker804]

Nice work... dug the jazz!

[@davidk.3240]

I enjoy watching your videos their very helpful to me. Because I own a 1979 ironhead

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Glad to hear it

[@joeharley87]

I have to say thank you to you. I been getting a little lazy about my bikes. I have been watching you for a little while now, and you have got me back doing things on them. I am nowhere the mechanic you are but doing the things I can. Thank you for the relaxing and informative videos. I have a 1987 FLHS and a 1992 Sporty.

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Glad to help!

[@clintdenman3037]

Pretty funny because my best mate from my early years well his name is Mike but to this day still Tramp and he is a fitter and turner and his skills were amazing he still has his first Harley Davidson And it is a 1200 or 74 cube flatty and if you actually look back to the 80s it was in the Aussie version of live to ride it was a 1943 I think from memory and it was called Orphan Annie lol gotta love memories shared between the V.Twin lovers u know what I mean we weren't anything special just a few young men and women who had a love for the road not going anywhere fast but we knew it when we found it, my goodness i loved those years.

[@cancelchannel3394]

It's the little details that help the most, thank you for your patience in helping all of your viewers who want to wrench on their own bkies ")

[@irishguyjg_2ndchancerecovery]

I love your intro. Thanks for this Corey

[@thegreatders344]

Just bought my first harley last week. 82 ironhead. This video helps a lot, thanks!

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Great, man!

[@incognito4118]

You are keeping it interesting 😊 and the Jazz made it very relaxing to watch. Love your channel since almost two years... Thanks from Germany

[@BlackWhiskeyBlaze]

Love that intro. Mr SaddleTramp’s Neighborhood. Shoulda did a sweater and change of shoes before getting started.

[@BlackWhiskeyBlaze]

Holy shit, I said that before I even saw your shirt! Lol

[@SaddleTrampTV]

@@BlackWhiskeyBlaze I've been told that a few times.

[@darrenallo5595]

Looking good, I am anxious to see you on the road with the ironhead. You may not be classified as a so called professional but you are definitely without question a motorcycle mechanic with tons of more knowledge than me.

[@eddunn3427]

Thank you. I will get motivated and get my iron back on the road

[@paulhealey8221]

Good video tramp, I always enjoy your wrenching vids. Actually, I am currently making a iron head video of my own, I am really enjoying the process however the filming sure slows me down! But I hope folks enjoy it when it’s finished. I am glad your moving forward on your new build, it’s always interesting content to watch. Thanks for documenting it.

[@chrishoesing5455]

You never got your video done eh?

[@shenanigansofmannanan]

Like Yoda with a ponytail... thanks for the lesson, brother

[@vincentvelazquez6001]

I really appreciate this video Saddle, it reminds me l did the same thing on my 79 iron head, it was such a nice bike... Cheers and take care.

[@SUPPORTYOURSELF]

Just bought a 1982 XLH, thanks for these videos!! Keep them coming!

[@SaddleTrampTV]

I'll do my best. Thanks!

[@whatyoumakeofit6635]

I just picked up a 81 a few weeks ago. It always zeems like i end up with odd year stuff. Doesn't matter if its bikes, cars or trucks.

[@barkbook1440]

This saved me thank you! Trying to fix my husbands 1976 Ironhead while he’s on deployment

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Glad to help

[@DieselsHOGVlog]

I’ve built so many gas and Diesel engines from stock to super pro but never a motorcycle engine...it looks like a lot of fun...therapeutic maybe...like I said in Scouses live today, I think finding an old iron head up here to build is very unlikely. Can’t wait to see the end result of your efforts! ✌🏼

[@paulfosbery6026]

Excellent video! Its always nice seeing someone else being busy! I just wish someone would be busy and do some maintenance on my bike at the moment. I'm getting too old for crawling around on the ground these days! Interesting that Harley went from 4 separate gear-driven cams on the Sportsters to the single camshaft with 4 cams on the early Evo Motor...much simpler...until the dreaded; "Twin Cam" complicated things! ...LOL...! Take care, all...and be SAFE!

[@scottseibert7796]

Can’t wait !! It’s gonna be rad when it’s done !!!👍🏍

[@jkpoynter]

I know how to do a pushrod adjust, but this was a well made video. I really like your vids brother... Thank you!

[@randynewtonsr9659]

“ I love it when a plan comes together “ 👍

[@mountaindew8042]

That what oldlady are for ✌

[@kevinoverton6869]

That was a great wrenching video. I love to ser what the bike is shaping into.

[@kidmoto22]

You make this stuff look easy!

[@DeluxeChimp]

Excellent video Saddle Tramp! ✌😎

[@bryansanford]

Ironhead push rod/ tappet adjustment on cold engine. Adjust tappet at lowest position and when like tappet is at highest (valve fully open.) Inlet valves nearest carb.

[@lisar3006]

I just did my 72 FLH . You did it like I do if I recall two of the rods are shorter.

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Mine are all the same.

[@lisar3006]

@@SaddleTrampTV I couldn't recall it has been 30 years since I had them out I do adjust them but I don't ride my 72 like I did. I have an 02 FLSTC but I am looking for a good Evo. I just sold my 01 FLHRCI Road King. Not a fan of these twin cams.

[@RoadRashHD]

Looks a lot easier then i thought it would be

[@simonholley6256]

Always enjoy your vids,very educational. 👍

[@charlesturner5538]

Pretty simple great video

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Thanks 👍

[@jaredhatton1984]

exact same process we use to run the valves in a hurry on a sbc in the pits on race night

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Right on, man.

[@lisajohnson8566]

Nice video and fabulous music. I have a 77 Sportster that I am having an issue with front cylinder not firing regularly so the valves are where I'm headed today to make sure they are not too tight. Appreciate the advice.

[@jeffmorris739]

I can't even get the fuse box out of my bike. They don't want you to work on modern bikes and it's obvious if you try. Old school is sometimes better. Simple. Great video Tramp.

[@unokarpa4405]

удобная схема регулировки клапанов! нет необходимости снимать головки цилиндров, не надо сливать охлаждающую жидкость, не надо снимать бензобак )

[@Michael-lr1ic]

I've purchased my first 79 itonhead a fixer upper it runs but ruff I'm going through the sweating and cussing part of doing it myself your video helped me greatly my wife thanks you to .she dont hear me swearing as loud and as much thanks dude .my FAT BOY hasn't made me cuss YET knock on wood ...peace out

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Glad it helped out and that your Mrs is happy too.

[@KowboyUSA]

Excellent video, amigo. Sharing it with my Sporty riding brother.

[@engleharddinglefester4285]

Thanks! I don't know why this was so hard to understand before. I think a lot of guys give too much information when they describe how to do this. I thought it had something to do with the position of the pistons and you needed to look through the porthole to check the timing marks on the flywheel. But no!

[@Supermankev2001]

Nice Shirt LOL Looks like it fits. Loved it Man music choice was awesome instruction good Always like your content.

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Thank you so much for the shirt, Kev. And also for sticking around.

[@Supermankev2001]

SaddleTramp very good video

[@ANONYMOUSBIKERUSA]

Excellent job ! Learned a lot today !

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Thanks, man. You rock.

[@lukassellars3118]

Good job thanks for the help

[@eagleridge1972]

Great vid man, you explain stuff so well.

[@13foxcerv76]

thank you!

[@mikeashbaugh7773]

Like the tank

[@daves4yah]

Great instructional video Sir, I learned! Cheerz!

[@uuncensored]

Great info and video once again. And I love that shirt!

[@johnken8170]

Rocking shirt.!

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Thanks!!

[@panduwibisono7217]

Thank you man

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Sure thing!

[@JerseyNickMoto]

Love the Mr Rogers shirt lol

[@TonysGarage]

Well, that was a fantastic video!

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Thanks Tony!

[@WildOn2sVlog]

Looking good. Thanks

[@mikeshaffer2950]

Moving along,,, should you have rotated the motor a complete cycle an check lash play again? I have to do the same to my 78 Sportster here soon. Thank for the video. Still think a set true low slung pipes look good on bike.

[@streetwise10-73]

Amigo...well done. next time try just a thin layer of lube on the new cork gasket when installing, After you get the spring clip in the push rod tube and it goes "snap", rotate the tube (so it self centers) just a little to make sure its seated into the new cork.....Good job.... good video.

[@Mad1Mullen]

Thanks I was wondering if I could install pushrods with rocker covers on 🤘🏻

[@jaminr80]

Love your videos so helpful! I have a 77 sporty that I've been working on kind of a basket-case yet but working progress nonetheless.

[@theramblingsoflarry9290]

I don't own a old bike but would love to have one

[@crazyDIYguy]

So you want the pushrod tight so you can still spin it with no up and down play, (after you tighten the jam nut). I think I got it now. 👌🙏

[@dalespringerwilson4233]

Don't know if you know it or not, but the braided lines don't provide a lot of oil for the rockers / valves. Just a tip from quite a few iron Head knowledgeable people.

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Thanks for the heads up

[@chappy5694]

Very informative video! Thanks man!

[@ontrixurite2606]

thank you are really cool guy

[@hawgalligood7239]

Wow looking at your old Shop then look at your Monster Shop Now....going to need to put gps on ya while you're in the New Shop...lol

[@SaddleTrampTV]

I reckon so! lol

[@johnliotta2583]

Love ur vids. Not comercial at all. Praise Jesus!

[@zari63]

after change new o-ring pushrod still leak of oil whats I do wrong????

[@Saddletramp1200]

Good Job Son, I might have added some Teflon tape to the oil lines.

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Done

[@dryminnow677]

Soon to sea what it’s going to shape up to be like expected to be nice

[@getoffmygrass6974]

Perfect Tramp, looks textbook to me. I mean maybe a couple rotations but you probably did that off camera and re checked. I may have reminded noobs the difference between solid and hydraulic lifters and to make sure you bleed down if necessary.

[@albundy6804]

HEY AMIGO!!

[@maddog3080]

My first harley was a 74 sportster 1000 with right hand shift and kicker only. Always had trouble starting it when the engine was warm. Rode it to sturgis in 1990, about a 500 mile trip from home. Didn't dare shut it off to refuel because it wouldn't start warm. Ended up doing a compression test on it and lo and behold only 20 psi hot. Push rods were set too tight and when the engine warmed up they would hold the valves open ever so slightly. And with a kicker only you would kick that bitch 50 plus times to get it started. Adjusted the push rods and from then on it started first kick hot or cold. Suffered with a shitty starting sporty for damn near a year til I got that figured out. Wish I still had that bike

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Yep. Had that same experience with my old 79. That's why I said to make sure they freely spin and to do this only when the engine is cold, because metal expands when it gets hot.

[@boscodog4358]

Hey man good to see you again Great instructions. What is the brand name of your small scissor jack.

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Not sure. Some no name brand that I got from ebay.

[@docmyers5557]

Sorry, I meant adjustable push rods, and solid lifters.

[@FOCKTARD]

Good work. Plus, I really like your choice of background music.

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Thanks, Robert!

[@user-wn2em2vc4t]

So the first pushrod you did in the video has to be all the way down ok then the second one so the first pushrod don't move once it's all the way down

[@dannynoel993]

Hate those oil lines, I had a set, kept sticking my hand every time got near em. But I do like the cork o rings.

[@joelhusbandtoandreaproudof8916]

Thank you ! For the easy illustration, & quickness of it all. I have a 72 ironhead . i left the key on and now it runs like crap. Can it be points or magneto points? And timing. Or what?

[@TravisRummer]

Where'd you get the braided oil lines, I've never seen those before.

[@SaddleTrampTV]

It was an ebay item.

[@h2ocommander257]

Do I make sure evey cam is at the bottom by moving the motor and then adjust it. Or just the front one

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Yes... Every cam.

[@johannesmaier5351]

My Harley ironhead bevor Adjustig. Pitsch patsch vrom the carb. After Adjustig the pushrods the carb. Booom BANG. Manivold down .

[@jackmurtieta9843]

My name is Jack(joaquin murrieta ) and I have a ironhead slorster 1974 I'm slowly trying to bring back to life if bring back the dead is possible hopefully it will be a case r of reviving lol how ever it will be a while. most of its there moter transmission nothings wired up but the harness is there not familiar with this bike but it's old it looks re as ly basic as far as it's functions a key battery wiring altho IA a sporster it's apearence doesn't show it much to the ordinary Joe so here I am shaping it's appearance cleaned it up kinda hesitant on opening up anything but mo mater what I'm left with this bike will some day run a promise now is there anyway I can find out the moterss condition by opening something up I'm a very a uick Lerner n I won't get into anything t I'll I study and feel confident with dealing g with a specific issue I'm just as t wondering g it's been siting and it was given to me first cuz I love these bikes n 2nd it will run again I apologize gor the gibberish of my txt but to give u n idea wst I'm dealing with any thing u can give me as far as maybe a check list I can do by viewing thet state of this bike wish I can send detailed pics think that would be best I dint know get back with ur thots it's a challenge I find myself facing basket case for sure

[@ponyboy1664]

Any feedback on those braided oil lines? Are their internal diameters different from the rods and does this have any effect? Great instruction, thanks.

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Haven't got that far yet. Had a bit of a setback with the shop being destroyed in the storm.

[@ponyboy1664]

@@SaddleTrampTV Oh crap! Hope you get back to normal

[@rodneylewis1847]

Have a question or 2 maybe 3.. looking at an 81 ironhead sporty for a chopper project. I own bikes all metric this will be my 1st harley closest would be the xs. Want to ride not bar hop so weekend trips or longer how is the 4 speed with vibration vs a say 91 5 speed.

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Not much different. You'll run a higher rpm though while trying to do highway speeds than you would with a 5 speed.

[@TheOujibo]

Where did you get the steel beaded lines

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Ebay

[@artyberkhoff8878]

Next time if that pos runs long enough to need a valve adjustment try changing the lock nuts and a little oil on the push rod ends is mandatory.

[@SaddleTrampTV]

It's only a POS if the one riding it is too incompetent to maintain it. And the pushrods did get some oil on them. Not everything makes it onto the screen at times.

[@virgillejeune2139]

@@SaddleTrampTV I like that attitude.........I subscribed...your videos are great..yall take care