Harleys Don't Tell Time and the Top End Shouldn't Tick

[@GixxerFoo]

Have you tried the Rocker Lockers and got the tick out of the top end?

[@taps_1021]

Rocker lockers paired with spectro 25w60 will silence the tick

[@64Goef]

Yep😀

[@barryashby7263]

Put them in my 87 electraglide , they work well , no more tick .

[@doug3805]

I’ve had a set of the USA originals in my garage but haven’t got around to installing them on my 93 Harley Heritage. It is noisy and it has a set of Jim’s HydroSolids in it also.

[@69Busa08Nova]

My 103 had a good tick when I bought it, I changed to Amsoil and it went away, I was surprised. (It had H-D Dino in it when I bought it). My Evo however, oil had little to no affect so I installed rocker lockers and it quieted it down significantly, It prompted me to buy rocker lockers for the Twinkie, but I haven’t installed them yet since it’s still quiet.

[@MAHGlie]

I’ve ridden Guzzi for over 30 years. I don’t even notice the tick on my HO 103 Road Glide Ultra. Perspective.

[@GixxerFoo]

I totally understand what you mean on the Italian bikes, it really is all a matter of perspective.

[@Kaptain13Gonzo]

Saves me the need for a stereo. The 'mechanical music' is part of why I love my Sporty.

[@scottarmstrong1172]

Great info. I also use Amsoil and don't have any noticeable ticks in my rockers. You could also install drag pipes. They may not eliminate the tick but you won't hear it any more.

[@GixxerFoo]

😄😄after a few weeks of riding with drag pipes you wouldn't have to worry about a lot of noises anymore.

[@MrMrdestmd]

Lol!!

[@garychandler4296]

Or conversation, cat purring, music...

[@r.weaver3769]

@@GixxerFoo Especially a nagging ol' lady...

[@pieceworkstudios]

Drag pipes work for an annoying mate noises as well 🤣. What's that honey? You want what? (Revs higher and smiles wider) 😁

[@WaxMeister]

I've done rocker-lockers on several of my twin cam bikes to varying degrees of effectiveness. While the 'tick' is clearly reduced in most application I've done, it is seldom completely eliminated but, it is definitely much better than without. I have actually also had success with experimenting with oils and oil flow, basically landed on two additional solution that almost completely eliminate the valve train noises when coupled with rocker-lockers upgrade - I always install the Axtell's Oil By-pass upgrade which doubles oil flow resulting in significant improved oil pressure and volume to the top of the heads In addition, I've landed on using Harley's SAE 60 non-synthetic oil. It's a special order but, it's now the only oil I have used for nearly a decade now.

[@petemathieson333]

Installed rocker lockers on my 03 electraglide standard with 79,000 miles. Made a huge difference to the top end tic. Much quieter ride now

[@brianseddon4749]

is this still holding up or did the tick return?

[@petemathieson333]

@@brianseddon4749 still holding up well with 85,000 on the clock now

[@markparadis5167]

I had rocker lockers installed 6 months ago, very little difference. Then my rocker support bracket snapped. Installing billet aluminum support brackets and roller rockers. I hope this gets rid of the ticking issue.

[@goldengoat9397]

I've owned my first harley for about a week and I'm a new rider and have been searching to see if this ticking was normal thanks for video man! The clip helped verify it as well thank you!

[@davidnanze8697]

Yes i installed them on my bike. took about 3 hours taking my time and letting the lifters bleed down before adjusting the push rods. Im happy with the results even 3 years later.

[@Cheaps928]

How do you let the lifters bleed? Do you know a video of where it shows it?

[@dt-5630]

This is a great video with much needed info. I am a new rider, bought a 95 Sportster XLH 883 and soon became worried about the tick. It got louder and louder after taking a leisurely ride. I changed the engine and primary oil using Mobil1 synthetic 20w50 thinking that would help... it did not. Then I learned from the previous owner he always used conventional oil... so, now I'm draining the syn and trying the conventional (Castrol Go 4T 20W50). I really hope this works, for some the ticking may be music to their ears (and I understand that) but it takes away from the joy and peace of mind running down the road for me. If this doesn't work, I guess I will invest in that Rocker Locker... thanks so much for making this video!!!

[@semperfipar1299]

Yes, when I first bought my Harley way back in 2001 I thought that Harleys just made that clickity clackitiy noise. Everyone said the same thing. Then at about 500 miles when the rings seated I changed out the oil to castrol syntec 20W50 car oil. I cranked up the bike and low and behold no upper engine noise. Could not hear a thing but smooth operation. Ran good multi-viscosity car oil ever since without a problem. Took it to the dealer one time and they even complimented on the sound of the engine and how smooth it sounded. They asked me how and I said "ancient Chinese secret". LOL! Multi-viscosity is the way to go for engines because it provides good thin oil lubrication on cold engines and you have practically instant oil pressure as thin oils pump way better than thick oils. If you like to run motorcycle oil AMSOIL, or extended performance Mobil.

[@BrassAmTV]

Had rocker lockers installed on my '91 XLH 883 Deluxe and I must say that ticks are gone. I may subjectively feel that the bike is running better, but most probably because my HD garage also changed all gaskets from bottom to top. Thanks for your videos anyway and always sharing good advice and experience.

[@carlbruhn1772]

Over the years I just quit letting it get to me. Tried the oil change up thing but then I felt line ke I became more critical of ticks. I just enjoy the ride.

[@GixxerFoo]

Lol it can make you paranoid if you let it get in your head, that's the number one question from new Harley owners is if that sound is normal.

[@carlbruhn1772]

@@GixxerFoo Hope they don't ask the dealer that. Everything is normal until it gets brought in on a flatbed. Then your wallet will have a tick.

[@duckman2667]

Thank you for all of the great information! I just purchased an 02 Ultra Classic with 39k on it. I purchased it because you gave me the confidence and the information I needed to make an informed decision. Thank you very much!!! Duckman

[@GixxerFoo]

Great to hear and congratulations on the new bike! I really appreciate it, that's exactly why I do this!

[@HogLife]

Thanks Gix,I know this video was made two years ago but this was a major help in 2023 with my 03 Heritage Softail Classic flstci top end knock,it may have been there for awhile and I haven’t heard it due to loud Screamin Eagle II’s pipes or having heavy metal playing on pandora,I’m gonna try Amsoil in her and see what it does,thanks for all your videos brother🤘🏻🤘🏻

[@dieselsoggydog6299]

I tried synthetic oils in several different motorcycles I've owed over the years, and everyone of them made more noise with synthetic (Amzoil was the worse) than running conventional oil. I'm currently using Spectro conventional Heavy Duty oil and works great.

[@bradballard2068]

This is a discussion we've been having here lately, I believe I'm going to put them on my bike this winter. Thanks for the upload enjoy your channel

[@GixxerFoo]

Thank you, I appreciate the support! They are worth it to quiet that motor down a bit, some bikes are worse than others with that tick.

[@hugieflhr03]

You are spot on and brutally honest, that’s why I watch!!!

[@GixxerFoo]

Thank you, I appreciate it! I love Harleys and ride them myself but I also want to put out there what's going on in these motors.

[@betruly7894]

I love and hate Harley. No other brand in the world can manage to occupy both place in a heart of a rider.😍😉

[@GixxerFoo]

That's exactly how I feel about my Harleys too!

[@fps636]

From 1966 till present and 6 Harley's later. Man! Spot on. Couldn't have said it better!

[@kerrylewis2581]

When I purchased my 2013 FLHTK new I thought it ran and rode horribly. Fast forward with the proper engine mods for my style of riding, Ohlins suspension front/rear and it's now the best motorcycle I've ever owned. Love it now but hated that it cost $5,000 to get it where it should have been from day one.

[@marcziegenbein7637]

Trying out different oil definitely helped my ticking noise, but from what I've read on the internet the rocker lockers are really beneficial when the rocker shaft groove is excessively worn down.

[@sonofabishop4449]

If you can hear your engine you need to turn up the music or turn up the throttle, lol. Freaking love Harleys.

[@Sam590ss]

I swapped the stock cams for Wood's TW6-H .590's. In my 88tc. I'm kicking myself for not adding rocker lockers when I had the valves done. But Amsoil definitely quieted things down. It also runs 25°-30° cooler now.

[@ronkuzyk3836]

A little known fact is the regular Dino oil from Harley is the best for quieting down the engine. It is specifically made (not by HD) for air cooled engines that see a lot of heat. Do not add any additives, there is already a unique additive package in the oil as specified by HD. It is only for the engine on your bike, so it is not compromised in anyway to be used for everything in general. Change oil every 5000 miles even for synthetics. Synthetic oil is still subjected to the combustion contaminates as Dino oil. Next best option is Diesel engine oil.

[@beri232]

My Indy pushes Torco dino oil.

[@leonardstanford1877]

I have installed several sets of rocker lockers & they work ! However if you have to remove the rocker arms be prepared for a hassle they are a pain to remove & you will probably have to buy another set to reinstall !

[@davidcook7816]

I own a 2020 FXST with the 107 M8. Bought it new and the engine was, to me, WAY to noisy mechanically. Went through the first oil change with HD Syn 3 20W50 oil as recommended. WAY to much noise for me. Sounded to me like piston slap. The next change I went to Mobil 1, 20W50 full synthetic oil. The improvement was unbelievable. The engine is now mechanically as quiet as any motorcycle I have ever owned. Won't use anything else.

[@Cherokee2005]

Are you able to use it in all compartments or just the engine??

[@allenperry2921]

@@Cherokee2005 The long haired guy on here says yes you can but uses gear oil in his tranny

[@CMFS101]

Great video! Zippers has PDF on how to check the tolerances in the rockers loose or worn tolerances can make the ticks worse. Rocker Lockers help tighten up the tolerance and certain oils can definitely help. I found that increased oil pressure in my Twin Cam, semi adjustable push rods adjusted correctly with the Woods Offset Rocker Box eliminated all my top end noise.

[@bolexmadnessbygilbertsolor6953]

I installed RLers on my ‘05 Dyna LowRider while I was changing the cam chest. I had noticed a tick/tick sound coming from the top end, but assumed it was usual valve train noise. The air cooled mills are noisy engines, this to be expected since there’s no water jackets and looser tolerances. While I had the top end off, I installed the RLers. When everything was buttoned up, the top end was much quieter. In short, RLers did work as promised and at $25, it was a bargain!

[@mmcclen9]

I have used RL's on three twin cams with no complaints. I run the Wood TW-6H cam in several bike and discovered the steep ramps cause the rocker arms to slide on the shaft when unloading. This results in the rocker arm hitting the support plate - making the ticking sound. HD is quite generous with the end play clearance., from about .005 to .020+ (just guessing, the shop manual is in the garage). I've used rocker arm shims for a shovelhead to reduce the end play to .010 or slightly less. This along with RL's has made the ticking tolerable . Measure the rocker arm end play with the valve fully open and under max side load. Place the shim on the non-load end of the rocker arm. I use .010 shims and so far no problems - 65K on the clock.

[@GixxerFoo]

Wood cams make power but like you mentioned the ramp angle are steep. Lol they can and usually do make the valve train noisy, which is to be expected and about the only complaint I've ever got about them.

[@Dixifrog]

Do you have a sample of the noise before you shimmed the rockers? I’m running Woods 999-6A and the motor is very noisy. It supposedly has rocker lockers installed when the work was done.

[@bernicemcclenahen4510]

@@Dixifrog I don't have noise samples, sorry. This fix I found on an HD forum I believe. The reason I believe it works is the manual calls for a 0.003 - 0.013 end clearance when new, and then goes on to say replace parts when its 0.025. That's a big gap. The TC push rods are angled slightly and push the rocker to one side or the other when opening the valve, thus end gap should be measured with the valve open - the side with gap is the non-load side of the rocker. Typically, I've found the gaps 0.015 or more, so I just add a 0.010 shovelhead shim on the non-load side to reduce the gap. Sometime the rocker support is a little tweeked when not torqued down and you need to fight it a bit to get the shim in. Once reinstalled and tightened down the end play should be rechecked. Atleast now I can hear the Reinhart's, and blame any ticking on the valves closing. Overall the job is not too hard, just a little time consuming - with taking measurements and readjusting the pushrods. Good luck.

[@Dixifrog]

Thanks for responding. I will take a look at the end play when it comes apart for new rocker box gaskets. Thanks for the heads up.

[@blockheadfxstc0428]

I'm running rocker lockers on my 91 Evo they took out a lot of the noise but not all of it, being a mechanic, I followed the recommended procedures, then on the rear cylinder I seen how I could speed up the process, I could see where the rocker arms were contacting the bolts as there were wear marks, in a nutshell I would recommend the lockers, they definitely made a difference

[@Stanyx01]

2004 SEEG @85k km, had a lifter failure, replaced the 4 OEM’s with S&S units and installed the rocker lockers. Very silent top-end now, most engine noise now originates from lower down the engine. Excellent product @ good price.

[@Stanyx01]

To be precise: I installed the "ROCKOUT Rocker Shaft Inserts" for $15.95 on eBay

[@jamesball2128]

I became aware of this annoying ticking on the top end of my 05 Night Train, so when I built my 95" on my custom, I installed the Rocker Lockers from the onset...man, what a difference! It sounds like a sewing machine!!!

[@firebearva]

My 2000 FLSTC had 50k on it (yeah a ticking time bomb), so when I did the teardown to put in hydraulic cam chain tensioners, and some other goodies in the old ride It wasn't a big deal to also change the breather assembly elements and put in a set of RL. They were a big improvement.

[@GixxerFoo]

Those hydraulic tensioner setups are the way to go on the 88!

[@crackerjack8115]

@@GixxerFoo gear driven cam's Is the ultimate mod

[@garychandler4296]

Definitely will do the next time the tops are off, but my odd experience was when I tried Amsoil and Mobile1 on my TC88, the valve train got WORSE. Went back to Valvoline conventional and she's a good bit quieter. I don't mind Dino blood because a) she was designed to run it and b) my motors NEVER see dirty oil. When it's caramel, it comes out, usually by 3k or earlier.

[@GixxerFoo]

Oil is cheap insurance for sure! You know I've had engines go both ways with dino and synthetic. To me it kinda goes back to no two engines are alike.

[@georgewetzel4380]

I noticed the same thing on my 99 Crown Vic. I use only Valvoline lubricants in all my vehicles.

[@garychandler4296]

@@georgewetzel4380 Done your research I see.

[@davidchereneimmel8820]

I use Valvoline VR1 straight 50 in my 06 Road King 67k miles

[@randymccalla9995]

I agree real oil works !!

[@rykerolaoghaire8781]

Greetings from Nova Scotia, Canada 🇨🇦 Thank you for all you do. Always great info!

[@GixxerFoo]

Thanks for watching!

[@outagas2008]

I just put the RL's on my twin cam. I pressed them in with a mandrel made on a lathe. Since the rocker box is a cast part the bolt bore is tapered from two directions and has casting flash in there. This flash collapsed the RL's. If you install as per instructions with the bolts and backing nut this will probably be avoided to a degree. I suspect that the bolt will be a PITA to remove if the casting flash collapses the RL. Also make sure that the RL's are about .06" below flush to accommodate the fillet between the shank and head of the bolt. It seems quieter now but i's hard to tell. Like you said these engines make noise everywhere. Mine had a wicked whine which was masking a lot of the tick. Incidentally the whine was from the worn out cam chain tensioners. I replaced those and now I can hear the valvetrain but it's nothing that alarming. I use the 20-50 SYN3 oil. I'm going to try the Amsoil next.

[@johnbryant7454]

You can shim the rocker arms also. Toward the push rods of course.

[@lpd1snipe]

That's what we used to do back in the day on shovelheads. There was a guy in California who made nice shims you could buy mail-order and I put a lot of them in over the years working on shovels. Harley-Davidson allowed .004 to .020 end play. That's a lot of slop if you ask me.

[@Jluck78]

I rode Japanese bikes for 30 years. A lot of them were air/oil cooled bikes like GSX-R’s and FJ’s and XS. I love air-cooled bikes they feel alive. I don’t find Harley Davidson’s to be excessively noisy, they make about as much noise as any air-cooled motor does. Remember the old air-cooled 911’s and Beetles they made a boat load of noise too. Most of it is normal and if it’s not normal well, everyone is an expert and they’ll be sure to let you know.

[@Bratman530]

I have to agree with the Amsoil statement.. For myself in northern cali. 100 degree days go for months. I currently run 60w. amsoil.. even in cooler weather,,, I have no complaints

[@GixxerFoo]

It worked for me, I was surprised and pretty happy I didn't have to anything more than change the oil.

[@monkeydink9933]

Toward the end, you highlighted that for only $25, you can take that noisy tick out of the top end. You said that's a great benefit, and it is. However, I would have also highlighted the fact that it relines everything inside a lot better than Factory and eliminates the uneven wear of the pushrods and roller assemblies and such. Otherwise, once again, you put out another awesome video with very helpful information. Thank you.

[@karmsenrab8587]

He said exactly that, apparently you missed it

[@kerrylewis2581]

Pushrod engines are noisy regardless but I'd think about installing them if I had the engine apart. The truth is while I love my Harley their tolerances are probably more than twice what they should. Have you ever heard a twin-cam engine that was built with proper specs? I have and it makes a huge difference.

[@GixxerFoo]

No doubt, you get a twin cam that's been rebuilt and toleranced correctly it's night and day.

[@Ulfstigandr]

Been watchin several of your vids. My heritage is gettin up there in miles. As soon as its paid off, im gunna start buildin the engine.

[@GixxerFoo]

Thank you for watching! What all do you have in mind on the Heritage?

[@Ulfstigandr]

@@GixxerFoo its a 96ci. Im still doin research, but leanin towards a 116ci stroke n poke and carb conversion. Got a feelin its either got a cam in it or an efi problem, but it idles like a carbed bike now.

[@hennryhill621]

Using the best oil and making sure it's clean will go a long way my bike has 250 thousand miles on it and I've never had to do a motor job on it she still run,s great

[@GixxerFoo]

That just goes to show what good maintenance will do for you!

[@timkilbourn5685]

New to the channel, so far these videos are great. That being said I have had a Honda Shadow that I fully restored and customized myself. A friend of mine can no longer ride due to cancer (that bastard!) but he sold me his HD. A ‘99 Ultra Classic. You are more right than you realize about all the ticks and what not. I first got it and drove it home and I thought I was in for a bit of work ahead of me. This is my first HD ticks and knocks galore! I took it to a HD shop and the tech took it out for a ride and came back and reassured me this is one heck of a good bike. Runs and sounds perfect for a HD. And it has over 80K on it. It just took me a bit to get accustomed to the new noises. But now the Shadow is in the corner all sad because it never gets looked at let alone ridden. 😁

[@lloydhorton4290]

Have rocker lockers easily installed took out some tick but not all. Love them. Be careful taking off rocker assembles they can bend if pressurized.

[@makato1955]

yup . Just removed valve cover. Then pulled rocker bolts . One at a time. Cylinder on base circle so no pressure on springs. Put sleeves in one at a time. And pressed them in with rockers still on head one bolt at a time. Then backed off all bolts and retorqued. Same gaskets and breather filter. Replace valve cover gasket and adjust pushrods. No more tick. In fact i can hear my fuel pump at idle.

[@iantaylor7840]

Just bought the parts to change the tensioner shoes etc on my twin cam. Thinking of changing the cams too, but have the rocker locks ready to go. Also oil try Royal Purple Synthetic 20/50. Good quality oil which is expensive but great. Another good video and I will come back to you later.

[@GixxerFoo]

If you're gonna have the cam chest open it makes sense to get some cams in there. Expensive up front doing it all at once but it's already tore down and you're right there. Expensive oil is cheap insurance in my book!

[@doug3805]

@@GixxerFoo There are good oils and then there are expensive oils that more than double the price but don’t give you any better protection. There are plenty of comparisons of the extremely expensive oils to the lesser expensive ones that prove it. If I was going to pay $12 to $15 a quart I’d just go with Amsoil.

[@iantaylor7840]

Hey guys thanks for the replies. For sure I am looking at cams but would appreciate a recommendation. Not looking for major league complicated; but got Mikuni HSR45 already so just want the engine to breath better and pull harder without any other work. Recommendations appreciated. Oil wise in the U.K. is Royal Purple full stop. Very few American oils available that are specialty. Peace bros, stay free. It’s getting harder.

[@chopperchopster]

ever heard of ROCK OIL? Its from the UK. Expensive but its worth it. I use it in my Honda CB750 FOUR SOHC. Its air cooled and runs just fine in the phx Heat. Havent tried it any of my HDs but I know it will work. Sold in pints of course since it from jolly ol england!

[@iantaylor7840]

@@chopperchopster Rock Oil is great stuff, my friend wouldn’t use anything else in his race Yamaha,s. Royal Purple is expensive especially over in the U.K. But they reckon it can reduce cylinder head temps by up to 20 degrees on evo and twin cams. I’ve already got the oil so might as well give it a try. Ride free bro.

[@thomasborger6548]

I used the Rockout Rocker Product bushings and they worked well. The gent even sent my kit out before receiving payment.(I had mailed a money order)

[@brianminkc]

EVO forever. My 883 EVO is pretty darn smooth. No ticks or knocks. You do hear a bit of valve noise on the high RPM, but it doesn't bother me much because the motor exhaust is so loud and sweet.

[@MidnightExpressMC]

Good breakdown, Gixxer! Also, let’s not forget that Harley also did away with the bronze bushings in 2011 not only on the cam plate but also on the con rods, right? I do not have a PhD in business, but I cannot imagine for even a minute that the reputational damage that all these “cost savings” have done to the company in no way makes up for the pennies or few dollars per unit “saved” when bean counters overrule engineering. In either case, it’s nothing short of a disgrace that they did it, and now continue to do it (M8). Then, they actually Beta Test the product ...in the marketplace, utilizing not their R&D money, but our money.

[@GixxerFoo]

I don't recall the bronze bushings going away but it wouldn't surprise me at all, I'll ask around about that though. When they started cutting that's really hurt the quality, sure they crank out motors and save money but it's not good for business.

[@MidnightExpressMC]

@@GixxerFoo I've read several Forum posts to that effect , where guys were scratching their heads wondering where the bushings were. It supposedly happened with the 2011's and on (Twin Cam).

[@sk8r4life92188]

Why has it taken me 2 years to see this video!? Pretty much gave up on my Evo Dyna. Thank you!

[@rogerbrahmsteadt7763]

Hey thanks I got my first Harley iron 1200 I got almost 17,000 miles on it now it's still pretty quiet thanks for the update have a good day

[@GixxerFoo]

Right on! I love that Iron 1200! They should of build that bike a long time ago, dang you have put some miles on it already!

[@ronhernandez9198]

Modern day chopper

[@evil_musclemuscled3814]

Go to an inline four for that annoying tick . As for Harley's I hear that mechanical noise . I don't treat my Harley's like crap . I do like AMS oil in my R1 . That's another bike I take care of but when it comes to putting that performance to the test that ams oil does it . Still smooth when changing the oil

[@octavioquilichini874]

Thank's for the enlightenment, your videos are much appreciated!!!

[@benzielke7149]

The vibration of the engines on most Harleys including mine is enough to loosen certain bolts over time. For me it's the ones that fasten the split tanks on the top by the neck. Had to put extra washers and spacers in there to stop the tanks from vibrating too much but now even with loctite they eventually come loose. Never ending.

[@davidchereneimmel8820]

That's not a tick... that music to my ears. I love that Harley music. It let's me know things are alive and working to haul my butt around. It's the sound or freedom, a sound of a Era that snowflakes are trying to take from us... Long live that Harley music!!

[@aaronbrown5252]

It's a good thing that Shovelheads aren't still around - all of these folks would be going insane!

[@joseph.papajoe5604]

Right on brother

[@patrickhollis5332]

Yea know rite but I’ve wondered about the lockers but if they design it to be loose so it could have room to expand I’ve wondered wouldn’t that be to tight yea it’s just the boxes but that was always my concern it would be to tight we spend time on trying to loosening up primary chains and try to tighten up parts of the motor but yea some r pretty loud of tick

[@yosefd6174]

Been under a rock, when showed oil lines coming from tank..I was like huh..no hoses..guess all know what I ride..old shovel and newer evo.. wonder if have for the shovel..but don't think I would hear the change anyway..ie shovel is 108 with 2 inch straight drags..and half deaf.

[@KickstandOptional]

Snowflake is when you take care of your Harley lol

[@waltercheeks5309]

I just ordered a set of Rocker Lockers. Since I'm finishing the install of an S&S Big Bore kit, I might as well fix the tick before I close up the top end.

[@josephslonaker2362]

i put those lockers in my 98 fatboy 80 evo and they were easy to install and work great but they to do wear out and the motor will start to tick again but those rockers pop right out specially if u keep the alingment tool Dk customs send with the locker kit.. I WILL PUT THEM IN EVERY HARLEY I WILL EVER OR WORK ON.. GREAT PRODUCT...

[@jimmorrison306]

My TC 96” had a tick. Bugged me. Eventually figured it was normal. Was time for an oil change and accidentally left with an M8 Softail. New bike too quiet.

[@GixxerFoo]

Lol those new M8's are pretty quiet!

[@jerrylong381]

I have a 2000 FLSTC that I bought with 11k miles on it. It had a little tick on the front cylinder. I wanted to replace the cam chain tensioners, regardless of wear, because 23 year old plastic. Since I was going to have it apart anyway, I checked the rocker shafts and they were not loose and showed no signs of being the culprit. IE they weren't loose, the bolts showed no witness marks from the shafts tapping them and the cutouts were not up against the bolts. I installed the rocker lockers anyway, just in case I missed something, and put the engine back together. I filled it with Amsoil. (I assume it had whatever the dealer uses in it, as it had just had a documented 3 hole change before I bought it.) The tick is now worse! I guess I will try a different brand of oil and see if that makes a difference, but I think I see lifters and adjustable pushrods in the near future. If I could afford it, I would put a gear drive cam kit in it,(pinion shaft is .002) along with the lifter kit and be done with the engineering shortcomings of my year twin cam (at least until the compensator needs replaced) but I'm an old guy on fixed income so all that will have to wait until I go back to work to stack up a little money next winter. Right now, summer is here and the road calls.

[@GixxerFoo]

Honestly a little ticking in top is pretty normal on these bikes, I am surprised Amsoil didn't quiet it down a little. I did have a Vrod that ticked a little bit on Amsoil, but that was improved from the Screamin Eagle oil in it.

[@laneh1968]

I had ticking from the heads on my carbureted 02 heritage Springer and determined that it was leaning out with the throttle cracked at cruising speed. After putting a sportster needle and a couple of washers under the needle it quietened it down and ran cooler.

[@milkpapayamango4641]

Best advice so far, it makes sense. Thank you.

[@wooddawg4868]

All of the pushrod bottom end cam engine issues have been fixed for good. The new revolution max engine has changed the way forward for Harley Davidson.

[@GixxerFoo]

The Revolution Max is going to push Harley into new market segments and I'm excited for it. I'll always keep my air cooled 45 but I am waiting for more of these new liquid cooled models to come out to see if there's anything I can't live without.

[@icofly5269]

You just explain in a clear way and give us lots alternative to solve. Thanks

[@yourselfdotcomlol]

Ive enjoyed alot of your content for awhile. You got a sub

[@GixxerFoo]

Welcome aboard and thank you for the sub! We really appreciate your support on the channel!

[@yourselfdotcomlol]

@@GixxerFoo no problem. I have a 2006 flhxi 88 twin so your content appeals to me greatly 👊

[@scrumthebum2451]

Good timing I just changed my oil, since it’s been very hot I put 2 quarts 25w60 spectro conventional & 1.5 qts S&S 20w50 full synthetic that I always run. Motor is quieter than new. I already have rocker lockers but you could still hear it but not as bad. Now very quiet 🤫 Forgot it’s a 2015 103 HO

[@GixxerFoo]

That's awesome! It's a great feeling to get that noise out of the top end!

[@terrywentz4629]

I recently installed a similar product called “Rock Out”. Same idea. Uses the brass shims like Rocker Locker. It took at least 1/2 of the top end “tick” out. I also switched to Amsoil, hoping that it would eliminate a bit more of the noise. So, bottom line, I still have some of the annoying tick, but now only in the 2,000-2,300 RPM range. So, still annoying, but MUCH better. I might investigate another brand of oil, but I do like the Amsoil product.

[@MegaCusco]

You can take care of the noise by shimming the rocker arms end play. I think the spec is .003 to .013" or so... If they have .010-.015 end play they will click. You can verify this with the rocker cover removed and push pull on the rockers in valve closed position. You will hear it click.

[@terrywentz4629]

@@MegaCusco Yes. After shimming the bolts I noticed there was still some end-play, but only on one rocker arm. I could still hear it click. So, I’m pretty sure you are right about the remaining noise. I’m not sure how to safely shim that end-play out. I don’t want to put something in there that will end up contaminating the whole engine. Have you done it before? I have even considered just buying a new rocker arm but might end up with more noise again and just end up chasing another problem.

[@nickparks7474]

Do you use the same oil for Tran motor and primary

[@terrywentz4629]

No. I have never used the same oil for all three holes. I have used Amsoil primarily. But, now I have BelRay in the trans and Spectro 25-60 (Dino) in the engine. The Spectro seems to quiet it down a bit, but still annoying.

[@greg1813]

I had a tick coming out of my rocker box that started mid trip. Tried to limp her home and died on the freeway. Is this a lifter issue?

[@fps636]

Thanks Gix! Made my day! My 1990 883 sounds like an old Ford 😬 up close.

[@GixxerFoo]

Perfectly normal but none the less annoying!

[@rafalopez9141]

Rocker lockers worked for me. Destroyed a few in the process of installing them. What also works is drilling and tapping, then installing a set screw to lock the rod.

[@GixxerFoo]

That's a really good idea, I've seen that done a time or two. Rocker Lockers can be a real pain to get straight when you press them in, I've had to use a couple myself in the past.

[@jiismo]

I just put a couple of drops of red loc-tite on the rocker shaft. Bolted it all down. Let it dry. can remove with heat if needed. $4.97

[@GixxerFoo]

Hey that works too!

[@busabobsgarage9876]

Thanks for your vids! The rocker lockers by themselves, did not cure the tick. In addition to the rotational slop on the rocker shaft, I also noticed a fair amount of lateral play. I'm wondering how much lateral play is acceptable on the rockers.

[@martinwall7297]

no noise from a Harley eng. you have a problem. there all noisy. what makes em quiet is correct. assembly. start at the flywheels, and work your way up. in my twin cams, I changed the chain drive cams to gears, a fueling kit 525 cam, with oil pump, lifters, pushrods, gaskets, and roller rockers, what a difference, expensive but worth it. as for my shovel truit & osborn flywheels and a complete rebuild..in any case, I 100% agree with you, oil, it's the eng's blood. I had an oil company silogram, Manny the owner blended me motorcycle oil 20-60wt, semi-syn, monster truck grave digger used their oil, Dyna race, Manny called their MC oil Dyna cycle, great oil. they Mfg. heavy lubes for the industry. ships, city buses, trucks, heavy equipment, all machinery. never used a better oil. you can also use STP in whatever oil you use, it's full of zink and moly. big difference, change the oil at 3-4000 mils, and your good to go. you do a great review and subject matter, keep 'em coming. TKS

[@docholiday1034]

They work for a while...20 k comes back. Been drilling and tapping for small allen to lock shaft.

[@Switchgear-jv9uz]

Tried the rocker locker kit on my 05. No luck. Engine runs great but still has top end tick. Just nature of the beast I guess.

[@brianszulwach5165]

Amsoil is definitely preferred, but hard to pass up Syn3 when an H-D dealer offers 15% off on oil change kits.

[@GixxerFoo]

Yeah it's hard to beat a good discount like that!

[@gdubbsmotolife9713]

I started using Red Line products about a year ago. Synthetic. Excellent performance. Especially the pink tranny fluid.

[@GixxerFoo]

Red Line is top of the lines hands down, better than Amsoil if you ask me. Expensive, but it's the highest quality synthetic available.

[@gdubbsmotolife9713]

​@GixxerFoo no ticks either with RL. Smooth and quiet. Other TC riders ask me how my 88 runs so smooth.

[@Hog-g2z]

Good morning 🌅,GixxerFoo, I think I have this issue too, though I not sure, I have been for ride today about 70 miles, the temperature was up in the 30s today, after I had done around 30 to 40 miles I started to hear a noise, So I pulled over could not really hear anything, but when I rev the engine a couple of times, I then started to hear a noise noise again, by the time I got back the oil temperature was around 110 on my dip , don’t know how accurate it is, Definitely got a noise I did think at one point it might be the compensator, can’t quite tell where the noises coming from, obviously riding the bike, Deuce dude France. Look forward to tomorrow night catch up with you then.,

[@GixxerFoo]

They all make the tick, supposed to be normal. Mine do it sometimes and other times they don't. Today's video is going to be a little different, a lot of overwhelming comments about the goings on at Harley.

[@Hog-g2z]

@@GixxerFoo okay, looking 👀 forward to seeing you later, France.

[@MONTEWOLF]

I have a 1967 XLH Sportster in old days I would ride it and it would make a lot of Lifter noise. I would stop at the bar for a beer and on the way home it would run very well. I called it a 6 pack Tune up

[@CarlGraber-kt7ps]

I use Johnson lifters in my last 6 Evos and 2 TCs and all ticking gone. I also use Castrol GTX 20w 50 car oil in all!

[@boomdawg56]

I have an 04 Ultra, I have adjusted the valves a dozen times in the 70K or so on the motor. Inspected rockers, lifters, changed pushrods, and can't make it go away. Why did Suzuki quit making the Cavalcade, or Yamaha quit making the Venture? I could be riding a nice 80something water cooled V-4 with gobs of torque without cooking my package in traffic, while listening to valves tick. My poor decisions never cease to amaze me.

[@kurtfirestone2761]

Just another thing that Harley is aware of but will not fix

[@GixxerFoo]

Basically, but fortunately we always have the aftermarket.

[@chopperchopster]

its not broken. My daily ride is an 09 Dyna Street Bob in a garage full of pans and shovels and other old things. That tick doesnt bother a bit. Only happens with my sled if its hot out . Winter time I never notice it. Doesnt bother me a bit when it ticks . I know its not a failure and the bike just keeps on ticking pun intended . Timex LOL.

[@mickc4633]

Yeah, I tried them. I have the woods TW-9-6 I sent my heads out to branch and O’Keefe. They did a really great job won’t fit a stock. They recommended those and I really good for one 110 , what is 10 to one compression I didn’t wanna go crazy with the compression it’s 120 foot pounds and the same torque. I put those rocker lockers in there didn’t help, but that is one noise engine really runs good. I have a big radio in my bike. but as you know, if you try to make too much power out of these, it takes dependability away. And I put a lot of miles on the highway 2 up and heavy it goes. They said it’s the overlap on the exhaust and intake. I don’t know damn good cams if you don’t mind the noise. The rocker lockers did not help this. I think the normal stuff. so any thoughts on this would be appreciated. I know you’re a big wood guy. I didn’t put roller rocker arms so it’s not hitting the rocker cover. But it’s just a front cylinder isn’t hurting anything. I don’t think it just pretty noisy, but it’s a twin cam.

[@PAULY-P]

I just did the cheap old trick. I use Marvel Mystery Oil and the ticks are about 75% gone. Lubes and cleans the top end better than Seafoam from my experience. Seafoam works better for compression.

[@GixxerFoo]

Marvel is one hell of a product, I been using that stuff forever myself too. Lol I was using the old metal cans of it my dad still had when I was a kid in my dirt bikes.

[@rodmyers5691]

I run the MMO in the gas for my Model A, you two adding some to the oil.

[@hd-j9958]

Mine squeaks from the top end. Hasn’t hurt the reliability but it’s been driving me nuts! I’m hoping doing the stage 2 will fix that!

[@GixxerFoo]

Check out those rocker lockers, most top end noise is just that.

[@hd-j9958]

@@GixxerFoo Thank you sir! I will look into it! Gotta save my pennies for cams, bearings, cam plate, rocker lockers, and get it all done at once!

[@terrywentz4629]

I added a similar product called Rockout. They eliminated about 1/2 of the tick. So, the top end is quieter but still annoying.

[@HogLife]

Amsoil took care of my top end knock as soon as I took her out for a ride after the oil change,there is not another oil I will ever put in her,this stuff was amazing

[@bobbrown3463]

They do help but at the same time I swapped my rocker plates out for some cnc billet pieces.. bout 250-300 bucks but a huge difference (replaced rocker plates because I broke one coming home from work)

[@tommyarnold890]

Have you ever or would you ever use an additive, like Lucas, to thicken oil on a motorcycle? Or is that one of the NEVER do this thing?

[@GixxerFoo]

I've added a little Lucas from time to time on some older motors that have a lot of miles on them. It really helps to quiet the motor down when they've down the road a time or ten.

[@harleyhawk7959]

my bike is a O5, just had the motor rebuilt to a 103. harley first said oil changes every 5,000. they have since up dated the t.c's to every 2,500 mile oil changes. I used synthetic since I bought my bike new. after my motor rebuild I now use bel-ray mineral oil.

[@robertdzink5425]

Thanks great video!! But I have roller rockers!! 86 FXSTC Nothing really left on original Harley motor built 3 times just balanced crankcase wheels & piston connecting rods!! Redshift hand ground cam too many things to list, but what a screaming banshee of a motor!! Last build fall of 21, that's it last me till I'm gone!!!😊 9:26

[@corad21]

I have the kit need to install it, while you have the rocker covers off and installing the lockers, should Iswap the stock rockers with roller rockers I have a 2006 Springer Twin Cam 88 unless it has rollers from the factory?

[@GixxerFoo]

It won't have rollers from the factory but you won't need to install roller rockers unless you just really want to.

[@kct9967]

Mobile 1 is my go to oil, it's available everywhere, and a great oil!

[@readtheinstructions1407]

Yep, got it, very annoying. It seems worse after I shut the bike off, and then start it right back up without letting cool down. I found this product to be the answer to my problem. Need to make the purchase, and soon.

[@goodboyringo9716]

I have the rocker lockers and they didn't stop the ticking. I changed the lifters, added adjustable push rods, Hy cam plate, new cams and still have the tick. At different speeds the ticking will stop say like 40 the tick stops but 43 or more it comes back.

[@GixxerFoo]

There will always be some valve train noise just due to the mechanical nature of the motors. Have you tried switching brands of oil? It sounds sounds dumb but all engines are different. I've seen Amsoil stop ticking in one bike and not in another. Same thing with Screamin Eagle and Mobil 1.

[@goodboyringo9716]

@@GixxerFoo ... Yes I tried Amsoil, Harely oil and now I just run Mobil 1. I think if the rocker arms were changed to rollers the ticking would stop but I'm not putting big money into them.

[@longrider188]

You forgot one of the most important ways of protecting the topend: Don't drop the idle below 1000 rpm. You simply will not find a high mileage harley that a top end intact that's lived it's whole life with that barely running loping idle.

[@GixxerFoo]

That's an excellent point, they sound good idled down but it's not worth the risk.

[@lonesometinman3147]

Solid lifters on all my shovels Damn they're noisy, but....

[@GixxerFoo]

But... they just work and they don't care about they noise make.

[@johngaulding3710]

Cannot comment on the newer engines, but I can attest to the earlier engines had cold rolled steel, bronze coated, rocket arm bushings. Replaced with solid bronze bushings and never heard the tics again.

[@mikelivingston6157]

I don’t know if I waited too long or what but I installed rocker lockers on my sporty and they just fell down the bolt and into the motor because the holes were worn

[@t.t.kelsey7132]

RIGHT ON brotherman .

[@fernominal]

I'm just wondering, how long rocker lockers will last? I've heard in some engines, that the rocker lockers came apart after a while. (Back in the old days, we would get rid of ticks, by burning their but with a cigarette!!..lol..!!) Back to the real problem; I ordered some rocker shafts from S&S, a couple of years ago, but haven't installed them yet due to my Sportster is my only ride! I'm 64yo and don't have a garage or time lately to tear down my ride. But I've been wanting to install the S&S rocker shafts, and also get some S&S lifters, to see if they would quiet that tick down once and for all! You always post great videos! Thank you!

[@GixxerFoo]

I've see them quiet it down a bit but Harley's are just pure mechanical. I believe with the S&S parts they did work out that factory defect.

[@dgoetz7202]

My dude! Thank you for this! 🤙🏻

[@greghedrick1775]

I love to read these old stories. If Don't tick you forgot to push the start button