68 FLH Top End On A Budget – 50 Mile Run
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After getting everything put back together, I did a small 10 mile run for a heat-cycle. 
This gave me a chance to check for leaks and what-not’s. The next day I took it out for a good 50 mile run. Half of this run was stop and go city traffic, top speed was around 45-50 mph.
I am wondering about the break-in procedure with the new Hastings piston rings, after finding this post on a forum:
Hastings piston rings are pre – lapped at the factory and really should not need any break in.
I am still following the manual for the normal break-in procedure.
After the 50 mile run and the cool down, I followed the Shovelhead headbolt torque sequence recommendation posted by fellow blogger, St. Lee over on his blog Knucklehead Theology.
This is the only headbolt torque sequence pattern I have ever seen, and it makes a lot of sense if you think about it.
I printed this out and used it when I installed the heads on the re-build. I laid it right up on the seat post so I could see it with easy reference to the motor.
I will be using it again at the 500 mile service.
I am still adding up the receipts, but it looks like I am coming in under $700 bucks.
You can click on the pic’s for a larger view.
Ride Safe.
Looks good. The only thing I would add is also lube the underside of the bolt head were the “washer surface” contacts the cylinder head. Makes for a smoother torque with no metal-to-metal contact. Enjoy the “new” ride.
Comment by WILLY D. — September 1, 2009 @ 8:53 am
WILLY D.,
That’s a great tip there, I never thought of it. It is little tips like these, that are not in the manual, that add up to a great “solid” build.
Thanks for stopping by.
Comment by Electra Glide In Blue my68flh.com — September 1, 2009 @ 11:34 am
What do you have to lose by breaking in the thing the way you normally would? I think you are wise just sticking with your plan.
Once again I learned something here…not like that is a hard thing to do for a guy like me, but the truth none the less. Thanks.
Comment by FLHX_Dave roadgritscafe.blogspot.com — September 1, 2009 @ 1:43 pm
Followed this from start to finish…there is nothing that matches having a forum like this where you guys who know…teach the clueless…and help each other with small tidbits of information like the washer….
All things learned and put away for future reference….
Comment by Chessie chessiestales.blogspot.com — September 2, 2009 @ 1:05 am