COMPLETE ENGINE INSTALL

jug · Sep 30, 2015

Never fitted a commando engine as a complete unit before. Always fitted the head after the bottom end was in. Once I take possession of one of Kens 750 heads, I want to fit the engine as a unit. Anything I should be aware of, tricks, tips.
Cheers and thanks in advance.
JUG

toppy · Sep 30, 2015

I have only fitted complete engine twice but both times just lifted it in to frame from righthand side an got another person to side a bolt or suitable size screwdriver through rear cradle mounting hole. Then once rear bolts or studs are in pivot engine up a little as you have fun trying to get front mount in place. The bike was on a hydraulic table at accomfortable height and of course you own personal strength is a factor but am just average hight an build 45 year old man.

p400 · Sep 30, 2015

Here is a video of possible help, the audio and usual shakeyness are not too good, but the technique could be very valuable -
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8L42NIW0dj4

pete.v · Sep 30, 2015

Some people lay the motor in its side and lay the frame over it.
I hefted it in as p400 did. I found fitting the head with the motor out a little easier but I still had to deal with them damn pushrod staying in place as I snugged it down.

grandpaul · Sep 30, 2015

It's not hard.

It's easier if you don't have a bad back.

It's MUCH easier with two people.

The easiest is when it's two OTHER people, and you sip a refreshing beverage while supervising.

Craig · Sep 30, 2015

Hardest part is like everything else ... just getting started once stared you will figure out the proper way for you ... yes another set of hands help as long as they are quiet hands ... my 2cents ... have a good one ...
Craig

dennisgb · Sep 30, 2015

p400 said:
Here is a video of possible help, the audio and usual shakeyness are not too good, but the technique could be very valuable -
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8L42NIW0dj4

Awesome. I would use some cardboard and rags to keep from scratching everything...but still a simple way to get it in without lifting.

If you have a hoist or engine lift you could strap the engine on both sides of the frame and lift it in.

tpeever · Sep 30, 2015

jug said:
Never fitted a commando engine as a complete unit before. Always fitted the head after the bottom end was in. Once I take possession of one of Kens 750 heads, I want to fit the engine as a unit. Anything I should be aware of, tricks, tips.
Cheers and thanks in advance.
JUG

Laying engine on it's side and placing frame over it is the way to go!! Otherwise you will need more than one person and you will have to pad the frame to protect it.

jug · Oct 1, 2015

Thanks guys, all good advice

jug

milfordite · Oct 1, 2015

What I done lately is to leave off the front mount, straddle the frame and lift the engine in from the right side. Have someone slide in the topmost rear mount bolt, then simply pivot the engine back on that bolt and slide in the front mount. Sounds complicated, but is actually very easy . Have a jack under the trans .

grandpaul · Oct 1, 2015

Install the bottom rear mount bolt BEFORE you secure the front mount!!!

You can easily do this by tipping the whole affair back (easier if the rear tire is not yet installed).