Just rec'd my kit from Jamie and been doing a ton of research waiting for it to come in and during the decision process. I've always done all my own wrenching, had my whole bike down to frame and motor and enough to black out the motor but never done and major motor work. My question is, for those who have done a big bore kit, cam swap, adj. pushrods, etc.... Are there any tips that you learned along the way on your own, aside from the FM videos? Or something that stood out as an important step/technique that may be overlooked? Feeling pretty confident but playing it safe too. Can't wait to see the gains, going from a 96". Already bought the Beatty puller/installer... BTW, he was great to deal with.

 

its not hard, just a jug/piston swap. pay attention to the directions and use youtube if you get lost.

oh, and get a ring compressor. doing it without one can be tedious

 

Is it really worth it? The videos make the popsicle stick method look so easy. Any recommendation on which one works best for this job or just any ol ring compressor? TIA

 

I snapped a ring trying to not use a compressor . It happens to the best of them . Sucks having to wait for the new rings though.

 

Take your time, make sure you have all parts & tools needed, review instructions, take your time.
A large expandable hose clamp can be used as a ring compressor... tricky but does the job.
Check the ring gap to cylinder wall
Check the weight of the new pistons vs old pistons. Larger pistons will be heavier but compare the difference between the two sets.
Lube everything that's metal to metal
Use new lifters with a new cam
Check oil pump for scoring
Replace as many old parts... gaskets & such as you can while its opened up

Just my opinion ....

 

Did you send your jugs to him or do an exchange? Did you have your heads done? Just wondering how long it took you to get your kit?

 

Keep it clean, clean, clean.

 

subscribed trying to decide whether to do it myself or take the ride to FM

 

Just finished putting together my kit. Tomorrow ill installed pipes ad start up. Popsicle stick method is the easiest way. Worst part of the build is the throttle body. Everything else is straightforward..

 

I just did my 106, make sure you have all new gaskets. I had to run to the dealer because I forgot one and didn't check before starting. The popsicle stick method was easy and fast I had no issues. Take your time, keep it clean and try to have fun with it. Think of the money your saving that you could put torwards something else by doing your own install.