S&S Cycle Sidewinder 3 5/8 Big Bore Cylinders for 1936–1999 Big Twins - Manual (Page 26)

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S&S® big twin connecting rod information
S&S connecting rods are stronger than stock and most other types of rods because:
1. They have wider I-beams, heavier radiuses in critical areas and extra gusseting (Supremes only).
2. They are forged from 4140 chrome moly steel.
3. They are heat treated to harder specifications.
4. They are shot peened.
IMPORTANT NOTES
• Whenever clearancing is performed during any installation checks, follow recommended procedures only. Remove material only from specified
areas.
• Thoroughly inspect, debur and clean all parts before final assembly. Blow air through oil passageways to check for blockages.
• Read manufacturer’s instruction label before using solvents when cleaning and assembling parts.
• Any modification performed to S&S® rods other than those specified in these instructions voids any and all S&S warranties.
Failure to follow recommended clearancing procedures and to use recommended clearances may cause damage to rods and/or other
engine components.
• Unwarranted connecting rod clearancing may weaken a connecting rod possibly causing it to break. A broken connecting rod may
cause the engine to stop suddenly without warning during operation possibly causing loss of control of motorcycle and personal
injury to you or others.
• Some solvents, degreasers and other chemicals are harmful to skin, eyes and other body parts. Many items are flammable and
present a fire hazard. Read manufacturer’s instruction label for proper use. Use in well ventilated area and wear protective clothing
when using them to avoid personal injury.
• Compressed air are harmful to eyes and body. Wear protective goggles when using compressed air and always direct air stream away
from body parts such as hands and eyes and other people near you.
Flywheel Balance
All S&S rods, because of their beefier construction, weigh more than comparable stock types. Therefore, it is recommended to check and
rebalance the flywheels when replacing other rods with S&S types.
Flywheel and Crankcase Clearancing
Increased front to rear I-beam width and crankpin end bulk and gusseting means additional rod to flywheel and rod to crankcase clearancing.
Prior to final assembly and flywheel rebalancing each flywheel must be mocked up with mainshaft and rods to be used to check clearances.
Places to note for contact are:
1. Female rod crankpin end to mainshaft nut—.030" minimum clearance recommended.
2. Female rod crankpin end to inner flywheel rim—.060" clearance recommended.
3. Wristpin end to flywheel edge on both female and male rods—.060" clearance recommended. With the camside flywheel and rods
mocked up, install the assembly in the right crankcase half with pistons (less rings) and cylinders in place. Check for rod to crankcase and
cylinder spigot contact on both the front and rear of each cylinder. Sixty thousandths, .060", minimum is also recommended in all of these
areas.
NOTE: Whenever clearancing is performed during any of these checks, do not remove any material from the connecting rods as clearancing on the rods
may unnecessarily weaken them. Make adjustments to the point of contact on the mainshaft nut, flywheel rim, crankcase, cylinder spigot, etc..
CAUTION
WARNING