Panhead Manifold Head inserts

[Tom Barlett]

Is there a recommended thread sealer for the inserts?I've tighten up inserts but still have slight leak around threads when I test with air and soap.Also is there any tricks to removing inserts beside using a punch and hammer?Any suggestions on fixing this air leak?Thanks Tom

[Chris Haynes]

Is there a recommended thread sealer for the inserts?I've tighten up inserts but still have slight leak around threads when I test with air and soap.Also is there any tricks to removing inserts beside using a punch and hammer?Any suggestions on fixing this air leak?Thanks Tom

By putting an old packing nut in a lathe and shorten it. Then place a cut down piece of the brass packing on the insert and screw the cut down nut on tight. Now that it is tight on the insert back it out.

[flat-happy]

it will seal with hylomar available at the harley dealership nearest you

[koanes]

It is nearly impossible to turn the inserts out without ruining the threads. There is a burr where the rivet was and it will peal the threads in the head right out. You need to carefully cut through the insert and collapse it. The sealing surface is not the threads, but the back of the nipple to the head, so the threads need to be good enough to allow the nipple to pull up tight to the head.

[T. Cotten]

Tom!

Please review http://virtualindian.org/11techleaktest.html for notes on insert removal as well as re-installation.
Seal-Lock "Fluid-Weld" http://www.silver-seal.com/ is still the preferred sealer, athough success still takes great care.

Good luck, as nipple replacement is probably the most trying of all operations in vintage motorcycle repair.

....Cotten

[Tom Barlett]

maniflod inserts

Thanks for the great info.Is there anyone that does this?I'm a little skeptical of me removing the manifold inserts.Thanks Tom