S&S Cycle Sidewinder 3 5/8 Big Bore Cylinders for 1936–1999 Big Twins User Manual

Page 18

Insufficient clearance between piston and valves may cause them to contact each other during operation resulting in damage to piston
and valve train components.

L. If less than .060" clearance in any area exists, grind area until proper clearance is achieved.

Piston Installation

NOTES :

• All S&S Sidewinder Kits include forged pistons. These pistons do not have offset wristpins so they may be installed in either direction except for the

rear piston. Rear pistons have a piston to piston clearance notch machined into the front piston skirt. The rear piston must be installed so the notch
is toward the center of the engine.

• It is always important to know what piston type you have when ordering replacements or requesting information.

• See S&S Sidewinder piston information section on page 24

Improper installation of pistons may cause unwarranted stress, premature wear and/or contact with each other or other engine
components resulting in damage to them or other engine parts.

A. Read piston instruction sheet for installation details.

B. Piston with large cutout on one thrust face which provides piston to piston clearance is rear piston. Place cutout towards center of engine.

15. Final Assembly and Engine Installation

NOTE: Cleaning parts prior to and during assembly and keeping parts clean after final assembly are imperative to minimize contaminants that may

circulate in oil and shorten engine life. Many parts can be cleaned with soap and water first. Then, reclean all internal parts and gasket mating
surfaces using high quality solvent that does not leave any harmful residues. Be sure to read and follow manufacturer’s instruction label before
use. Use drills and compressed air to clean all oil passageways of dirt, filings, etc. whenever possible. During actual final assembly, recoat all
internal parts with high quality engine oil.

Manufacturing chips, dirt, and/or other contaminants circulating in engine oil may possibly damage engine components resulting in
shorter engine life and possible engine failure.

• 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 and particles dislodged by 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.

CAUTION

WARNING