Harley 45 Engine Build

Text and Pictures by Mark Trotta

After engine teardown and cleaning, inspection included checking engine cases for cracks and broken edges, and looking for any stripped threads.

Read: Harley 45 Engine Teardown and Inspection

Two common problem areas on Harley 45 cases are where the gear cover and oil feed pump bolt on, and where the timing plug and drain plug are.

Read: Repair Stripped Threads In Aluminum

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Install Flywheel Assembly

Read: Harley 45 Bottom End Assembly

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Install Harley 45 Cams

Assemble Harley 45 Cylinders

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James Gasket motor gasket set fits 45 Flatheads from 1936 through 1973. It replaces OEM 17026-40.

Shop: Harley 45 Engine Gasket Set

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Harley 45 flatheads have two separate oil pumps, and each has a different function.

Oil Feed Pump

The "feed" pump (pictured above) is mounted to the right-side of the engine on the cam cover. It is a vane-style pump which is gravity-fed oil from the tank, then delivers it to the engine under pressure.

Oil Scavenger Pump

The lubrication cycle is completed by the "scavenger" oil pump. This is a gear-type pump, and mounts to the bottom of the right-side engine case with four studs and nuts. It's job is to return engine oil back to the oil tank.

Read: Harley 45 Scavenger Oil Pump Repair

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Related Articles:

Harley 45 Engine Teardown and Inspection

Repair Stripped Threads In Aluminum

Harley 45 Drivetrain

Harley 45 Frame Choices

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Harley 45 Engine Stand

I welded up a simple engine stand, which made working on the motor easier. It also gave me something to mount the dial indicator to check for crankshaft end play.

Read: DIY Harley Engine Stand

If you don't have a stand, you can lay the engine down on a couple of 4x4 wood blocks.