UPDATE: It's getting closer to completion. (Need some manpower)

[John Schmidt]

This evening I got this PITA installed using zip ties to pull the tubing in and a ratchet strap to pull it down and hold into position. That leaves me with two hands free to make certain the intakes aren't doubled back into any of the carbs, and then to fasten them in place with the hose clamps. I have a couple wires left down in front to hook up...neutral & temp. I'll mount the exhaust in the next day or so, depending on how the joints are feeling since it means getting down on that soft cement floor and laying on my side.   Once mounted I'll be working with the truck stacks, once done it's time for the smoke test.




Minor update: Although not a major issue, it is one nonetheless; the wiring underneath the front of the motor. This motor came with a harness that indicates each gear which is kinda nice, however I'll have to find an addon gear indicator to mount somewhere if I want to take advantage of that feature. I've ID'd the neutral wire so will be able to isolate it for normal function if I decide against using the entire feature.  The other issue is the temp sensor, the existing lead is too short to reach down that far so looks like I'll cut into the wire and add a few inches. It will be further up the lead from the attached end, done so I can retain the connector.

Now for the main problem...exhaust. I have both sides ready to install(will add the truck stacks afterward) and tonight I was laying on the floor trying to lift one into place so as to bolt it in place. Well, I couldn't do it. Trying to lay on my side and lift that looong exhaust into place working at arm's length was just too much. It's not that heavy, I can curl more than double the weight but it's the fact I'm down there working at arm's length. Taking them off...no problem, you're not lifting anything. Tomorrow I'll see if I can work my bike lift in from the opposite side to help raise it, tonight I found that old law of physics to be true...two solid objects can't occupy the same space at the same time; me and the jack! I did take a few minutes to knock off any high spots on the muffler that might create a problem when I try to slip the stacks in place. I'm getting anxious.  

UPDATE: Truck Stacks installed. I like the look however the right side exhaust was a real pain to install but I got it done. The right side looks longer in the picture but isn't, must be the angle I took the shot.

[Jess from VA]

it means getting down on that soft cement floor and laying on my side.

John, I keep a pair of small soft pile carpets rolled up in my bike shed just for that purpose.

Using the lift and sitting on a rolling mechanics stool also works, but sometimes I just don't feel like futzing with the lift (and jack stands). 

[Thunderbolt]

I remember that job well John.  At one time having three Valkyrie's and carb cleaning seemed to be a never ending task.  Getting all the intake boots on at the same time was always fun.

[Valkorado]

 

[flsix]

John watch you don't knock and of the high spots off you knuckles.....or anything else.....while tackling that exhaust.

[John Schmidt]

John watch you don't knock and of the high spots off you knuckles.....or anything else.....while tackling that exhaust.

Hey Jeff, no worries. I have the left side done, the right side stack is installed on the exhaust but not mounted yet...later today maybe. The left side I first mounted the exhaust then drove the stack on using a 4x4 against the end and a heavy hammer banging against it. A lot of time and effort with that method. So late yesterday after prepping the right side stack, I decided to use the pile driver method. Sprayed the muffler with some Dawn dish soap to lube it, got it started into the stack while it was laying down across and padded chair, then after laying down a couple layers of rubber mats to bounce the end of the stack on, I lifted the whole unit vertically and brought the exit end of the stack down hard on the mats. It drove the the stack on nearly half way. Another 4-5 smacks and it was on. By then it was 8:00pm, Nancy was at a concert in the park with some lady friends, I was tired and decided enough for one day. I'll post of picture of the installation once done. Best I can tell, all that's left is the shifter to be installed now that the left side exhaust is done, and two wiring issues to address...then time for the smoke test.

[TJ]