Hitchcocks Forum

Am the owner of a 2002 350 and am updating to the higher output oil pump. It appears that the bike has sa neoprene quill bushing. Would you recommend that I replace this with the old cork style? If so, how do I get the neopene one out? The reason I am upgrading the oil pump is that the top end burned up on me. I am replacing the cylinder, piston and have replaced both valves and seats. Don'y know why the top end fried, but the oil pump seemed a possible cause.

sorry about the typos - posted this prior to my morning coffee.

The neoprene seal is better than the old cork one.

The neoprene seal is better than the old cork one.

Pete, is there any way to assess the condition of the neoprene bushing? Visually it looks fine. Should I leave it undisturbed?
Thanks

As an aside, is there a specific torque for replacing the timing cover screws - or just firm

Hi DEAN-------If you are not to sure about the condition then a new one from our hosts is only}--- Part No.144452, @ £6 + VAT + P&P......They were fitted as standard on the later models and, unlike the cork, don't crumble or break-up with age...... Regarding the higher output pumps}--- other posts in previous threads have advised opening up the oil holes in the rocker blocks and head.. This is to make use of an increase in the OIL FLOW RATE rather than have an increase in pressure at these points....The increased flow will absorb and remove a greater amount of heat, especially around the Exhaust valve/guide area...It might also be worth the time/money/effort to fit one of our hosts pressure relief valve kits....I torque my timing cover bolts to the same as the rocker cover nuts..............

Plus 1 with the new nut with bonded seal... its twenty years old and a vital part in the lube chain..

£6.00 for peace of mind i reckon. Also rocker lube hole mod good idea...

Are you staying with iron barrel or alloy? What piston? Just interested, keep in touch as to how its going
and photos of stuff would be nice....gwilly

What's £6 when you're doing a rebuild? And you get a new worm drive as well (but check the worm on the oil pump spindle that could have been the problem)

You are correct. No time to start cutting corners - will order the part.
Thanks