Hitchcocks Forum

Hi All.
I have just replaced the base and head gasket on my 1987 350 Bullet. I lubed everything with an oil can and pumped oil through the feed pipe, banjo bolts and rocker boxes. However when kicking it over with no plug I got a very slight show of oil at the banjo bolt. With the engine running I expected a jet of oil. A quick spin round the block and still no oil showing at the banjo bolt. What's the problem I haven't disturbed anything else. Although I've had brit bikes before the Enfield is new to me so not sure if I should have done something else.

It can take a couple of minutes for oil to get through everywhere it's supposed to be up to the top end. The assembly oil you've applied will stop everything eating itself for quite a while.



I usually check I'm getting oil at the feed pump first by loosening the quill bolt slightly and either idling the motor or taking it for a "walk" in second gear with the plug out. Once you see oil there, you can be happy it's oiling the crank. Then I nip that one and go to the head banjo bolt in a similar manner. It's more a steady ooze of oil than a squirt.



Obviously, if you're still getting nothing after say, five minutes and you're happy the pipe isn't blocked, you then have to wonder if there is a problem with the oil pump drive spindle. On a very simple level, you could take the scavenge pump cover off and turn the engine over with the kickstart which will give you a visual indication if the pump is moving (but not what's happening under load). If you're not convinced, then consider removing the timing cover and checking the condition of the splines on the oil pump drive spindle.

Thanks stinkwheel. I'll try those tips and probably do an oil change at the same time. Great forum this a mine of information.

One way to see where the oil is going.

Hi Guys----------'mornin Stuart M......Here's a bit of "Enfieldology" that sets it apart from the general run of old Brit. bikes}------ With the majority of old Brit. bikes the oil feed to the rockers is via. a "Tee-piece" plumbed into the scavange return line to the oil tank...........The Enfield differs in that ALL the scavanged return oil is fed to the rockers, then drains down the pushrod tubes etc.....Within the bottom of the engine crankcase are placed the various oil strainers which will need removing and cleaning as part of your servicing....

Thanks guys I,'ll work my way through the lube system clean everything and carry out the suggested checks. I'm sure there's is oil getting into the top end but I need to make sure before trusting the engine on a run round the Lancashire hills. Can't do anything for a week or so now other commitments. Enjoying the forum regards to all.

Hi Guys--------- this might help}-----

Where abouts in Lancashire are you Stuart? I'm in Preston.