Brinelling marks on pushrod tip : V-Twin Forum: Harley Davidson Forums

HugoBetz · 10-30-2009, 11:15 AM

I recently received a set of Headquarters adjustable pushrods that looked in perfect condition. On further inspection I discovered that one had some brinelling marks on the tip that engages the rocker arm. They look like scratches but are smooth. If you rub your finger over the top of the tip it feels smooth to the touch. Other than buying a new set, what are my options? Can this one pushrod be used or can I replace the tip?

nw_guy4_fun · 10-30-2009, 11:56 AM

If they are aluminum you may be able to use them for something

But not in the motor.
I won't use aluminum pushrods any longer, been there done that
If they are steel looking at the mating part would tell more, they are likely OK
How about a close-up?

HugoBetz · 10-30-2009, 11:59 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by nw_guy4_fun

If they are aluminum you may be able to use them for something

But not in the motor.
I won't use aluminum pushrods any longer, been there done that
If they are steel looking at the mating part would tell more, they are likely OK
How about a close-up?

They are chromemoly not aluminum. The marks are on the tip that enters the rocker arm socket not the tubing.

nw_guy4_fun · 10-30-2009, 12:04 PM

OK good how does the rocker socket look?

HugoBetz · 10-30-2009, 12:07 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by nw_guy4_fun

OK good how does the rocker socket look?

Don't know, I bought them used.

HugoBetz · 10-30-2009, 12:13 PM

Chevy used to offer hypo rockers that had grooves machined in the pivot ball to hold oil. This kind of resembles this but not as deep or long. It is about .07 long.

TimberwolfZ28 · 10-30-2009, 03:24 PM

sounds like it's just a polished spot from metal to oil to metal friction. I wouldn't worry

hugie03flhr · 10-30-2009, 04:28 PM

I second that! It could be discoloration from the dom process.

HugoBetz · 10-30-2009, 08:37 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TimberwolfZ28

sounds like it's just a polished spot from metal to oil to metal friction. I wouldn't worry

Nope these are definite gouges. Like something hit them a glancing blow.

hugie03flhr · 10-31-2009, 10:05 AM

Send them back. It happens but lets see if the company stands behind their product?

HugoBetz · 10-31-2009, 10:17 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by hugie03flhr

Send them back. It happens but lets see if the company stands behind their product?

I bought them used as is.

plongson · 10-31-2009, 10:24 AM

Put them in a drill and use progressively finer grit emery paper to get rid of the marks...It's going to be your call on if they are salvageable not. Otherwise, $hit can 'em and chalk it up...

Now days, there's lots of "cast off" parts out there, folks trying to make a $$ off junk. Like they say, "buyer beware".

HugoBetz · 10-31-2009, 10:36 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by plongson

Put them in a drill and use progressively finer grit emery paper to get rid of the marks...It's going to be your call on if they are salvageable not. Otherwise, $hit can 'em and chalk it up...

Now days, there's lots of "cast off" parts out there, folks trying to make a $$ off junk. Like they say, "buyer beware".

These pushrods are in great shape, just this one looks like something banged against the tips. I think it will be OK as the surface feels smooth other than the dips caused by the marks. It will be a place to hold oil LOL.

jimesc · 11-01-2009, 09:28 AM

HugoBetz · 11-01-2009, 09:41 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jimesc

Thanks Jim!
One of the three nicks appears to be about .001-.002 deep. The others you can catch with your finger nail but all feel smooth when you rub your finger tip over them.