Harley Lifters & Pushrods Explained: Everything You Need to Know

If you're a Harley-Davidson rider or mechanic looking to understand the importance of lifters and pushrods in your engine, this article is for you. In our latest YouTube video, we break down how these components function, why they matter, and the differences between stock and aftermarket options.

What Are Lifters & Pushrods?

Lifters and pushrods play a crucial role in your Harley’s valve train system. Lifters (also known as tappets) transfer motion from the camshaft to the pushrods, which then activate the rocker arms and open or close the engine’s valves. This process is essential for proper air and fuel intake, combustion, and exhaust expulsion.

Types of Lifters

There are two primary types of lifters used in Harley-Davidson engines:

• Hydraulic Lifters – These automatically adjust to maintain proper valve clearance, reducing noise and wear while requiring minimal maintenance.

• Solid Lifters – Common in high-performance applications, these require manual adjustments but provide more precise valve timing and stability at high RPMs.

Adjustable vs. Non-Adjustable Pushrods

Pushrods come in two main varieties:

• Adjustable Pushrods – These allow fine-tuning for custom builds or performance upgrades. They’re convenient because they enable lifter and cam changes without removing the rocker boxes.

• Non-Adjustable (Fixed) Pushrods – Found in many stock engines, these require less maintenance but offer no flexibility in adjustments.

Why Upgrade Your Lifters & Pushrods?

Stock Harley lifters and pushrods work well for most riders, but upgrading to high-performance components can improve durability, engine response, and power delivery. Performance lifters and stronger pushrods reduce valve float, enhance camshaft performance, and support higher lift camshafts for more aggressive tuning.

Signs Your Lifters or Pushrods Need Attention

If you notice any of these symptoms, it may be time for an inspection or upgrade:

• Ticking or knocking noises from the engine

• Loss of power or performance

• Excessive valve train wear

• Poor throttle response

Watch the Full Breakdown

Want a visual walkthrough? Check out our YouTube video where we explain everything in detail and show real-world examples of different lifters and pushrods. Whether you're performing routine maintenance or considering performance upgrades, understanding these components is key to keeping your Harley running strong.

Watch now: Harley Lifters & Pushrods Explained

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