How to Install a Cam and Camchest Kit on Your M8 Harley-Davidson

Upgrading the cam and camchest on your Milwaukee-Eight (M8) Harley-Davidson is one of the best ways to unlock more horsepower and torque while improving overall engine performance. Whether you're looking for better throttle response, improved mid-range power, or a full race-ready setup, installing a cam upgrade is a solid investment. 

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the installation process, covering the tools you'll need, key steps, and expert tips to make your install smooth and efficient.

Tools & Parts You’ll Need

Before getting started, make sure you have all the necessary tools and parts ready:

Required Tools:

Not all specialty tools are available on our site, but we can get most of them. Shoot us an email if you can't find what you need

• Set of standard sockets 
• Set of standard wrenches
• Set of allens - standard and metric
• Ratchets
• Pliers
• Feuling crankshaft runout gauge
• Cam sprocket locker
• Inner cam bearing remover/installer tool
• Pushrod keeper tool
• Rubber bands with paper clips to hold pushrod tubes up
• Feeler gauges
• Loctite
• Assembly lube
• Shop rags
• Torque wrenches
• Drain pan
• Service manual for torque specs

Parts You’ll Need:

Here are the parts we used in our install video. These can all be substituted with different options if needed. 

• Shop All Cams
• Woods 22XD Cam
• S&S Cam Plate & Oil Pump
• S&S Cam Install Kit
• S&S Quickee Pushrod Kit
• S&S Tappet Cuffs
• S&S Tappet Set
• Tappet Block Covers
• Oil Change In A Box

We used these parts because the customer wanted the 22XD cam specifically so we pieced together a custom kit for him. You can also buy a complete S&S or Feuling camchest kit if you want to buy one package with everything you need. S&S has since also released camchest kits with no cam so you can buy the complete kit and then add the cam of your choice. 

• Shop Full Camchest Kits Here
• Shop Camchest Kits WITHOUT Cam Here

Step-by-Step Installation Process

Step 1: Prepare Your Motorcycle

1. Secure the Bike: Place your Harley on a stable lift or stand to keep it upright and level.
2. Drain the Oil: Remove the drain plug and let all the engine oil drain into a pan. Remove the oil filter as well.
3. Remove the Exhaust and Floorboards (If Necessary): This will give you clear access to the cam cover and make working easier.

Step 2: Remove the Stock Cam and Components

1. Take Off the Cam Cover: Remove all bolts securing the cam cover and carefully pry it off.
2. Loosen the Pushrods: If your kit includes adjustable pushrods, you can cut out the stock ones for easier removal.
3. Remove the Lifters: Carefully take out the lifters and store them in a clean, organized manner.
4. Take Off the Camplate and Oil Pump: Remove the bolts securing the camplate and oil pump, then slide the camshaft out.
5. Extract the Cam Bearing: Use a cam bearing removal tool to pull the old bearing from the engine case.

Step 3: Install the New Cam and Camchest Components

1. Install the New Cam Bearing: Use a bearing installer tool to press the new cam bearing into place.
2. Fit the New Camshaft: Apply assembly lube and slide the new cam into position.
3. Reinstall the Camplate and Oil Pump: Align everything correctly, ensuring oil passages are lined up, and tighten to factory torque specs.
4. Install the New Lifters: Make sure they are well-lubed before inserting them.

Step 4: Adjust Pushrods and Reassemble

1. Install and Adjust Adjustable Pushrods: If using adjustable pushrods, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for setting the correct preload.
2. Reinstall the Cam Cover: Use a fresh gasket and tighten bolts to spec.
3. Refill Oil and Replace Filter: Use fresh oil and a new filter to ensure proper lubrication.
4. Reinstall Exhaust and Floorboards: Secure all removed components back onto the bike.

Step 5: Final Checks and Startup

1. Check All Torque Specs: Ensure all bolts are tightened correctly.
2. Prime the Oil System: Turn the engine over a few times without starting to circulate oil.
3. Start the Bike and Monitor: Let the engine idle and check for leaks or unusual noises.
4. Test Ride: After verifying proper function, take the bike for a short test ride to ensure performance improvements.

Final Thoughts

Installing a cam and camchest kit on your M8 Harley-Davidson can seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools, patience, and attention to detail, it's a job most experienced DIY mechanics can handle. Upgrading your cam is one of the best ways to improve your bike’s powerband, throttle response, and overall rideability.

For a full step-by-step video walkthrough, check out our YouTube tutorial here. If you need any parts for your install, you can find them right here on our website! We carry all the best performance camchest kits and offer expert support!

Need Help?

If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out to us at Tucker Speed. Our team of motorcycle experts is here to help you get the best performance out of your Harley-Davidson!