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Any tricks/tips to installing counter shaft in 883 4-speed

64SF

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Am rebuilding a 883 and am having a difficult time reinstalling the counter shaft. Biggest problem is the thrust washers (the knotched ones) and trying to align them. I’ve tried thick grease and even a strong magnet on the case. Any comments/tricks/tips would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
 
Cut a piece of 1/2” pvc pipe to fit the case exact. I’ve even used part of a broom handle. Assemble it all and drop it in.

If its a OD you need to set it in the bottom then assemble the main before you set countershaft in place.
 
I use a section of conduit lightly chamfered on the ends. It really helps to use an assembly grease in lieu of the normal axle grease. Axle grease slides and the assembly grease I have is sticky. Brewers, etc. sells good assembly grease. Petroleum jelly works in a pinch.
 
They can be glued in place also. I like "Goop" for this.
Mike
 
I've got the assembly tube from Brewers (looks like a piece of conduit)....I'll look for some sticky assembly grease.
 
Patience and perseverance. I just did mine a couple days ago. Good trans assembly lube keeps the thrust washers attached to the shaft, but not from turning. I eventually was able to get the one tang from each washer started in place and then rotate everything to line up top tangs and it dropped in. You MUST keep the cluster shaft perfectly level as you attempt to install it.
 
Using the tips and tricks mentioned above it’s in! What helped the most was the assembly “goop” grease it’s as described thick and sticky.
And yes, for a first timer at this, it does take patience and perseverance.
 
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