Cody Casey
Harley Davidson motorcycle enthusiasts often use terms like panhead and shovelhead to refer to certain types of engines. While it is possible to put a panhead on a lower shovelhead motor, there are some modifications that need to be made. For example, the oiling system is different for the heads, and the pushrod tubes and rocker boxes may need adjustments. Some people opt to build a panhead from scratch, while others experiment with mixing and matching parts.
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What You'll Learn
It is possible to fit a panhead on a lower shovel head motor
One of the primary challenges is related to the oiling system. Shovelheads typically use external oil lines, while pre-1965 panheads oiled up the pushrod tubes. This difference in oiling systems can create complications that need to be carefully addressed during the modification process.
Another consideration is the rocker arm ratio. Shovelheads have a rocker arm ratio of 1.5:1, while pans have a ratio of 1.6:1. This discrepancy can lead to issues with valve interference during overlap due to the longer rocker arms on the panheads. Some builders have suggested using STD panheads, which employ shovel bolt patterns and intakes, to overcome this challenge.
Additionally, there may be issues with the head bolts not lining up correctly. It might be necessary to plug and tap one or two bolts to ensure proper alignment. This issue has been reported by some builders, but others have successfully completed the modification without encountering this problem.
When undertaking this modification, it is advisable to seek out aftermarket panheads specifically designed for shovel heads, such as those offered by S&S. These aftermarket parts can simplify the process by ensuring compatibility between the panhead and shovel head components.
In conclusion, while it is possible to fit a panhead on a lower shovel head motor, it requires careful consideration of the oiling system, rocker arm ratios, and potential bolt alignment issues. With the right approach and parts, a smooth-running engine can be achieved, as evidenced by the experiences of other motorcycle enthusiasts who have successfully undertaken this unique modification.
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The oiling system is different for the heads
The Shovelhead engine was produced from the mid-1960s to the early 1980s. Harley designed the Shovelhead to deliver more power to their heavier bikes, which had electric start and rear suspension. The Shovelhead's shallow chambers helped with cooling and performed better at higher compression ratios. The Shovelhead engine is the most challenging to identify because its shape does not resemble that of a conventional shovel. Instead, it looks like an upside-down coal shovel.
The Panhead engine was produced from 1948 to the mid-1960s and was replaced by the Shovelhead. The purpose of the Panhead design was to aid in oil containment, but it was not successful, as Panheads still leak oil from the top end. The distinguishing feature of each of these engines is the shape of their heads, which serve as valve covers. Each head is distinctively shaped, and the inspiration behind each engine name.
There are issues with oil passages and oil lines when fitting a Panhead on a Shovelhead lower motor. It is possible to use STD heads, which are conducive to mixing and matching, and give the best of both worlds. STD heads have shovel bolt patterns and shovel intakes.
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Shovelheads oil with external oil lines
Fitting a pan head on a shovel head motor is possible and not too difficult. However, there are some issues with oil passages and oil lines that must be addressed. Shovelheads oil with external oil lines, and up until 1965, panheads oiled up the push rod tubes. The early oil pumps were not the same.
There are several ways to address the oiling system when fitting a pan head on a shovel head. One user on the Jockey Journal Forum recommends using an S&S Pan manifold, an S&S Super E, and a split oil line adapter to get the oil up to both cylinders. They also mention that push rods and tubes may need to be replaced as the shovel push rods and tubes may be too long.
Another user on the same forum suggests using STD heads, which offer the "best of both worlds." STD heads have a 3-bolt exhaust, whereas shovels have a 1-bolt exhaust, and pans have a clamp-type exhaust. This user also mentions that they use original panhead rockers, shovel pushrods, and shovel pushrod covers.
A third user on the HDForums website discusses the external oil lines on 1982 and 1983 shovelheads. These oil lines were for oil evacuation and were a short-term solution. Harley Davidson made several changes to address this issue, including modifying the oil seal, rocker arm cover oil line fittings, crankpin, pressure relief valve, and oil pump cover.
When routing oil lines on a shovelhead, it is important to pay attention to the fittings and hoses. One user on the Shovelhead Forum provides detailed instructions on how to route the oil lines with an external filter. They mention that the inboard fitting on the oil pump is the oil return to the tank, and a hose should be connected from that fitting to the "IN" side of the filter. Another hose should then be connected from the "OUT" side of the filter to the tank return fitting.
Another user on the same forum mentions that there is a hose fitting just above the oil pump in the cases, which is the case vent. This should be plumbed to the vent fitting at the oil tank. There is also a fitting behind the pump and under the rear motor mount area that is the crankcase breather outlet. This can be connected to a short hose that hangs under the engine or a longer hose that is routed back behind the transmission.
When using a stock oil bag with an internal filter, the return from the pump should be plumbed to the top of the oil bag, and the feed to the pump should be plumbed to the fitting on the bottom of the oil bag. The case vent should be plumbed to the other fitting on the top of the oil bag, and the larger fitting under the rear motor mount is the crankcase breather.
Some users have discussed creating their own oil lines, with one user making brass oil lines that split to the top rockers. Another user ran two steel braided hoses from the fitting coming out of the engine case, one to each rocker box. It is important to note that the stock oiling system can have problems with low oil pressure and oil starvation if it is worn out.
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Panheads oiled up the push rod tubes
Fitting a panhead on a shovel head motor is possible and not too difficult. However, there are some things to keep in mind, especially when it comes to the oiling system. Early panheads, up to 1965, oiled up the push rod tubes, whereas Shovelheads used external oil lines.
One user on the Jockey Journal Forum noted that they had to get push rods and tubes for their panhead-shovelhead combination because the shovel push rods and tubes were too long. They also noted that they used a split oil line adapter to get the oil up to both cylinders.
Another user on the Harley Davidson Forums noted that the cylinder base bolt pattern is the same for the 66-69 Panhead lower unit with Shovel jugs, but they couldn't remember how the rocker boxes got oil.
A user on the ChopCult forum noted that they used original panhead rockers, shovel pushrods, and shovel pushrod covers. They also noted that the rocker arm ratios are different between the two, with shovel ratios at 1.5:1 and pans at 1.6:1.
When it comes to the oiling system for panheads, there have been reports of oil leaks from the pushrod tubes due to too much oil being pumped into them. It is important to note that there is nothing in the pushrod tubes that requires a large amount of oil. The oil return on panheads goes down the head casting and into the crankcase via the drain hole in the cylinder. Some oil also comes out of the end of the rocker arm and runs back down through the drain hole into the case.
To prevent oil leaks, S&S recommends blocking the oil feed to tappets when using solids. It is also important to consider breather timing and ensure that it is correct.
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The early oil pumps were not the same
The process of fitting a pan head on a shovel head motor is not overly complex, but there are some key considerations to be aware of. Firstly, the rocker arm ratios differ between the two types of heads, with shovel heads having a ratio of 1.5:1 and pan heads 1.6:1. This difference can lead to issues with valve interference during overlap due to the longer ratio of the pan rockers. It is also important to note the differences in the oiling systems between the two types of heads. Shovel heads typically use external oil lines, while early panheads utilised pushrod tubes for oiling. This means that adapting the oiling system when fitting a pan head on a shovel head can be challenging.
The early oil pumps were indeed different from modern ones. In the early days of the oil industry, steam-driven walking beam pump systems were commonly used. These systems involved a steam engine that rhythmically raised and lowered one end of a sturdy wooden beam, pivoting on a Samson post. The other end of the beam was attached to a string of sucker rods that pumped oil to the surface. This method was adapted from water-well technology and was used in the oilfields of Venango County, Pennsylvania, in the late 1800s.
Over time, the walking beam pump evolved into what became known as a pumpjack. Pumpjacks are still used today, both for oil extraction and to drive old-fashioned hand-pumped water wells. The basic mechanism involves converting the rotary motion of an electric motor or internal combustion engine into vertical reciprocating motion to drive the sucker rod and pump the fluid. The depth and weight of the oil determine the pump size, as deeper extraction requires more power to move the discharge column.
While the basic principle of pumpjacks remains unchanged, the technology has advanced significantly. Modern pumpjacks are often powered by prime movers, which can be electric motors or internal combustion engines, depending on the location and availability of electricity. Additionally, the use of natural gas, propane, or diesel fuel as alternative power sources has been explored. The scale of pumpjacks has also increased, with some pumpjacks in water wells now having stroke lengths of 54 inches or longer.
In conclusion, while the fundamental concept of oil pumps has remained consistent, the technology and power sources have evolved over time. The early oil pumps, such as the walking beam pump, were crucial in the development of the oil industry, and their legacy can still be seen in modern pumpjack systems. However, advancements in efficiency and power have led to the more sophisticated pumpjacks we see today.
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Frequently asked questions
Fitting pan heads on a shovel head can be challenging due to differences in the rocker arm ratios, oiling systems, and head bolt alignments.
STD heads offer the best of both worlds, combining the advantages of pan and shovel heads. They feature a 3-bolt exhaust, which is an upgrade from the 1-bolt on shovels or the clamp type on pans.
The oiling system requires careful attention. Shovels typically oil using external oil lines, while pre-1965 panheads oiled up the pushrod tubes. Ensuring compatibility and effective oil drainage is crucial to the engine's performance and longevity.
