Compression release

[bigkelk9]

So... I got new compression releases from none other then Curtis, installed and thought everything was good to go. Shined light down heads assuring threads and path was clean of debris, installed as instructed to 50 ft lbs of torque, disconnected solenoid on starter, hit switch, both ticked as should. Went for a test ride about 5-10 miles, heard ticking and looked down and noticed my condom was gone and so was the top of the release. Curtis was awesome enough to replace it, got the other in, installed and yet again, same thing after about 25 miles. I mic’d my cylinders after a ton of work was done and at tdc they were almost identical. Compression on both about the same at about 137-138... I just don’t see how it’s possible that something is going on inside the engine that is causing this. Same cylinder (rear). Replaced them because one came apart about a year back and I just limped it on the front until it came apart.. so yeah it was time. Any ideas or suggestions would be great.. thanks in advance!

 

[john sachs]

A few things.
Before you installed the new releases, did you clear the vent hole in the exhaust port to the release area? You can use a piece of welding rod to do that with. They DO get plugged up with carbon/oil. Also, I NEVER torque S&S compression releases to more than 28 ft. lbs. I've seen a few blow themselves, including the threads out of the heads. Look at the threads that support them, they're proud in their bore. WEAK. What is your cranking compression with the compression release disconnected?
John

 

[bigkelk9]

A few things.
Before you installed the new releases, did you clear the vent hole in the exhaust port to the release area? You can use a piece of welding rod to do that with. They DO get plugged up with carbon/oil. Also, I NEVER torque S&S compression releases to more than 28 ft. lbs. I've seen a few blow themselves, including the threads out of the heads. Look at the threads that support them, they're proud in their bore. WEAK. What is your cranking compression with the compression release disconnected?
John

I will check that, my compression was about 137-138 with them not working, I will disconnect and double check. But yes I did look and see if it was clear and free, but I’ll get some wire or some rods and push through to assure that it is clean and clear.

 

[bigkelk9]

So, heads are clean, spoke with S&S, come to find out this is a common call for them. They had a huge group of defective ones. I’ll replace it again and roll out and see where it gets me.. lol

 

[HMAN]

So, heads are clean, spoke with S&S, come to find out this is a common call for them. They had a huge group of defective ones. I’ll replace it again and roll out and see where it gets me.. lol

Sounds like my kinda luck dude. Hope the replacements hold?

 

[FrankBDPS]

So, heads are clean, spoke with S&S, come to find out this is a common call for them. They had a huge group of defective ones. I’ll replace it again and roll out and see where it gets me.. lol

At least S&S admitted to getting some bad parts. It is still a pain in the ass to the end consumer though.