Hercules — To Remove the Connecting Rods
Repair & overhaul
From a Hercules owner's manual — check it applies to your exact model before use.
Before you start
- Connecting rods and caps are matched; keep them paired together.
Procedure
- Drain the radiator and disconnect the hoses.
- Remove the thermostat housing and thermostat so the bypass hose can be removed.
- Disconnect and remove the carburetor from the manifold.
- Disconnect the exhaust pipe from the manifold.
- Disconnect the wires and remove the distributor.
- Remove the cylinder head cover, rocker arm assemblies and push rods.
- Remove the cylinder head screws and nuts and lift the cylinder head assembly.
- Remove the oil pan; crank the engine so No. 1 cylinder is in firing position and remove the oil pump.
- Scrape carbon deposit from the top of each cylinder bore.
- Turn the engine so No. 1 and No. 4 connecting rod caps can be removed and push the piston and rod assembly upward.
- Turn the engine as required so the other rods and pistons may be removed.
Tools required
Tool links are Amazon searches (affiliate links); manufacturer special tools may only be available from a dealer.
Source: Hercules owner's manual. Steps and values are as documented; always cross-check against the official manual and any later revisions for your exact serial number before servicing.