Home›Repair guides›Hercules›To Replace the Cylinder Head

Hercules — To Replace the Cylinder Head

Repair & overhaul

From a Hercules owner's manual — check it applies to your exact model before use.

Procedure

  1. Clean out carbon deposits by scraping or brushing.
  2. Clean out the cap screw holes in the cylinder block using a tap if necessary.
  3. Clean the cylinder block and cylinder head contact surfaces.
  4. Install a clean, new cylinder head gasket with the bead (rolled edge) down.
  5. Place the cylinder head and valve assembly on the block.
  6. Start the head cap screws and nuts and tighten evenly with a torque wrench from the center progressively to the outer ends.
  7. Install the push rods and rocker arms.
  8. Adjust the valve tappets to the proper clearance.
  9. Install the cylinder head cover using a new gasket if required.
  10. Clean and adjust the point gap of the spark plugs; install the spark plugs.
  11. Inspect the thermostat and install thermostat, housing and hoses.
  12. Install the manifold and carburetor using new gaskets if required; connect the exhaust pipe.
  13. Fill the cooling system with the proper solution.

Tools required

Tool links are Amazon searches (affiliate links); manufacturer special tools may only be available from a dealer.

Specs & values

  • Cylinder Head Screw 140 ft lbs
  • Cylinder Head Nut 140 ft lbs

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.

More Hercules repair guides →