For the Quiet Line operators, here is an upgrade that I found useful. Most are familiar with the lower grille retention springs. Here is what they look like:
Due to the rather large outside diameter, they interfere with the muffler air box and cause annoying rattles at various engine speeds. I came up with a little invention that I’d like to share that’s easy and inexpensive to make and it works. Here’s the parts list:
2 cotter pins, approx .125 diameter by 2.0 long
2 compression springs, approx. 1.75 long by .031 wire diameter, .187 OD
2 small washers, .155 ID by .31 OD
2 small fender washers, .155 ID by .75 OD
Here is what the parts should look like for one assembly:
Assemble the small washer, spring, and then the large washer over the cotter pin, in the order stated. Compress the spring fully and clamp with a pair of vice grips. With another set of pliers, bend over cotter pin legs at the point where the assembly length will be about 2.0 inches, as shown in the picture below:
Trim the bent tabs to be slightly less than the washer radius. Use the grill screen to get the proper length perspective as shown in the picture below:
For a final touch just to prevent potential metal-to-metal contact with the air box, slip a dip molded cap over the end. If you don’t have any of these, use a short length of rubber tubing.
I discovered that some mysterious rattles disappeared once these were installed. They’re fun and easy to make (shouldn’t take over an hour) and only cost a couple dollars in parts.
(Message edited by dkirk on June 25, 2005)
