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Pushrod length and preload help

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Old Sep 13, 2014 | 08:28 AM
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Default Pushrod length and preload help

I am building a 5.3 for my iroc. I am using a comp cams 7702 length checker. I noticed that my exhaust pushrod would be small then my intake. Is this normal? Should I still run the same size rod? Also, what is a good preload with possible supercharger later on?
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Old Sep 13, 2014 | 09:59 AM
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Preload depends on your lifter and can range from .020 to .080. I have to use two different pushrods for intake and exhaust to get the .035 preload I was looking for.
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Old Sep 13, 2014 | 11:24 AM
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So my intake @ zero lash is 7.275. Exhaust @ zero lash is 7.3.

I am running a ls9 cam and ls7 lifters. What preload should I go with?
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Old Sep 13, 2014 | 03:53 PM
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Preload on LS7 lifter is: .075" I would go with that preload on the exhaust and use one size pushrod on all the valves (.050" on the intake will be just fine)
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Old Sep 13, 2014 | 05:28 PM
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No one else with an opinion? I was thinking about going with 7.375 rods
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Old Sep 13, 2014 | 10:25 PM
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I could be wrong, but aren't you supposed to measure the pushrod length at zero lash, then add you preload to the length to get the size you need? I also believe your supposed to use a solid lifter or checking springs on your valves so the lifters don't bleed down when your attempting to take measurements? Maybe someone else could clarify a little better?
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Old Sep 13, 2014 | 11:25 PM
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Originally Posted by G8One2
I could be wrong, but aren't you supposed to measure the pushrod length at zero lash, then add you preload to the length to get the size you need? I also believe your supposed to use a solid lifter or checking springs on your valves so the lifters don't bleed down when your attempting to take measurements? Maybe someone else could clarify a little better?
yes, find zero lash with the PR checker.. add desired preload amount to that...

In you're case I would run 7.350 PR's and it will give you .075 preload on the intake side and .050 on exhaust side.. ls7 lifter's are typically ran .050-.080 on average so you are still well within that range..
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Old Sep 14, 2014 | 07:44 AM
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Originally Posted by Burken01
yes, find zero lash with the PR checker.. add desired preload amount to that...

In you're case I would run 7.350 PR's and it will give you .075 preload on the intake side and .050 on exhaust side.. ls7 lifter's are typically ran .050-.080 on average so you are still well within that range..
This was gonna be my answer as well. This fine gentleman saved me from having to type it out.
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Old Sep 14, 2014 | 08:13 AM
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Awesome. What rods would you go with? I am leaning towards comp cam hi-tech 5/16" .080.
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