I have read dang near all the pushrod preload threads on here and still need some advise. I have a 5.3 with a comp cam 212/218 and the machine shop milled the heads an unknown amount to correct a few low spots. I measured the length at 7.26 or about with the jegs checker and i dont know what preload to add for these stock new 5.3 lifters.

I was hopeing the 7.4's i have would be ok but it seems they would make the preload over .14 so what size do you recommend and what preload?? Help me please. I did measure at zero lash although this was the first time i done it and i measured the checker end to end/overall.

 

I would use 7.350 pushrods

 

Hmmmm, 7.35 would be around a .09 preload. Anyone else before i order a set of pushrods??

 

I would go back and start with measuring the cc's of the chambers in those heads so you know what you are working with first. What lifters are you using? Also, if you are planning on using comp pushrods, they don't measure their pushrods end to end. If you are measuring your checker end to end you will need to subtract (if I remember correctly) about .016 from your end to end measurement and then add in your preload.

 

Never used a pushrod checker. If your preload is between 3/4 and 1 3/4 turn your good. No different than any small or big block engine. It just doesn't matter.

Your stock pushrods will get your preload in the correct range.

Russ Kemp

 

Ask Brian Tooley. He is really helpful on stuff like that

 

Not sure who brian tooley is, I am useing stock GM lifters with this comp cam and pretty sure a minimal amount was removed from the heads. According to what i measured I was thinking real close to 7.35 is whats needed. I hate to buy them if the 7.4's I have will work. Hopefully I can get a very firm yea or nea on the 7.35's end to end.

 

1 3/4 turns is a little much in my opinion. I would shoot for anything in between 3/4 to 1 1/4 turns.