Push Rods
Thread Starter
On The Tree
Joined: Oct 2018
Posts: 111
Likes: 2
From: Upstate New York
Push Rods Hey guys, I'm about to get my freshly rebuilt engine back from my builder. I just had him build the block an I'm going to assemble the heads. My question is how do I check for the length of pushrods without turning the engine over? Can I just check for one cylinder and assume they're all the same? Or should I check them all? In that case is there anyway I can prime the engine first?
Most will only check intake and exhaust on 1 cylinder. The other 7 cylinders should all be the same. If you’re shooting for 100% blueprint, then check and document length and preload on every valve/ cylinder.
As long as the engine wasn’t assembled dry, there’s no issue with turning the engine over by hand to get the cam on base circle for measuring pushrod length.
As long as the engine wasn’t assembled dry, there’s no issue with turning the engine over by hand to get the cam on base circle for measuring pushrod length.
Thread Starter
On The Tree
Joined: Oct 2018
Posts: 111
Likes: 2
From: Upstate New York
Okay, thanks for the input. I'm not concerned with all of that, as long as its acceptable to only check on 1 cylinder that works for me. I assumed there wouldn't be any variation but just wanted to run it by someone else. I know this is off topic, but what's your opinion on stock rocker arms? I hear people say they're fine and others say they would never use them
Yup stock rockers for me too. Just make sure they’re genuine GM casting. There are offshore castings out there that aren't as strong as real ones. The trunnion upgrade is a good idea but not critical as long as the cam doesn’t have crazy high lift.
Theres nothing wrong with aftermarket 1.8 roller rockers just a little overkill on most engine builds. And not a good bang for the buck IMO.
Theres nothing wrong with aftermarket 1.8 roller rockers just a little overkill on most engine builds. And not a good bang for the buck IMO.
Thread Starter
On The Tree
Joined: Oct 2018
Posts: 111
Likes: 2
From: Upstate New York
Okay thanks guys I'll just be using stock rockers. I saw the trunnion upgrades and they look really nice. I think I'll pick up a set just for the peace of mind, they're not all that pricy
TECH Senior Member
Joined: Jun 2016
Posts: 22,291
Likes: 3,616
From: Central Cal.
Use the bushing style, not the needle bearing style. The trunnions with needle bearings are soft and don't last at all.
