New heads, cam & valvetrain. Now checking PR length...Solid lifter?

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May 13, 2016 | 11:35 AM

atlantadan

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From: Tucker, GA

New heads, cam & valvetrain. Now checking PR length...Solid lifter?

I'm installing my top end and cam soon, and the final part is the pushrod length. AFR 180's, CompCams LT3312/3314/HR112+5, ProMag 1.6's, .026 head gaskets.... I've got the PR length checker, but I'm reading conflicting reports on converting a lifter to solid for this purpose. I've got spare lifters laying around, and it doesn't seem too difficult. That being said, I read also that you should add .040 to the length due to using the "solid" lifter. Anyone?

It seems to be all over the map in regards to even using a solid lifter or a regular hydraulic lifter after soaking in oil. Then there are others that suggest using a soft spring...

I'm open to input and suggestion.
Thanks

May 13, 2016 | 12:28 PM

SS RRR

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From: Jackstandican

No need when you can use this:

Not sure if it can used with 7/16 studs though, if that matters.

May 13, 2016 | 05:37 PM

atlantadan

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From: Tucker, GA

Great tool, but it doesn't tell me the length - only if ones I already have are correct.

May 13, 2016 | 05:45 PM

Casey96SS

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From: Utica, IL

I used soft checking springs from Summit and the adjustable PR. They're cheap. It seemed like it was still a little bit of a guessing game, but it got me in the ballpark.

May 13, 2016 | 07:49 PM

Catmaigne

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From: Conshohocken, PA

Dry erase marker, adjustable PR, and check spring here.

Things to keep in mind...
The check spring could compress a hydraulic lifter if it's not pumped up all the way. A spare lifter converted to solid eliminates any chance of an incorrect reading.
Measuring pushrods with a caliper will not give you exact pushrod length. It will be slightly more than the manufacturer spec (my 7.150" pushrods measured ~0.020" higher).
You have to add lifter preload to pushrod length. This means preload at the lifter, NOT at the rocker stud.