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Question
How do I set the push rods/rockers on a 1956 235 chevy engine ?? They are all installed but I don't want to fire it up without some setings. Thanks
This engine has hydraulic valve lifters. When I put one of these engines together I usually bring each cylinder, one at a time, to to dead center firing stroke. Then adjust the valve so that I have just taken the free play out of the push rod/rocker arm. Then I start the engine and bring it to operating temperature. Then with the engine running loosen the valve adjuster till the valve starts to tap. Turn the adjuster down till the noise stops and then slowly turn it down another 3/4 turn and tighten the lock nut. Repeat with all the adjusters. If the engine runs rough you have a valve or two too tight or there is a defective hydraulic lifter.
Brad
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Answers by Expert:
Brad Sears
Expertise
All automotive including antique and collectible. However if the car has been modified I can only answer in general terms and maybe get you pointed in the right direction.
Experience
Automotive tech instructor.
Syndicated auto columnist 1970's though the early 1990's.
Syndicated auto radio talk show, Ask Brad About cars, CBS Radio 70's through 90's
TV Show "Last Chance Garage" 1980's PBS-TV syndicated.
Auto instructor for the following companies:
Fram
Autolyte
Holly
Carter
AMF
Ford Motor
University Of Conn
Blue Hills Technical School
Sugar River Technical Center
Grew up in a family garage in Needham Mass and turned wrenches from the age of 14.
Publications
Manchester Union Leader, Nashua Telegraph, Motor Service Magazine, Yankee Magazine, Popular Mechanics (Saturday Mechanic early 80's), Los Angeles Times, New York Times, and lots more.
Education/Credentials
More than I care to remember.
Basically Franklin Technical Institute in Boston, Northeastern University, Fitchburg State Teachers College, Tufts University, and a lot of factory schools along the way.
Awards and Honors
Moto Award winner. And much more.
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