This seems to be a common question as to "how to adjust adjustable rocker arms." The process seems to be a sequence of turning the engine over like 4 times with adjusting the poly locks 1/4 turn per turn of the engine. Would it not be easier to adjust the valves like the old sbc way of when the exhaust valve starts to open you would adjust the intake valve and when the intake valve is just about ready to close you would adjust the exhaust valve?? It makes sense to me that would be easier. You would find zero lash then adjust the valve to the proper preload (2 turns- .060-.080). Any reason as to why you would not adjust them that way??? Thanks

 

You should do it the way you are suggesting to do the old SBC way. I called comp when I did my rockers, and they told me to go 1/2 turn of preload instead of the 2 turns you are suggesting. What other way are you hearing to do it?

 

As it says above to find zero lash on the rockers and add 1/4 turn of preload then turn engine over one full turn then add another 1/4 turn and on and on and on. Your suppose to wait like 30 minutes between each revolution. It doesn't make sense to me to do it that way. I have always pre adjusted rockers by when having the exhaust valve come up you adjust the intake and when the intake valve is about to close you adjust the exhaust on that cylinder. My next question is how much preload then. They recommend 2 full turns because of the thread count on the studs. I thought it was too much also. I was thinking just one full turn should be good. I am going to put a dial gauge on the top of the rocker and see what I get for movement. Anyone else have a idea as to how much preload and how they adjust their rockers?? I hear .060 -.080 for preload. The lifters are GM's replacement lifters for the engine. Part number is GM12499225. Thanks in advance.

 

those lifters cannot be used with adjustable rockers.


What kind of rockers are you using? Is this the build that you have in your sig?

 

Why what is the difference with the lifters?? Why can't these lifters be ran with adjustable rockers?? They are the GM performance lifter.

 

Oh really, care to explain why?

 

Yea-What he said.

 

Yes this is the build in my sig.

 

Here is the best post that I've seen on setting preload https://ls1tech.com/forums/generatio...lifter+preload. It should work for any type of pushrod engine with hydraulic lifters and adjustable rocker arms in my opinion.

Steve

 

Great info Steve, thanks a ton! I'm adding that link to the lifter pre-load sticky