Here's what I got... Caddy 365 basically stock. Switched to SBC hydraulic lifters. That along with machine work, new parts etc leaves me having to use way too many shims on the rocker shafts. Wish I had some stude rocker arms. To get the correct length do I set lifter on base circle, adjust pushrod to "zero lash" and then add .100" or so to preload the lifters? Just want to make sure before I start cutting tubes. Thanks for the input.
First off I know NOTHING about your particular setup....with that said if it were me I would do this: 1. put lifter on base circle of cam 2. cut junk pushrod in half and shorten it an 1" or so. Then I'd weld a 1/4-28 nut on either cut end. Install a long set screw so you can adjust your pushrod shorter/longer than stock. 3. Install your "push rod tool" adjusted short. 4. Install rockers/shafts 5. adjust your pushrod tool until it has ZERO backlash (don't preload the lifter at all) 6. Remove and measure your "tool" (no not THAT tool - the one you just made) Your measurement will be SHORT by the amount of PRELOAD you want to have - I'd guess your preload is gonna want to be closer to .020 or .030" all depending on how much YOUR lifters are designed for. (.100" sounds like a mile too much to me)
Shims on the rocker shafts? Or on the rocker stands? If the rockers are oiled through the shafts, any chance you have the oil passage blanked off? Whether the shims are on the shafts or stands. HemiRambler's advice on making your own adjustable 'test' pushrod is right on the money.
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