hydraulic valve adjustment

[Guy M.]

I was told when I had my engine rebuilt to tighten down the valves by spinning the push rod by hand until the adjusting stops its spinning and then another 1/4 turn while on the engine stand. Im not too far from initial start up and I was wondering if this is true. If not, how should I proceed adjustment with hydraulic lifters? (six banger) Thanks folks!!

[Michael G.]

Re: hydraulic valve adjustment

Guy,

For what is worth.....the procedure is covered extensively in most Chevrolet shop manuals. Until I researched the procedure do not start the engine....can't assume what hear you is valid. What you have been told sounds like applies to a running engine however valves can be run w/o the engine running (as you know).

[Larry M.]

Re: hydraulic valve adjustment

I was told when I had my engine rebuilt to tighten down the valves by spinning the push rod by hand until the adjusting stops its spinning and then another 1/4 turn while on the engine stand. Im not too far from initial start up and I was wondering if this is true. If not, how should I proceed adjustment with hydraulic lifters? (six banger) Thanks folks!!

This will work if you have individual, adjustable rocker arms.......but it must be done at TDC (compression stroke - both valves closed) for each cylinder. Make sure you start with #1 cylinder in this position before adjustment. Then rotate the crank 120 degrees (for 6 cylinder) and go to the second cylinder in the firing order. Not sure what number this is without looking. Then repeat four additional times. That should do it. Make sure crank damper is properly marked before you start.

You can re-adjust with engine running after startup if you want. Probably a good idea.

Larry

EDIT: The Chevrolet Sevice Manual recommends 1 turn after all lash is removed, versus your suggested 1/4 turn. Both will work.....some folks like the additional 3/4 turn since it should reduce the need for further adjustment. The 1/4 turn may/will require additional lash adjustments in the future.

[Guy M.]

Re: hydraulic valve adjustment

Thanks Mike and Larry, I really appreciate it

[Jim L.]

Re: hydraulic valve adjustment

..... adjustment with hydraulic lifters? (six banger)

Is it safe to assume this engine is NOT for a '54?

Reason being that '54s had solids.

Jim

[Larry M.]

Re: hydraulic valve adjustment

Is it safe to assume this engine is NOT for a '54?

Reason being that '54s had solids.

Jim

Good point! Following the above procedure for SOLID LIFTERS will guarantee a difficult (and perhaps exciting) initial start.

Larry