How much preload do you guys add to your rocker arms? Ive always added 1/2 but there always seems to still be some clacking. Ive always tried to avoid more since I didnt want to bog the car down with too much preload.

What is theoretically best for best power? 0 preload?

Just wondering what everyone had to say before I go adjust the rockers again tommorow.

 

I gave 1/4 turn past zero lash. Seems to be working for me so far.

 

So noone adjusts their own rockers huh?

 

1/4 turn.

 

With the engine running...1/8 turn past "chatter".

Frank

 

I made a post like this a while back in the Advanced section and didn't get a whole lot of replies.

If you want the best answer and have normal style hydraulic lifters, then you want to push the plunger down into the lifter appx. .020-.060. This can be accomplished by either using a dial indicator, or scribing the pushrod with a known mark and then scribing it again after the preload is set. Then you measure the distance between the two marks.

That's according to Crane BTW.

 

i did what frank, 12SCNDZ, did pretty much
with engine running, loosen rocker until i hear clacking and oil splattering everywhere, then tightened with with my fingers, until it stopped clacking (pretty much finger tight), then add 1/8 with wrench and lock the nut down.

Jesse

 

So the consensus is pretty much 1/4 or less huh?

 

When I did my cam swap, I initially set them at ½ then loosened/retightened them (one at a time) with the engine warmed up and running at ½ again.

I've had no problems, but if for some reason I have to remove the rockers, I'll do the final set @ ¼ next time.

 

1/2 turn,seems to work for me.

 

Which would be the most accurate? While the car is running? Also how do you guys adjust the passenger side? Do you just leave the alternator on?