I am looking at a set of Jesel Sportsmans for my 396 to upgrade from the Comp roller rockers, 3/8 stud and guide plate setup that I have. I am using a tall valve cover, so clearance is not an issue. I know that T&D makes a really nice set, but they cost a little more, around $1000, where the Sportsmans are $725. I would like to know of some peoples experiences with either brand, such as fitment problems or otherwise. Im using a healthy hydraulic roller right now, and spinning it up to 6600 RPM, and will switch to a solid in the future. Let me know what you guys think of either set up, thanks.



Nick

 

Nick,

All though shaftmounts are bling you really don't need them unless you have a lot of spring pressure.

A Pro Mag, 7/16 stud setup is really strong. You can add a stud girdle to the mix if you want to stiffen it up and you will be more than enough.

I would bet the most lacking part of your valvetrain is not the rockers but the pushrods, spend a little more there and your setup will be good to go.

Bret

 

Hey Bret,

Thanks for your reply. I am using Comp Cams Hi Tech pushrods, which are supposed to be pretty good. Right now I have a 3/8 stud, Comp Cams aluminum roller rockers (non S/A), with AFR guide plates. I should have gone with the Pro Mag and 7/16 stud. Oh well, the current set up has held up fine so far, Im just lookin into other possibilities or recomendations. Thanks again for your advice.



Nick

 

You could try this?

 

Yeah just jump to a Pro Mag and 7/16 stud and you will be good to go.

Bret

 

How big are the spring diameter on your valve spring?

I could not run a Pro-Mag with my springs. I ended up with a Harland Sharp setup.

 

Hey Bret, that sounds like a good idea for an upgrade. CANTONRACER, thanks for the link, but I am not a big fan of C.A.T. products, or Eagle for that matter. The price is tempting, half of what the Jesel's or T&D's would cost, but I believe in you get what you pay for, so they are out for me.



Nick