I'm not sure if I'll need them or not.

I also don't know what cam I'll be running at this point. Basics are a 383 w/ 6" rods, ported heads, Long tubes, Comp Cams Pro Mag Roller rockers/camshaft package from Combination Motorsports, some other stuff.

What applications require them? I thought I'd seen if one were using self centering RR's not to use guides because they will bind, something like that...

 

If you are using self-aligning rockers, you should not use guideplates. If the rockers are non self-aligining, you must use them. I am not sure of what, if any, limitations that self-aligning rockers have. I suspect there is some downside, as you don't see them on race engines. Since they are what I am used to, when I replaced my rockers with rollers, I went with non self-aligning and got the guidelplates and hardened pushrods to match.

If you got self-aligning rockers, run without guideplates and vice versa.

Rich Krause

 

OK that's what I thought I had heard.

My builder said that to get guide plates and install them would be ~$150. Yikes.

By self aligning, you mean aligning themselves over the valve correct?

I'll have to see if the Comp Cams Pro Magnum RR's are self aligning or not. Anyone know?

While I'm on the subject, are the rocker stock studs 3/8" or 7/16" ? Should I replace the rocker studs, or just leave them be?

 

CC Pro Mags can be bought SA or NSA and for either 3/8 or 7/16 studs. Stock studs are 3/8, but the part that screws in the head is 7/16. If you want to change to larger studs (I would recommend with a high lift cam), all you do is unscrew the studs and screw in the new ones. Insert guideplates under the studs if you get the NSA rockers. It should not cost you any $150 .

 

The term "self-aligning" refers to the rocker having a sort of cup/slot arrangement to keep the pushrod aligned. 7/16" studs are a good idea, and are pretty cheap. ARP 7/16" studs should run <$50. Piece of cake to install. Guideplates run about $25 for a set. Also easy to install.

Rich Krause

 

I'd be more inclined to spend $13 on some Summit ones (Alloy tool steel, rolled threaded, heat-treated, black oxided) than $30 for the ARP's, but then again I'm cheap like that

I thought the "self aligning" was on the valve end. I noticed on my stock rocker arms over the valve it comes down slightly on each side of the valve to keep it centered I guess.

What is the better way to go? NSA w/ guideplates, or SA's? I don't know why he told me $150 to get them and install them, everything else has been pretty reasonable. If I do go that route I'll do them myself.

Still looking for what's the best route

 

non self aligning are usually quieter.

 

Non SA with guideplates is the more stable setup for high rpm abuse.

 

Could he possibly think that the studs are pressed in, not threaded, and allowing for the extra labor?
Yes the self aligning are done at the valve end of Crane RR's [ like 2 'thrust' washers on valve end.. on each side of the valve stem top]