351w and roller rockers

[RFMustangGT]

I'm trying to set the gap between the roller tip and the spring and I was wondering what should the gap be? I'm using hydo lifters. I know that you set the piston at top dead center and then tighten the nut all I need to know is what should the gap be set at. I've heard everything from .030 to 3/8 of an inch. please help! thanks ahead of time.

 

[351carlo]

Hydraulic lifters are set with a preload, not a gap. You should check your cam booklet for instructions. You basically tighten them to zero lash, and then put another 1/4-1/2 turn on them to set the preload.

 

[1969mach1351]

351carlo has it right. To get zero lash kinda spin the pushrod with your fingers and you'll feel when its snug. I use 1/4 turn after that.

 

[rbohm]

yep zero lash then 1/4 turn more. as far as getting zero lash, i like to check the vertical play of the pushrod rather than the spin as it is more accurate.

 

[ddonaca351]

Different cam and lifter manufacturers like different amounts of preload (NO GAP ON HYD LIFTERS) check with your cam or lifter manufacturers tech department for their reccomendation.
General rule of thumb is 1/4-1/2 turn.

DD

 

[RFMustangGT]

thanks guys. this has really helped me out.

 

[10secgoal]

You can't have the piston at top dead center, unless you are positive it's on the compression stroke. It doesn't matter how far you turn the nut. All you have to do is get the clip in the lifter .010 of the seat. the amount you actually turn to do that is dependant on the thread pitch. Just watch it, it only has to move a little.