how do i know what legth pushrod i need?

fords2fast4u

Founding Member

Mar 27, 2000

1,426

2

39

Mission Viejo, CA

Jun 18, 2008

#1

• Jun 18, 2008

• #1

I have a 69 351W block with ProComp 210cc heads and stud mount scorpion 1.6RRs... but no pushrods! i bought the motor without them. it has the guideplates, but i know that doesn't matter... also, it has an X303 cam with hydraulic roller lifters with the spider in there.

anyone have this setup or similar? i know there's a way to measure, but how?

 

BStevens

Founding Member

Aug 28, 2001

127

0

16

Grand Rapids, MI

Jun 18, 2008

#2

• Jun 18, 2008

• #2

as everyone recommends on here... get a push rod length checker... i just went through the same ordeal on my new motor for my 88 LX. it will save you time and it will ensure that you get the closest fit for your setup.

 

fords2fast4u

Founding Member

Mar 27, 2000

1,426

2

39

Mission Viejo, CA

Jun 18, 2008

#3

• Jun 18, 2008

• #3

pushrod length checker? where the heck do i get one of those? Autozone? lol

never heard of it.

I'll do a search for it here in a few, but i remember there being a way to measure this as you were putting the engine together... just can't remember how.

 

ShortThrow50

Member

Oct 22, 2006

923

2

16

Pa

Jun 18, 2008

#4

• Jun 18, 2008

• #4

never heard of one either. but i did a search and summit has them
http://store.summitracing.com/egnsearch.asp?N=700+115+-108240&D=-108240

 

BStevens

Founding Member

Aug 28, 2001

127

0

16

Grand Rapids, MI

Jun 18, 2008

#5

• Jun 18, 2008

• #5

trust me... you'll want to find one you can borrow or buy one. i know it sounds like a waste... but it'd be even more of a waste to buy pushrods and then they not be the best suit for your car. invest the money in it...

you can never have enough tools

 

85_SS_302_Coupe

it sucks (I know) to be on the receiving end

15 Year Member

Nov 11, 2003

6,945

1,598

223

Northern KY

Jun 18, 2008

#6

• Jun 18, 2008

• #6

Well consider what could happen with the wrong length rod...With too short, you're not getting the full lift of your cam and therefor aren't making as much power as you should be. Or, if you use rods that are too long you could send the valves into the pistons like my last engine did (i didn't build the engine...i got it from someone and first time i tried to start it, it wasn't pretty).

It takes a little effort but just like doing a piston-to-valve clearance check, it's necessary. Also a quick important note....you CAN NOT check piston-to-valve clearance with the adjustable pushrod (ask how i know..lol). It's not designed for the stress that the lifter will put on it and it'll break.

 

fords2fast4u

Founding Member

Mar 27, 2000

1,426

2

39

Mission Viejo, CA

Jun 18, 2008

#7

• Jun 18, 2008

• #7

all right fine, I'll buy the tool! I hope they're not too much! Maybe i can borrow one from the parts store or an engine builder around here... hmm

thanks guys!