Reusing lifters and rockers?

[BlackVert]

Can I reuse my lifters and rocker arms when I put my new combo together, or do I need to get new ones? I have stock lifters and rockers now.

I'm looking at used heads that are setup for stud mounted rockers. Maybe some used World Products heads if I can get them cheap and port them.

Sorry if this is a stupid question, because I don't even know if it is possible to use stock rockers with heads that are setup for studs.

I know I will need new pushrods.

I'd like to save myself the $500 if possible.

 

[MattZ281LE]

Not a stupid question, its good to ask if unsure.

Yes you can...But I would suggest new lifters while you have it torn down. A set of new stock Fords are about 90.00. Ford Racing Part# M-6500-R302
You will need new rockers for the stud mount heads, stockers are pedatsal mount. A set of scorpions will set you back about 200.00. You can get pricey on rockers though. Be sure to check your valve train geometry, its easy to do and will help ensure a long lasting trouble free combo.

- Matt

 

[BlackVert]

i guess i can handle 300 ...

i have heard about checking the geometry, but i don't know what to check for or how to make sure it is right

 

[MattZ281LE]

I short terms............You want to make sure that the tip of your rocker remains centered on the valve stem throughout the lift range of the valve. I check mine with prussian blue. Things that effect this can be lift, rocker arm type/brand, height of valve stem, lifter, head gasket thickness, block deck, shaved heads and pushrod length.

This is why studs are so much better than pedastals. A pushrod checker is used during assembley. a very light bit of prussian blue is applied evenly to the valve stem. Adjust the valve lash as normal (ensuring your on the base circle of the cam) rotate the engine by hand. Loosen the rocker off (ensure you don't cause excessive movement while loosening) check the valve stem tip. the prussian blue will be gone from the area where contact was made. Contact should be dead center on the stem. Failure to have proper geometry will cause at a minimum premature valve guide wear. if the contact area is toward the exhaust you need a shorter pushrod, is toward the intake side then a longer pushrod is needed.

There are people that more knowledgable on this than me. But thats just a thumbnail overview.

- Matt

BTW. Scorpions will need a taller valve cover. I use fox style. they are nice and light cheap and readily available.

 

[Methodical]

When I checked my valvetrain geometry I used a black felt tip marker on the valve stem. When I get the opportunity I will post a picture so you can see how it hit the center of the valve stem.

Personally, I'd get new ones.