Setting up rockers / valve lash (yeah another one lol)

[96SVTpilot]

First, thanks for looking in. I have recently completed a head, intake, rockers, and clutch swap on my 92 GT. The mustang gods have decided to kick me in the nuts and not allow the car to start up on the first go . The starter turns the motor over but I get no combustion except for a weak backfire-like pop or two. I've done all the searches and checklists and I think I've narrowed it down to the valve adjustment. I am using FMS 1.6 roller rockers (pedestal) with box stock brodix ST50 heads (1.94/1.60) and stock length pushrods as recommended by brodix. My main question: after I find zero lash and torque the extra 1/4 - 1/2 turn, should I be concerned if I can still rotate the rocker by hand? This was the case my first go-around and I (mistakenly?) snugged them down a little more. I would appreciate any confirmation from you valvetrain veterans before I go ripping the intake and valve covers off again.

 

[5spd GT]

I'm sure you meant rotating the pushrod and not the rocker.

I personally (after finding zero lash - no gap between rocker tip and lifter by pulling up on the pushrod) and turning the extra 1/2", have never found that my pushrod spins.

NOw since you have pedestal mounted rockers, I believe you torque them to 22ft. lbs or so...you do not use the "1/4" or 1/2" method. Find zero lash and torque..

Good Luck!

 

[legalize420]

the rocker should not rotate. do one cylinder at a time. make sure both valves are closed. tighten to 25 ft lbs. go to next cylinder and repeat.

 

[cobradvm]

Is your timing set close enough to get it to fire? I would make sure you are at TDC on #1 and have the dizzy dropped in right - make sure you are not 180 off.

 

[fordman54935]

Try this link: http://www.fordracingparts.com/download/instructionsheets.asp


Down by the bottom of the list you'll see instructions in .pdf format for your rockers - direct from Ford Racing

 

[96SVTpilot]

Thanks for the replies, I feel confident now diving back in

 

[Killer50stang]

Is your timing set close enough to get it to fire? I would make sure you are at TDC on #1 and have the dizzy dropped in right - make sure you are not 180 off.

Agreed! Sounds like a timing issue if you're getting backfire. You need to be in the range 8-12 I believe unless you're running locked timing.

 

[91lxttrim]

Is your timing set close enough to get it to fire? I would make sure you are at TDC on #1 and have the dizzy dropped in right - make sure you are not 180 off.

That was my brilliant move after my HCI. Same thing, weak crank, backfire through intake. Rotated dizzy and VROOOOM!!! Good luck!