Two questions on TrickFlow install instructions

As far as checking P to V clearance I have always heard of using the clay method. Lay a layer of modeling clay on one of pistons. Put the head on and crank the motor over by hand a few times. Take the head back off and check the imprint of the valve in the clay. This will give you an idea of how close you are to contact with the piston.

I am sure you would be fine with using the old dowels if they are still in the block and look good. You have to ask yourself is it worth the chance though of something going wrong? You can get new ones for a few bucks so it might just be worth it to replace them to be sure.

You need the solid lifter because the engine isnt running, therefore the lifter wont be fully "pumped up" If you can get your hands on an old stock roller lifter, you can turn it into a solid mockup lifter. Maybe swing by your local junk yard or machine shop. Just remember, you will need longer pushrods with the trickflow heads.

GT_Rich said:

How much does a running motor "pump up" a lifter? How do you convert a scrap lifter into a solid mock-up lifter?

Click to expand...

You remove the retaining clip from the top of the lifter, then take out the plunger and spring. Go get some #10 washers, and stack them up inside the lifter...Then re assemble it with just the plunger and retaining clip. It's now going to act "solid".
(as in it won't depress.) The preload of the hydraulic lifter is between .020"-.060"
You will also need an adjustable pushrod, and trickflow sells a good one for $12.
Good luck