[1]Welcome once again to Throwback Thursday. It’s that time of the week when we take a look back in the Chevy Hardcore vault of information and locate a previously published article that you guys might have either forgotten about, or for some reason, might not even know exists. Let’s face it, with so much great content on the website to peruse, we understand how easy it is to miss something. Either way, we are confident that you will surely enjoy this editorial flashback.
When it comes to setting valves on an engine – be they solid or hydraulic type, everyone has an opinion about the best way to accomplish the task. This week, we jump way back to July of 2010, and take a look at an article called How To Set And Adjust Valve Lash Like A Pro [2].
[3]Are you using the proper tools for the job?
In the original article, an inquisitive Bobby Kimbrough takes the time to talk to experts like Scott Shafirof, Pat Musi, David Reher, and Comp Cams [4]’ tech adviser, Ashley Newman. By doing so, our man on the scene was able to get the skinny from these noted professionals, in order to help you be confident that when you do it yourself, the task is properly done. Who knows, maybe there is a better way to make the adjustments than you’ve been utilizing? The only way you’ll be sure is to click here [2] and find out what our panel of professionals had to say, in order to get the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth.
It should go without saying that you probably understand that valve lash is the clearance between the tip of the rocker arm and valve stem tip, but what you might not realize, is that setting a proper valve lash is a delicate balancing act between durability and delivering maximum power. For instance, did you know that many times, a camshaft’s recommended valve lash setting isn’t actually the exact gap where your car’s engine will run the best? Shafiroff talks more about that in the original article. According to Pat Musi, his valve lash-setting tricks begin before the lifters are even installed in the engine. But, again, you’ll have to read the article to find out what he means.
[5]Setting the valve lash is not rocket science, but does require patience and a little knowledge on the subject.
We’ve all seen guys that set the valve lash by rotating the engine through a cycle, and then setting various, opposing cylinder’s valve lash as they go. But, is that really the best way to do it? Maybe not according to experts.
Whether you’re a novice engine builder and want to learn a new process, or a seasoned veteran that would like to brush up on some skills, taking a look back at this throwback article can probably offer some information you didn’t previously know, and anytime you can learn something new, that’s always a good thing. So check out the original article [2], and we’ll talk to you next week.