Setting valves on a 350 Chevrolet with hydraulic lifters and standard rockers?

Answer 1

If engine runs let it get to normal operating temp //remove both valve covers //with engine running //start down either side front to back and slowly back off rocker arm nuts till it taps//then slowly tighten bak down just till tapping stops //then tighten a half to a full turn depends on how many miles on engine do this on all rockers //should take care of adjustment..if just rebuilding engine //with intake off there is intake and exhaust setup by turning crankshaft 180 degrees adjust all intake then all exhaust by turning pushrods and tighting rocker nuts just till push rods wont rotate any longer with fingers then go a half turn more ..after motor is running may still need to go back and readjust as I describe at first ..but most likely wont need to!!!!!

Tightening until the pushrod no longer turns on a hydraulic lifter is wrong. The rocker will be too far down and will cause the valve to hit the piston, bend a rod and can break the rocker too!!! Tighten the rocker until there is no more lash (free movement of the pushrod up and down) then finish with anywhere from 1/4 to 1 full turn depending on manufacturer recommendations, mileage of engine and desired performance effect. ALWAYS do a final adjust with the engine at operating temperature while running. You can take a set of old valve covers and cut a narrow piece out along the length to get the the nuts. This helps keep oil shooting out to a minimum!