Finally got my car back on this side of town to finish the work on it. Recently installed vortec heads with 2.02/1.60 valves. Discovered I need push rod guide plates. I am in the process of making those myself with aluminum. The speed shops keep telling me I need a different type of screw-in stud and I don't want to take the heads off again for more machining. So far I drew up a diagram of how to make it work. It will be one solid piece for each head. Will keep you people updated as the fabrication takes place. Wish me luck!

 

Luck!

 

Why not just run self aligning rockers? I know the guide plates you buy are hardened steel, I am not sure how well aluminum would hold up to rubbing against the push rod.

 

It will get me by until I can get money for the self aligning rockers. Waiting for people to give me money they owe me so I can get this car finished. I will be getting rockers, runners and throttle body to finish the engine. Then it's on to the body and interior.

 

Change of plans, the push rod guides are not going to work, as 3rd gen will pointed out. I am going to install new rocker studs and guide plates from ARP and Comp Cams. Getting the new push rods tomorrow. Putting them in this weekend and getting the car started. Hope all goes well and no other issues come up. Can't wait to see what the Vortec heads with bigger valves will do with my engine. Spent about $1800 to get this engine together now and would hate to come across anymore issues. Will update after the weekend.