I am in the process of checking the pushrod lenght using an adjustable pushrod. I am using the marker on valve stem method to check the pattern. I have checked mine and with stock lenght pushrod the pattern is closer to the outboard side. With a shorter lenght the pattern is closer to the center but larger, with a longer pushrod the pattern is on the outboard side and with the smallest pattern.
I have read many opinions on this issue and would like some clarification or opinions on pattern position and size. This has been discused loosely in other threads but wanted to get it all in one.

1- Should the pattern be closer to center regardless of size, or
2- Should the pattern be as small as possible regardless of position?

-Ozzy

 

Smaller is better.

It doesn't matter whether the pattern is centered or not; as long as it's not right on the edge. The valve does not care whether the force is applied at the center or not.

A smaller pattern means that the rocker tip is sliding less across the tip of the valve stem; which means that there's less sideways force than a larger pattern.

 

Hey RB, you posted some time back about setting/checking geometry, maybe (if you have it saved) you could post it up as "useful" or a "sticky".

 

Here are two shots of what my two adjustments are:



Left is best centered, right is smallest pattern.

-Ozzy

 

The one on the right is better.