How difficult is it to install a set of 1.6 roller rockers? Reading up on the net andhere it sounds as easy as removig the valve covers, removing the stock rockers then attaching the new roller rockers and tighten them down while spinning the pushrod. That may be over simplifying it but I haven't found a complete DIY on here on the process. Stock 350.

 

do you know the tdc#1: 1-2-5-7 int
1-3-4-8 exh
tdc#6: 3-4-6-8 int
2-5-6-7 exh adjustment method?
make the process go faster. just tighten down the nut until the rocker just contacts the pushtube. then 1 turn. you might need guide plates if your heads don't have them built in.

 

I wish I could write that it's going to be easy, but it isn't. Not for a first-timer.

What's part of the problem is the different ways it can be done and all the differing recommendations the OP receives. In short order, he becomes so confused he forgets which end of the spark plug goes in the hole, LOL.

So I prepared and posted as a STICKY on LS1LT1.COM with a step-by-step directions on how to do it. It's on the LT1. . . Engine Tech Board. Shoebox shows the same procedure on his website in Method #3. You have to follow those directions exactly.

You should log on there and print it out. You need to read and re-read it until you really understand what to do. Print it out and take it with you when you go out to begin work.

I only emphatically recommend this from experience:

IGNORE DIFFERING ADVICE, it's only going to confuse you - happens ALL THE TIME.

Also, don't mix different directions.

Forget anything to do with Top Dead Center or looking at the balancer/damper.

Forget anything having to do with trying to do multiple valves at one time.

Don't try the procedures shown in Chilton or Haynes books. Even the Factory Service Manual directions will have you pulling out your hair.

I'm only so emphatic about this because those things really are confusing and you'll end up being really frustrated trying to use them. I have yet to see a single person who, doing it for the first time and using those directions (Haynes, Chilton, FSM, etc.), was able to set the lifter preload correctly. Not a single person on their first attempt!

I deliberately made my STICKY long because I wanted it to be detailed, explaining not only HOW to do it but WHY it should be done a certain way.

This is the best advice I can give in my attempt to save you a LOT of aggravation. I hope I've succeeded.

Jake

 

Great write up and pretty easy for a novice like me to follow.

 

I got mine adjusted correctly the first time using the Haynes/Chilton method. Of course, at that time it happened to also be the '57 Chevy Shop Manual method.

The exhaust opening/intake closing lifter-on-the-heel-of-the-lobe method is critical when adjusting solid lifters because of the lash ramps built into the lobes. But, it isn't nearly as critical, and therefore not necessary, with hydraulic lifters.

1/2 turn may be the most recommended, but that doesn't make it correct. I finally stopped listening to the crowds and started listening to the manufacturer, and since using 1 full turn down my valve trains have been nice and quiet, even with more aggressive cams.

 

I installed roller rocker arms in 2 different 91 chevy305 Caprices, I just kept turning over the enging and taking out the slack,turn over and tighten ,over and over until the rockers stayed slightly tight and did not loosen after turning over the engine.years later both V8s are running fine with the new 1.6 comp cams roller rockers, it was easy,right or wrong.

 

Now I'm wondering why it is you suddenly became so (incorrectly) disagreeable. Obviously you failed to fully understand my 1/2 turn reference; that I was only using it because it's what's most often recommended and that others - including me - choose a different setting.


By now I shouldn't be, but I'm still continually amazed at some of the things guys post. One of my New Year's Resolutions was to challenge incorrect information when I come across it; this is an example of my efforts.

Jake