Random shade tree question. Whilst chasing an inconsistent idle, I've identified that one of the keepers/ locks for the valves is different to all the others. Vortec L31 engine that I've done the usual springs, retainers and offset locks/keepers mods to accept a LT4 Hot Cam. I seem to have retained the stock locks on one exhaust valve whilst the others are the 686-16 comp cams locks.

Might this cause an 'off' spot on the idle? technically I suppose one valve has a slightly different spring pressure because of the different height lock.

Face palm situation and I'll probably change it anyway to match but interested in thoughts on how this might effect running of the engine or is this insignificant

thanks

 

Probably not. It would have to be SO different to cause something like that, that it would be obvious to the eye. One retainer would sit higher or lower than the others, and there would be a different amount of valve stem exposed above it, as a result.

 

Thanks Sofa

yes it doesn’t seem these actually are offset locks and visually it doesn’t look like a significant difference.

okay I’ll park changing that odd valve lock for now; plenty of other potential culprits