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rocker arms

Old Nov 4, 2023 | 09:21 AM
  #1  
1984raw's Avatar
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rocker arms

So i have OEM Rockers arms on my SBC rebuilt heads can i used the same rocker arms or should i get rocker rollers arms instead. I'm running hydraulics cam with lifters thank you
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Old Nov 4, 2023 | 09:41 AM
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From: Northern Arkansas
Car: 1982 MSE, 1988 S10 Blazer
Engine: 305 in both!
Transmission: 200c / Th700r4
Axle/Gears: 3:73 / 3.42
Re: rocker arms

There is a little reduced friction by using roller TIP rockers. And even less friction if you move on to a full roller rocker. But that's not why most folks go that route. The REAL benefit is the increased accuracy of a nice set of rocker arms VS the oem stamped steel units. You can really take full advantage of the camshaft profile when ALL your rocker arms are at the correct ratio.
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Old Nov 4, 2023 | 11:28 AM
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Re: rocker arms

Agreed. If you're going to do it, go full roller to get maximum benefit.
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Old Nov 6, 2023 | 02:58 PM
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From: 51°N 114°W, 3500'
Car: 87 IROC L98
Engine: 588 Alcohol BBC
Transmission: Powerglide
Axle/Gears: Ford 9"/31 spline spool/4.86
Re: rocker arms

For a basic daily driver, the stock, stamped rockers will work fine however, upgrading as mentioned above is well worth it. Stock, stamped steel rockers are not very accurate. You don't need to spend $$$ on high end roller rockers but I also wouldn't recommend going the inexpensive route and buying the cheapest roller rockers you can find.

When buying new rockers make sure they are for the proper stud size. 3/8" is most common for SBC. Do you need self aligning rockers or not? Since you will be buying rockers, might as well bump up the ratio at the same time from the stock 1.5 to 1.6. This will give you slightly more lift. 1.5 and 1.6 rockers are probably close to or are the same price.
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Old Nov 7, 2023 | 11:36 AM
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midias's Avatar
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From: Henrietta NY
Car: 1984 Trans Am L69
Engine: Sniper EFI Powered 355
Transmission: WC T5 w/ Steel Support Plate
Axle/Gears: 3.42 10 Bolt Posi
Re: rocker arms

comp cams high energy RRs are a nice budget option
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Old Nov 7, 2023 | 07:50 PM
  #6  
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Re: rocker arms

You people and your exotic alloys, anti-friction stuff, and custom lengths are just complicating things. My rocker arms have lasted a lot longer than the majority of all those "special" types, and are made entirely of wood. Estimating the ratio is a little difficult, however.


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Old Nov 7, 2023 | 08:36 PM
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Car: 88 Camaro
Engine: L98 350
Transmission: 700r4
Re: rocker arms

And double check that if you do buy roller rockers they'll with the center bolt rocker covers and self align if needed.
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