Valve Train

Pushrods On G.M. 3.1-3.4 Engines – This Is Where Length Matters

09/26/2025

Exhaust and Intake Pushrods, on G.M. 3.1 and 3.4 engines are different lengths. So, quite often we still see bent push rods and valves, when they are mixed up. Consequently, Exhaust pushrods on G.M. 3.1 […]

Valve Springs Can Cause, Floating Valves and Pumped Up Lifters

03/26/2025

Valve Springs, have a very basic job, but how they do it, is very important. By the time they have 100,000 miles on them, they have probably lost up to 10%, of their tension. The […]

Automotive Engine Valves: Function, Failure, and Testing

02/20/2025

The main function, of automotive engine valves, is to let air in and out of the cylinders. Above all, the valves in your cylinder head, are a vital part of your engine and undergo, enormous […]

Listening for Valve Train Noise Under Hood

Valve Train Noise – Where Is It Coming From ? – Is It Bad ?

03/09/2024

Valve train noise, is usually due to excessive clearance, between two internal engine parts. Each valve utilizes, a valve spring that returns it to its, original closed position. So, if a valve spring has broken […]

Valve Lash – Getting All The Facts For Setting And Adjustment

01/26/2024

The term “valve lash” is often used when talking about, valve train adjustment. A valve lifter follows the contour of the camshaft lobe, and transfers that motion to open and close the valves. (sometimes referred […]

Rocker Arms Dislodging – Along With Valve Seats Falling Out

01/23/2024

Rocker arms dislodging on certain engines, is a common problem and is usually misdiagnosed. So, a customer comes in and complains of a poor running engine. After diagnosing it, you find engine misfire codes. And, […]

Interference Non-Interference Comparison

Interference Or Non Interference Engines, Timing Is Everything

12/19/2023

So, the term, interference or non-interference engine, makes a big difference, if you ever have a timing problem. And, if you ever have a broken timing belt or chain !! The cost of repairs for […]

Engine Noises – Where Are They Coming From – Are They Bad

12/07/2023

So, with a little practice, you can gain the experience and knowledge to know, what engine noises mean. You should always take the extra time, to make a proper noise analysis, before doing any engine […]

Valve Lash Setting – Top End Ticking Noise, Usually The First Sign

11/22/2023

Valve lash setting, is something most drivers, don’t even think about. First, you need to know, if you even have an adjustable valve train, for valve lash setting. In most cases, you will not have […]

Valve Guide Wear – How To Identify and Reduce Oil Consumption

10/27/2023

Valve guide wear, refers to excessive clearance, between valve stem and valve guide. As valve guides wear, the side to side movement, can cause valves to seat improperly. Valve leakage, causing compression loss, is another […]