Vintage Mustang Forums banner

Valve Lash on a 302

858 views 2 replies 3 participants last post by  camachinist  
#1 ·
What is the proper way to set valve lash on a 302. Really the question im wondering is it like a chebbie, eliminate play in the push rod, then quarter-half turn? BTW it is a hydraulic lifter flat tappet cam.

Also, if it matters, instead of using some confusing degree method, I just bump the motor til the pushrod is in its depressed position, then tighten. Anything wrong with this on a ford?

Don't some 302's have non adjustable valve trains, this one appears to be adjustable, but I want to make sure. Thanks guys.


--Ryan
 
#2 ·
The rocker studs that have a smaller diameter threaded part (5/16"), a step, then a larger diameter (3/8"), you have positive stop rockers.

If your rocker studs are the same diameter (3/8) the length of the stud, you have an adjustable valvetrain.

Crane and Comp Cams make a kit that convert the positive stop (non-adjustable) valvetrain adjustable.
 
#3 ·
I just bump the motor til the pushrod is in its depressed position, then tighten. Anything wrong with this on a ford?

As long as you know it's off the ramp and on the base circle, you're fine. I usually bump till the other valve is off the ramp and lifting and then adjust (care is needed with a racing cam with long overlap when adjusting the exhaust to be sure the intake has opened adequately to indicate the overlap period has concluded and the exhaust lifter is on the base circle). I have a remote starter plug-in on the firewall of the race car so bumping the engine over more (doing it your way and my way requires more rotations) isn't a problem.

In the pits, I could usually run the valves in under 10 minutes via this method (with a solid lifter camshaft)

IIRC, 302's all came with non-adjustables so you'll want to check for that like Art mentioned...

[color:white]camachinist</font color=white>