Hydraulic valve adjustment made easy - Your Engine Guy

How to adjust Hydraulic valves first time every time!

[@davegibson3763]

I followed this guys instructions almost to a T.Only thing I did differently was I went around more like 12, 90 degree turns instead of 8,made damn sure I was on TDC compression when I was finished.When I finally got my motor all put back together it started right up and is purring like a cat,no tapping,no noise.This was one of the most helpful videos I have ever watched.This guy is the best,I wish I could shake his hand and thank him in person!

[@philiph554]

Thanks for your recent comments, I plan to use this technique when I swap headS on my 302 HO…MUCH appreciated

[@bencooper9055]

Jdb🎉

[@bencooper9055]

⌚️

[@oceanhome2023]

If the engine is already in the car do you use the starter to rotate the engine ???

[@justinscott2744]

So this would work on an ls3 right?

[@tammylewis4752]

This guy is AWESOME. Called him up to ask a question. He took my question and was very personable. Even though he did not have to, he took a few moments to have a conversation. Great Guy!

[@fuqutube]

rare

[@llucas2002]

What’s his number

[@arrowwatts1574]

Would say everyone has a purpose plus something to share' with à common interests ' Definitely a plus if someone is willing to learn plus 'trainable'.

[@tracymawer1966]

What town and state is his shop in

[@jamesjennejohn5441]

How to ajust the lifters if the lifters already have oil in them can I do it the same way or do I have to buy new lifters

[@johnnyseadwellermorgan4721]

MY NAME IS JOHNNY MORGAN FROM JAX.,FL. I'M A RETIRED ENGINE ASSEMBLER OF 27YRS. I STARTED IN 1986 I WAS 16YO. OLD SCHOOL ENGINES AND DRAG RACING. I WAS LOOKING UP A CRANE SOLID CAM FOR A BB 454 CHEVY I'M BUILDING AND FOUND KEN'S VIDEO, AFTER WATCHING, ALL I CAN SAY IS KEN IS 1 KNOWLEDGEABLE AWESOME GUY, I DON'T COMMENT OR SUBSCRIBE MUCH BUT KEN GAVE SOME OF HIS KNOWLEDGE TO SHOW AND HELP THOSE THAT WEREN'T QUITE SURE THE BEST WAY IN DETAIL HOW TO ADJUST HYD. VALVES .AS FOR ME A MEMORY OF AN OLD TIMER MR. DANIEL THAT SHOWED ME KEN'S WAY WHEN I WAS 16, SO THANKS KEN FOR THE MEMORY'S AND BEING HELPFUL. I DID SUBSCRIBE. IT'S NICE TO SEE AN OLD SCHOOL VIDEO.

[@stevenlindquist7430]

This looks really easy. It was done with dry lifter. What do I do if it’s a motor that has no been running and lifters are already hard and pumped up? Will this process work on a running motor

[@scenarioL113]

To the younger generation do yourself a favor and listen and learn what this video is offering. Sometimes the best lessons are not written in a book. This is “Old School” and the man is an absolute teacher and communicator for his trade. Thank you. I learned something and it is extremely appreciated!

[@berniceperry8898]

My dad done that to my first car when I was 16yrs old...it was an 84 camaro with a 1977 350sb...fired up second time the engine turned over.. He passed on since and this vid reminded me of him, I thought my dad was the only person who adjusted them that way....good video...

[@thedirtybomb19]

455 olds rebuild here! So glad I came accross this video man! Your about as big a genius as Joe Mondello! Thanks again!

[@paulpierson6128]

I'm 75 years old, just did your procedure on a new engine build. Where were you 60 years ago when I built my first engine. Thanks times a thousand.

[@asujimbo]

Ken was nice enough to call me back about the issue of doing this on an engine that has been run and the lifters have oil in them. He said you absolutely can use this method. The only thing that may happen is some of the valves may be open slightly and the engine could run rough for a min or so but will smooth out. He said not to worry and use this method. That's what I'm going to do on Friday and will let everyone know what happens. Everything worked out. Car started right up. Thanks Ken!

[@paulzaffarano782]

Were you able to tighten each rocker another 3/4 turn at the end (to set the ~ .035 lash) of as Ken suggested? A few of my lifters seemed to "bottom out" before I got to a full 3/4 of a turn.

[@charlescodrey4007]

Have a 396 in my chevelle that has oil in lifters and need adjustment so this procedure works but may run ruff for a minute or two at start up.

[@214Pmoney]

Did you have to take off the intake manifold to this or just the valve covers?

[@hueyrotorhead]

@@214Pmoney you wouldn’t need to take off manifold you can twist rod under rocker his was off for final assembly

[@214Pmoney]

Another question, do I have to lossen the rocker arms all the way and then start this procedure? Or start the procedure without loosening the rocker arms?

[@5355corvetteguy]

I’m almost 70. Been around engines since I was a child. This is the absolute best video I’ve ever seen on how to adjust valves. You are professional and easy to understand. Keep up the good work. Thank you

[@rdegrie]

Excellent advice. Clear, concise instruction. I once heard "If you can't explain something simply enough for someone else to understand, then you don't know the subject well enough." You know your stuff, Ken. Thanks for sharing!

[@jimbohon7086]

Ken, I'm 72 and this was the best engine build block of instruction I have ever seen. Thank you so much and thanks also for this new UTUBE stuff that makes this possible. May GOD bless you all...

[@bryanfonvielle9562]

I've been in the automotive repair industry for 32 years... This is the best video I've seen on how to adjust the valve lash... Big props to you and your technique!!!

[@nadroj3968]

I know this is four years old but thank you for taking the time out of your day to teach others.

[@tommyhopcus1461]

This procedure worked magnificently on my newly built 350 SBC, with a Comp Cams XE268H hydraulic flat tappet cam and Blueprint H8002K aluminum heads with dual valve springs. Note: Lifters were DRY for the initial break in with the inner valve springs removed. Engine fired almost instantly after a minor distributor adjustment. Inner valve springs have been reinstalled and now ready for the final adjustment. Contacted Ken to see if the procedure has changed since the lifters are now primed after the break in. He indicated the procedure is still the same with a 3/4 turn after obtaining zero lash, but the engine might stumble briefly until the valves self adjust, but this is normal. My sincerest thanks to Ken for this fantastic video, as I'm quite certain it has helped many novice, as well as seasoned engine builders. 2 thumbs up!!

[@Studebomber]

Thanks for posting what he said regarding existing lifters. That was my question and the reason I was reading comments. About to change valve stem seals and will give this a go!

[@mlhewett]

Thank you for that reply, it was the exact reason I was reading through the comments!

[@joshbohner1712]

So if the lifter have oil in them like for instance your putting new push rods and rockers on the motor but the lifters have been in there with oil in them you can still use this technique is that correct

[@samstrolia]

Thanks for this comment, needed to know if the procedure changes for a recently running vehicle.

[@samstrolia]

@@Studebomber how'd this go? Have to do this same job and want to verify that this video is an okay guide for a vehicle that recently was running. 89 Vette l98 350

[@craiglovick331]

Ken, perfect example of GREATNESS. I am a ASE Master Tech, 40+ years in this field. I've been working on engine's, transmissions, differentials, vehicle's of all kind's now, and farm equipment back then, and it feels like forever now. My dad had me re-ringing/bearings small engines by 7-8, pulling out and putting syncro's and re-bearing 3/4 speed transmissions when I was about 12. Dad, he was ole school, adjusting valves his way. Well we mostly had V-8 cars and trucks, so I found my way around them pretty good. Your build in this video, 327ci double hump heads, YA, on my engine stand, going in a 65 K10 in my shop this week. Back about 1972, using a damn old jig saw, I cut the top of the valve covers open, cut my hand on the sharp edges, bend the lid up, to adjust the valves while it was running. Not such as big of a mess than doing it with no valve covers. He thought that was pretty clever. Fast forward, I was checking on here to HOPEFULLY find and easier way to everyone's headache, or refresh my memory. Cam, lifters, heads going on tomorrow night, then it goes in Tues night. Your video, SUPERBLY DONE, totally makes sense. Thank you for the easiest and most effective way I have ever seem.

[@rcragemoddingenjoyingrcveh417]

Yes sir confirmed what I knew and added some things I did not know good job my friend

[@jameswallace7351]

I was thought to adjust the valves with the engine running definitely a mess doing it that way I'm getting ready to pull the heads off of my 302 to check some things out someone else built the engine before I got the car it's in I definitely will adjust the valves the way he just showed us

[@OGSHAKER2020]

Hey bud can I do this on a 390 fe with a non adjustable rocker arm shaft. Use this procedure? Thank you

[@tonystipstricks8299]

Something that's been a pain for me for years explained simply and effectively in 22 min. Simply brilliant!

[@torrlowe3832]

I can not stress this enough. You deserve your own 350 Chevy service manual. And Chevy should pay for it. Not only was this free advice. True advice. And very detailed advice. But it is functional advice. Advice that not one single person has talked down on. Look at this. Almost 3000 positive comments. Ken. I hope where ever you are. Beer and babes flock to you like lambs to a shepherd. You’ve given a gift that not a single one of us deserve. I’d like to add. I’d sure love to understand top dead center a bit better and how to install a distributor the correct way through your words and eyes. This is my first motor rebuild. Beyond those two things, I would have never understood lash properly. I can not wait to start my 1984 c4 corvette after sitting for 11 years. 31,001 miles when I parked it. Thank you for getting all of us one step further in the motor industry.

[@samstrolia]

How's the C4 project going? got an 89 myself. Fun little cars, thats for sure

[@JESSE__OWENS]

This way is the way. I have tried all different types of techniques and this one did it. No noise, no popping and baning. Thank you.

[@nancyhoralia]

Excellent video! I am 61 years old and this is by far the easiest way I have ever seen rockers adjusted. I've got to do the Vortec on my GMC Sierra this weekend. But I am not dreading this part anymore. In fact I am looking forward to it so I can show my grandson something new. Thank you and a thumbs up.

[@IRONHORSE427RACING]

I have been building Chevrolet Engines since my teens and am now in my late 50's and the way this is explained is the absolute best I have ever seen or heard. I found out how to do this by trial and error years ago and as most of us old guys who have discovered this can say....it's much better to see and hear FIRST than to have to go thru all the mess and pain in the butt of doing it the other way. Thanks Ken....

[@OGSHAKER2020]

Hello hey bud I hve 390 Fe . Witn a nonadjustable rocker arm shaft. Can I use this method..or ?? Thank you!

[@cruzenoob1422]

Dude, I was overthinking so much after removing my rocker arms on how to adjust them, but this method is so easy and you don't have to worry about anything, AMAZING !

[@AaRonation]

You are awesome friend, I've never really understood any of this valve stuff until now. And with this information I've been able to build an engine myself without having to get help from other people from my valves tapping all over the place, not staying tight and the engine stalling and running rough. So thank you a lot. Keep doing what you're doing, you're a life saver! Best valve adjustment video on here.

[@cplmackk1]

Great video man I've never seen valve adjustment done that way but it makes total sense! I'm gonna try that on my next build. You need to make more videos man don't let that 30+ years of experience disappear.

[@ellisonsmachineshop-youren4268]

I have many videos on Facebook at Ellison's Machine Shop. I will be having a lot more content uploaded to KZbin soon. Thanks for following!

[@aksgarage3230]

@@ellisonsmachineshop-youren4268 I do mine close to that but only when the lifter is down.

[@jamiewilliams9974]

Yes!!!!

[@supersportimpalass]

@@aksgarage3230 thank God finally someone with a brain

[@codered5431]

Ellison Empire thanks man this seems easy enough ill try do my own valves

[@vincenthoke8302]

I had to replace my cam and lifters in a 350 small block and while I was in there, I added roller rockers. I followed this valve adjustment process to a T and my engine started after one crank. Trust his process because it worked like a champ. Thanks for the help.

[@bradleyryan1230]

This is a huge help for people like me who are learning to do this as a hobby with no one to teach them. Thank you i love building my hotrods and fixing my own vehicles but there is still a lot i need to learn.

[@mattmgeisey6680]

This is my 1st time install new Cam and and more. I did exactly what you said and it started the 1st time . Sounded great tuned my carb now has nice idle with new cam. Fires off every time. Your method proved 👌 👏. Thank you.

[@hankschrader149]

Nice!

[@doc1469]

Wow I Thank God for your video. This is my very first time every working on an engine and of course I chose my 03 chevy tahoe lt with a 5.3 engine To work on. With no real Mechanical knowledge othe than what I've learned from KZbin. Trying figured out why my RPMs were run low. I came to the conclusion, that it must a compression problem. Made me think of replacing all that gaskets and seals. Which I came to find that i had three popped bolts on my exhaust manifold, as I was working on removing the head to replace the gasket. All the while wondering how in the world am I going to get this all back together without screwing it up. Then Boom, your video pops up. Your right those other methods are way to complicated and time consuming. Coming across you video allowed me to see the light at the end of the tunnel. I'm honored to be learning timeless knowledge and wisdom from a wise gent like yourself. Definitely looking forward to more of your videos brother as I need all the help and knowledge i can get. Thank you. Peace and blessing.

[@robertdavis6708]

I tried this procedure on a 302 Ford Bronco. Really impressed me how quiet the engine was at start up. Wish I had seen this video 30 years ago. Thanks Ken for thinking out of the box.

[@cucknores]

Just about to do this on my own bronco lol 351. glad it worked so well!

[@sandylake304]

Following this procedure now for my first SBC rebuild. And finally, someone who says "oil galley" and not "oil gallery"! Thanks!

[@scotts24]

Hands down one of the most helpful guides I’ve found in my life. Valvetrain no longer scares me. When I was a kid, I had a mechanic adjust my valves for me on my 350 s10 on his way home one day after work. He made a snide comment that people who don’t know how to do this stuff shouldn’t have these things. 20+ years later, I still think of that day. Had he beed a good person, he would have offered to do it, but only if I would help him so he could show me how to do it. I was a kid, and eager to learn. Hindsight, I could have asked to be taught. I’ve done several motors now this way, and zero issues. Heck, I taught my dad how to do valve adjustments with this guide. Watch this whole video. No skipping. Thank you Ken.

[@dick4042]

Ive done 2 motors your way now. Both sound mint. Thanks for sharing this bro!

[@pimpovic2]

Good feedback for those of us searching for correct information. Thanks Dick!

[@jameswinkenwader5839]

Hey Ken, I’d like to start out by saying I’m 28, and I dig that 327 just as much as the hot 350 I built and the 383 in the pickup I just bought. I started wrenching the wrong way early in high school, and started doin it the right way a few years ago. I gotta say, out of all the valves I’ve lashed, I never would have thought of this method, it’s genius. So thank you very much for the lesson, I’m gonna go watch the rest!

[@tjabdon606]

I have learned more in this video than ever. You literally are a awesome teacher

[@ejc491]

I have never before done a top end job. I used your method for my 1972 Ford LTD 351w. It worked perfectly. Thanks so much!!!

[@thomasbeck9075]

This makes more sense than anything I ever seen. You are a good mechanic. Thanks for sharing this video

[@chadknapper8774]

That cool

[@magnusharmon1933]

This is a very simple easy method of adjusting hydronic lifter. Very excellent job and you makes it very easy for me. I have been having a hard time adjusting the valve lash on my pontiac using the other method where rotate the engine until you see the intake rise and close and exhaust start to move. That method wouldn't work for me. Thanks to you Sir for introducing your method.

[@TimRKeown]

Hands down the best valve adjustment video on youtube!!!

[@thomasbeck9075]

I agree

[@jimblack120]

easy peasy @ NOT under the hood ...... do U 2 TUBS get IT

[@ataylor3666]

It might be the best one you've seen so far, but he's still not doing it right. Here's the right way. I worked for GM for 30 years on designing heads. I'm not going to type all of it again but here it is copied and pasted from the post I wrote on his video. You'll know this is correct because it will make more since than his. I HATE TO BUST YOUR BALLS, BUT YOU'RE ONLY DOING IT HALF RIGHT WHICH MEANS YOU'RE WRONG. DON'T TAKE MY WORD FOR IT, GO GET A CHEVROLET SHOP MANUAL, THE ONE ONLY THE DEALERSHIPS GET, BACK IN THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT, THAT'S WHERE THE INFO I'M ABOUT TO TELL YOU COMES FROM. YEA, THE PEOPLE WHO INVENTED THE THING. YOU START WITH NUMBER 1 CYLINDER, ON THE COMPRESSION STROKE, PISTON AT TOP DEAD CENTER, OR ALL THE WAY UP AND MAKE SURE IT'S THE COMPRESSION STROKE. BOTH VALVES ARE CLOSED ON THE COMPRESSION STROKE AND ON THE LOWEST PART OF THE CAM. YOU SPIN THE PUSH ROD ON BOTH VALVES ON THAT CYLINDER ONLY AND GET THEM TO ZERO LASH LIKE YOU'RE DOING IN YOUR VIDEO AND THEN YOU STOP. YOU'VE GOT THAT PART RIGHT. NEXT, YOU SPIN THE MOTOR A QUARTER TURN, THIS PUTS THE NEXT PISTON THAT FIRES, AT TOP DEAD CENTER, WHICH ON MOST CHEVY MOTORS WOULD BE NUMBER 8, YOU SPIN THOSE PUSH RODS UNTIL YOU REACH ZERO LASH THEN STOP, TURN THE MOTOR ANOTHER QUARTER TURN AND ADJUST CYLINDER NUMBER 4, EACH TIME YOU TURN THE MOTOR A QUARTER TURN, IT BRINGS THE NEXT PISTON TO FIRE, UP TO THE TOP AND YOU GO RIGHT DOWN THE FIRING ORDER UNTIL YOU'VE DONE THEM ALL 1-8-4-3-6-5-7-2. HYDRAULIC LIFTERS HAVE A HUNDRED THOUSANDTHS TRAVEL IN THEM, SO THE NEXT THING YOU DO IS GO BACK AND TURN THE ADJUSTMENT NUT ON ALL 16 VALVES, ONE WHOLE TURN. YOU DON'T HAVE TO SPIN THE MOTOR TO DO THIS, JUST DO ONE FULL TURN ON ALL OF THEM. THIS PUTS THE LIFTER HALF WAY INTO THE TRAVEL DISTANCE, 50 THOUSANDTHS AND THAT MY FRIEND IS THE MOST ACCURATE AND PRECISE WAY ITS DONE BY THE PEOPLE THAT INVENTED THE SMALL BLOCK AND BIG BLOCK ENGINES. ANYONE WHO READS THIS SHOULD KNOW IT MAKES MORE SINCE THAN THE SLOPPY WAY YOU'RE DOING IT. IF YOU WANT TO KNOW THE CORRECT WAY TO DO SOMETHING, GO TO THE PEOPLE WHO MADE IT AND GET ONE OF THEIR BOOKS AND WHAT YOU'LL FIND OUT IS MOST PEOPLE REALLY THINK IN THEIR HEART THEY ARE RIGHT AND ARE SINCERE ABOUT IT, LIKE THIS GUY, AND HE REALLY MEANS WELL, BUT HE'S WRONG AND IF HE READS THIS, AND HE REALLY WANT'S TO DO IT THE RIGHT WAY, HE'LL CORRECT HIS VIDEO.

[@jimblack120]

U STILL BROKEN DOWN a taylor ... I am NOT going give RACE secret > for free FUK t you whiTE man haters .. your > < MATH SUCKS @ Valve good Grief ..

[@stevewinter7680]

Greatly Agree with Tim

[@robertclymer6948]

After watching this great video again 6 months later, I have come to the conclusion It is well worth the time pulling off the intake to do this. Thanks Ken, Makes much more sense this time around.

[@jameshester1450]

If you understand overlap none of it is an issue it can be done dry without running the engine with the overlap method it works on any engine 246 or 8 cylinder

[@Timmytownhouse]

I’m wondering if you can do it without removing the intake ? You can still “feel” the pushrod. Thoughts ?

[@johnton5656]

@@Timmytownhouse Yeah, on the engine I am working on currently, you would be able to grab the very top of each pushrod without removing the intake - - but ... if the intake is not off, doesn't that imply that the lifters would be full of oil (having been in a running condition)?

[@aarongriffin-sd3om]

you can just tell when someone knows what they're talking about and portrays that confidence. thanks a million! this is exactly what i needed to come across

[@TBullCajunbreadmaker]

Hey Ken, I'm 65 years old and I've been a mechanic all my life since the first time I changed the spark plug in my first lawnmower when I was 7 years old and my grandfather who was a master mechanic was starting to teach me about motors. When I re-built my first 327 is when he showed me this method. I have also been taught by him how to put together engines without any type of torque wrench. My first introduction to this was watching him put together an old John Deere tractor engine without and torque wrench. He re-built that old motor about 45 years ago and it is still running today and it still does not have any leaks on the engine.

[@chriscrosby6817]

M

[@OGSHAKER2020]

Hey bud was hoping for some help... i have a 390 fe with non adjustable rocker arm shaft. Can i use this method? I also need to set the preload ( not sure if these 2 things are the same. I'm a bit confused please help . Trying get her back on her feet . Thx buddy

[@VladimirTheLeadHead]

That’s the way I was taught by my diesel instructor. He used to always have us working on his race cars in class when we weren’t working on diesels . The man was a genius when it came to engines and he showed us this exact method way back then and I do it that way every time and it’s perfect every time.

[@FloridafishingwithRick]

What about when the lifters are already primed? Can this still be used?

[@jsolo7576]

@@FloridafishingwithRick have you found the answer?

[@FloridafishingwithRick]

@@jsolo7576 yeah. I ended up doing it with them primed. It worked. Which I took my time and went around more than I probably had to.

[@perlav1056]

@@FloridafishingwithRick did you do it i with or without the intake manifold?

[@FloridafishingwithRick]

@@perlav1056 with it on

[@todde269]

PHENOMENAL video!!! My old man was a mechanic for 40 plus years… military. Man if I could go back in time and apply this technique to all the motors we rebuilt over the years. You, sir… are THE man!

[@larrynichols9383]

I just finished valve seals on a sbc and set the lifters your way-it took less time without any stress and it started up and ran smooth right now. I hope this answers some questions about new or wet or dry lifters-it don't matter. thanks

[@efs8552]

An engine builder here in my area told me that but I've never actually seen it done thank you for bringing it to light awesome job . 👍

[@kevinkirby7252]

I can’t thank you enough for posting this procedure. I had to remove and replace the heads on my Chevrolet Express. While in there, it seemed prudent to re do the seals etc. To remove the valve covers you’ve got to loosen the accessory drive brackets and pull them forward from the block. I followed this procedure methodically, and was rewarded with a perfectly smooth running engine and quiet valve train the first time! No muss, no fuss, no backtracking or re doing the work. Thank you again!

[@brianwatkins9878]

Applied this method to 65' Ford 289 and fired right up no more adjustments needed. Thank You for sharing your wisdom and experience.

[@elioselectric468]

So simple, yet completely genius.

[@atomicorang]

Thankyou for your wisdom Ken . BTW you have an uncanny resemblance with John Force. Merry Christmas sir in 2023.❤

[@tommymccollough8518]

I didn't even know how to adjust valves and I really thank you for making it very simple.

[@stevelindsay3643]

Thanks, Now That's A handy Bit Of Know How. I've made a lot of messes adjusting valve lash, rocker arms, tappets what have you and always in a rush when doing it to keep the mess down to a dull roar. This trick will save time in many ways from clean up to assembly and starting the engine after rebuilding the entire motor or just the top end which is key to breaking it in the right way. This applies to simple cam swaps, after lapping valves, etc. 30 years of experience is good enough for me. Hands on experience is by far the best teacher of them all. I've been wrenching longer than that as a hobby engine builder, street strip hot rods. I really appreciate that tidbit of knowledge and will put it to practice soon building a nostalgic sbc 406 for 1935 Chevy Pickup Gasser Drag Truck with Camel Hump Fuelie Heads. Thanks again, I just subscribed to your channel.

[@williamfabiano543]

Where were you 35 years ago when I needed you? I had a 1976 Dodge van customized! Captain chairs, shag rug, barn board walls, hardwood floor, with a beautiful 318 2bbrl with headers and glass packs! I hated taking the "dog house" off to access the engine bay. You jogged my memory.

[@tias88]

Thank you, rebuilding my 305 and the rocker arms were giving me a headache. Very helpful info!

[@shawnp001]

My Stepdad and his brothers were all master mechanics and my stepdad showed me this method years ago I am glad to know that there are others that do it this way

[@doug595959]

i'm certanly no expert but i've put a handful of sbc engines together and i really enjoy rebuilding an engine but the least enjoyable part was always the valve adjustment boing tedious pain in the butt. in the coming months i'm putting together a 78 350 and i am looking forward to using your method. thank you. you are truly a professional and thank you for sharing this wisdom.

[@RL-RL]

I was taught this back in 1987 from my neighbor who had a Top Sportsman car. It's so simple, saves time, saves money, and you don't throw tools trying to adjust them right. GREAT VID!

[@wueyogranational3542]

Love ur simple & smart way to adjust the lifters/rockers ur the man bud thanks for the great tip God bless u!

[@mixedbread1]

What if it had oil? Can I do this with oil?

[@gadsdenviper7149]

What if you're, for whatever reason, taking the rockers out and putting an engine back together with the original lifters (wet) not being removed, such as replacing rockers or a head gasket , heads and so on? Is it still going to be the same process or is it different? With the lifters being oil filled, wont they bleed off/ self adjust from sitting after a period of time or when the engine is cranked over?

[@btfojeff]

And why haven't you shared this information with the rest of us? Off with your head...

[@joecooksey4331]

THANKS A MILLION! I have rebuilt numerous 350 SBCs and have always had hell adjusting those rocker arms. I have 2 engines on stands right now and can't wait to try this technique! It makes perfect sense!

[@thedirtybomb19]

How did those motors turn out using this technique?

[@SnookCowboy]

Followed this instruction as well and all I had to do is adjust the distributor and she's running!!! Im not a mechanic, just mechanically inclined. Replaced heads, lifters , rocker arms, valves, seals, push rods, plugs and wires. Its even running on the 351 firing order. Since it's an F 150 im going back to the 1372 6548 firing order sfter my headers arrive. THANK YOU it was my first rebuild ever and this worked!!!! Temporarily. I have non adjustable rockers. With only 3/4 turn after lash they all came loose after the first fire up or two and I simply went back and torqued the rocker bolts to 20 lbs/ ft .of torque. Tried it again and it ran better than at 3/4 turn. So far, so good. I'll keep you posted. Great video, thanks again!! St as ying on 351 firing order too😎

[@kristravis7749]

When I seen mr. Ellison I knew this was the video I was looking for. Kudos!

[@techi3075]

Best technique ever! Makes perfect sense. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and wisdom. My only question is why am I just learning this now lol!

[@xonsightx]

I did this 12 years ago on my first 302 rebuild and I had some ole school mechanic tell me to do it that same way. Lots of great info in this video man. Thanks you for your time and expertise.

[@poppak2304]

Awesome. I've been doing it like this for 40 years. This is the same way my Dad showed me.

[@mcdonaldm73]

Awesome video! Thank you for sharing your knowledge. Too many builders/mechanics guard what they know and let others learn the hard way. In my 35 years of building, I've never seen it done this way. I'm in the middle of a 350 build now and will definitely give this a try.

[@5300trilla]

It worked out for u?

[@mcdonaldm73]

@@5300trilla 100%

[@juan139257]

Thank you sir. You thought me a very important lesson. As a car guy you never stop learning new techniques to do the job right.

[@HeritageCraftsKnowledgeReposit]

Ive been doing it this exact same way since 1977! You are 100% CORRECT! Important to repeat though, like you said, cant soak the lifters in oil. Great advice! Great channel!

[@jasonkurtz3131]

Painted Bear so if I soaked the lifters in oil prior to installing but have not pumped or run the engine can I still do this method or did I need to buy new lifters and start over?

[@widtrak77]

My gm 3400 has a specific torque rating for the rocker arm bolts so does that mean I just install the pushrods, torque to spec and I'm good to go?

[@georgehgordy1690]

I'm glad you called them double hump heads... That's what my dad called them but a lot of people refer to them as camel hump heads, but to me they will always be double hump heads... Great video

[@chemtechsolutions-petra]

Thank you for this video. I just used this procedure with unbelievable results. The motor ran absolutely perfect with no mess. in the past I always hated painting an engine and then making a mess adjusting the valves. thanks to you those days are gone.

[@TheseBygones]

🤡

[@georgetorres8834]

WOW!!!! This has been a tremendous help. I was so hesitate to start this rebuild on my 455 mainly due to not understanding the cam and lifter adjustment portion and this TOTALLY made sense and cleared up any doubt. With that said I might have to watch this once or twice more lol but definitely feel confident I can do this now. THANK YOU!!!!!

[@midnightrunner684]

455 is a Make America Great Again Engine ..Dropped a 1972 Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser 9 passenger station wagon engine into a 1974 Impala back in the mid 1980's ..400 turbo tranny .3:73 rearend ...That car was a Runner

[@tombentson9693]

Just wanted to chime in, Thank You, Sir. By far the best method, did this on a sbc350 and worked out fine for my setup. I added the 3/4 turn for my final. My engine was ran previously to this and some lifter were still oil soaked, didnt make a difference in final outcome, just have to say OUTSTANDING.

[@devotedanaheim1575]

Had a question for you will this work if lifters had oil in them already ? Im just doing a gasket change and nit rebuilding whole heads?

[@alltime4417]

yes just be sure to follow along with the video@@devotedanaheim1575

[@sar9907]

I hope you see this and answer my question. If lifters are already soaked in oil. Do I need to loosen all rocker arms and start the process from the beginning? As I am planning on changing lower intake manifold gasket soon. Thanks

[@steelbender58]

I put valve stem seals in my 1992 chevy truck 5.7 engine while in the truck. Your method worked perfect! Thanks

[@richardbradford3197]

Man U just helped me tremendously I been watching all these other videos bout to go crazy tryingto figure out which one to listen to and I’m going with you my friend sounds like you got the experience after 37 years I worked beside a machine shop at an auto parts store called Westwood auto parts in Birmingham Alabama and I listened to them because they knew all the clearances or adjustments ,tolerances that u can do on an engine so I always listened to them so I’m going with u ,machinist always are right much respect my man

[@paulhare662]

Interesting, I thought that I had the easiest method for a SBC. I set the timing mark on TDC and adjust all of them to zero lash, rotate the crank 360 and zero all the loose ones, give them all 3/4 turn and button it up. Been working fine since 1974. Your method is probable more fool proof.

[@thedarkphire33]

I'm getting ready to rework my 305. And I wanted a simple way to adjust rocker arms. This video is absolutely genius!

[@guidosarducci3047]

Oh Yeah man! That was "THE TICKET" right there. Best method Iv'e ever seen or heard of in 25 years. I liked and subbed.

[@randycampbell524]

That is how my shop teacher showed us way back in 1984, and how I show my students today.

[@jdcorben6541]

What if liters have been run already

[@markthegunplumber8376]

@@jdcorben6541 do it cold in the morning and turn over the engine by hand if possible. if not pull the coil wire and pump it over slowly so as not to build oil pressure. i did it to my truck this weekend using this method and it runs better than ever.

[@IGM-IOWAGUYMEDIA]

Will this work on my 2013 chevy 5.3

[@dustingore8589]

@@IGM-IOWAGUYMEDIA no. Those valves are adjusted so much different

[@alanmeyers3957]

@@jdcorben6541if you’re dealing with lifters that are pre pumped, stop at zero lash instead of the extra 1/4-3/4 turn, in fact, I prefer zero

[@larrymusk6581]

I take it this procedure will work on dual over head cam engines? I'm installing new hydraulic lifters and was going to soak them in oil and then adjust them the old fashion way. Thank you for teaching an OLD dog a new trick. Very much appreciate your time making the video.

[@LawrencefromIL]

Thanks so much for this video; it's one of the best and most useful I've seen. You're even working with an engine virtually identical to the one in my '65 Impala SS: the iconic small journal 327 with a factory forged crank, flat top pistons, and double hump heads!

[@msomusicco]

I learned how to adjust valves years ago. this is the easiest way I have ever heard of. I'm doing it this way the next time. Great Video!

[@jonathanmoore1868]

Thanks Ken. I just got into a 1967 327 in a 1969 GMC Van. I've never adjusted valves before so this tutorial is awesome. My only problem is that the engine had been run and could hear clacking in a couple of places

[@adammatis5527]

Great video, you have a knack for explaining this stuff concisely. Funnily enough I'm doing this for the first time myself, basically following the Haynes manual but checking KZbin as well. Seeing it done is much easier to follow.

[@rosco664]

This video is so awesome, thanks for letting us pick your brain to learn some new tricks.

[@haroldhirhalin1493]

Thank you, sir I’ve watched five or six different videos. Nobody explained why you shouldn’t prime the lifters before you adjust the valves. You explained why ,the spring at the bottom of the piston in the lifter (thank you.) You made it easy to comprehend .👍🏽👍🏽

[@scottdennis9002]

Built a engine on monday used your method and engine cranked with a sweet peer.Thanks Scott

[@edwingreene7583]

Been doing it the same way for almost 20years.never had to go back to adjust valves.Great video.

[@thomascooper8427]

Can you adjust them like this in motor already built and has oil already in it

[@Cliterfish]

Did you try it?

[@heavymechanic2]

I learned a similar method from Competition Cams 25-30 years ago and it works like magic, I did all my GM engines like this and never had any issues. Forget about those oil clips or making a mess.. I run my valves down 1/2 turn past zero lash and was done, the books say (1) turn and it never ran quite right at that setting and I saw a lot of burnt intake valves on vintage SBC... BTW: 15W40 Diesel Oil has higher levels of Zinc & Phosphorus to prevent wear to the cam lobes, the motorcycle guys use it as a cheap alternative to a specialized oil.

[@WW226]

I do the same thing, even the ol diesel engine oil trick before. However with all the smog on diesel engines now a days, they have to exclude the zinc from their oils now. As it can damage the smog system. Better alternative though, summit racing sells high zinc engine oils in many weights to choose from. I particularly love Lucas's 10W40, high zinc and about $30 for 5 qts

[@TejasToolMan]

yep that how we did it for erson cams but the 40w diesel oil thats what we learned back in the 90's fail safe proof

[@fowvee]

I'm sure I'm not the only one who would have loved to see your pre-oil procedure. Nice video!

[@jackwebb5917]

I’m one of those “older guys” that get wood from a SBC with hump heads!! I love this! I was about to finish the 350 for my 79 Z28 and this was awesome info!! Thank you!!

[@jeremyballin6040]

So Quick Question many are currently and previously asking Mr.Ellison, What if we want to re-adjust our engines using this method you show in video with lifters being already primed ? Is it the same method or even possible without bleeding lifters ? Thank you for your time and reading . Jeremy

[@cfmechanic]

I'm sure it will work just fine.

[@rodfunk2460]

Great video! I was wondering if this method would work for any 4 stroke motor no matter the cylinder count as long as it has hydraulic lifters and adjustable push rods??

[@jamesredruth9723]

Excellent video sir , goes back to the way I was taught when I first built my first couple of engines ,the other earlier ways you were telling about only made it harder and confusing, outstanding instructional videos

[@KINGoTHINGS]

LOVE this! About to do it with my 350 still in my '69 Chevy Area 51 security truck though if had to leave it for some reason I'd leave the wrench on the next valve to be done and also be marking off each 90 I did with notepaper marked from 1 to 8 revolutions and marking each done as I complete them. :)

[@gopro-adventures_7736]

Best video I’ve ever seen to set rockers. Amazing job with the video. Car runs like a dream now

[@melvintuckerjr2450]

Man ! I just wanted to say thank you for this video . I did the same thing to my Chevy 350 . Great video !!!!

[@futilerogue4781]

Hi Ken, Can this still be done to adjust if the engine is already in the car and has been running as the lifter is already primmed with oil ? or is this only for setting it up in a new build with no oil yet in the lifter? I'd like to use this to adjust existing build.

[@robloxiancarboy4627]

Same question

[@respectlife34]

same question

[@stone9485]

Same questions

[@asteriosanagnostou3243]

Same question. Lol, but no reply. Hellpp!

[@donson37]

It don't matter..dry or wet

[@colingan9412]

I followed this procedure and was scared at first, everything turned out right on. Fantastic!!!

[@earlanderson1676]

Thank you Ken for this video. Previously I had set-up the valvetrain in my 302 using the lifter height method you described at the beginning of your video. So I figured it couldn't hurt to spin my rotating assembly through 2 revolutions and check the lash each 1/4 turn. Sure enough I found a few that were loose so I obviously didn't do it correctly. Your simple, error proof method just saved me from having to do a lot of unnecessary readjusting at start-up.

[@jameshester1450]

I think that's a great idea I like my firing order overlap method thank you very much

[@joemeshefski5513]

I've been doing my lifters the old school way for 35 years. Thank you for showing me your way. You have a new subscriber 👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍

[@ellisonsmachineshop-youren4268]

Thanks for following Joe!

[@5400bowen]

You have to take the piston out and to do that you take off the clip, pushrod seat and metering plate, then depress the check ball, slide the piston out(rotating and gently). Don’t drop the little parts behind the piston, drain all the oil that will pour out and reassemble. It worked great on my brand new ones that were locked right out of the package.

[@justinbeaniam]

I am definitely trying this on a 305 I am replacing a cam in. So simple and clearly explained that I won't have to go back and watch this video again before I do it.

[@bubbatron4]

I'm gonna call it the Ellison technique to all I know. Big props to you for sharing an awesome tip!!✌

[@ellisonsmachineshop-youren4268]

I like that THANK YOU!

[@stevenmorris3181]

Stamped Blue Ribbon and officially entered as historical reference: Ellison Lashing Technique.