Throwback Thursday: Understanding How To Properly Set Valve Lash

valve lashWelcome once again to Throwback Thursday. It’s that time of the week when we take a look back in the Chevy Hardcore vault of information and locate a previously published article that you guys might have either forgotten about, or for some reason, might not even know exists. Let’s face it, with so much great content on the website to peruse, we understand how easy it is to miss something. Either way, we are confident that you will surely enjoy this editorial flashback.

When it comes to setting valves on an engine – be they solid or hydraulic type, everyone has an opinion about the best way to accomplish the task. This week, we jump way back to July of 2010, and take a look at an article called How To Set And Adjust Valve Lash Like A Pro.

valve lash

Are you using the proper tools for the job?

In the original article, an inquisitive Bobby Kimbrough takes the time to talk to experts like Scott Shafirof, Pat Musi, David Reher, and Comp Cams’ tech adviser, Ashley Newman. By doing so, our man on the scene was able to get the skinny from these noted professionals, in order to help you be confident that when you do it yourself, the task is properly done. Who knows, maybe there is a better way to make the adjustments than you’ve been utilizing? The only way you’ll be sure is to click here and find out what our panel of professionals had to say, in order to get the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth.

It should go without saying that you probably understand that valve lash is the clearance between the tip of the rocker arm and valve stem tip, but what you might not realize, is that setting a proper valve lash is a delicate balancing act between durability and delivering maximum power. For instance, did you know that many times, a camshaft’s recommended valve lash setting isn’t actually the exact gap where your car’s engine will run the best? Shafiroff talks more about that in the original article. According to Pat Musi, his valve lash-setting tricks begin before the lifters are even installed in the engine. But, again, you’ll have to read the article to find out what he means.

valve lash

Setting the valve lash is not rocket science, but does require patience and a little knowledge on the subject.

We’ve all seen guys that set the valve lash by rotating the engine through a cycle, and then setting various, opposing cylinder’s valve lash as they go. But, is that really the best way to do it? Maybe not according to experts.

Whether you’re a novice engine builder and want to learn a new process, or a seasoned veteran that would like to brush up on some skills, taking a look back at this throwback article can probably offer some information you didn’t previously know, and anytime you can learn something new, that’s always a good thing. So check out the original article, and we’ll talk to you next week.

About the author

Randy Bolig

Randy Bolig has been working on cars and has been involved in the hobby ever since he bought his first car when he was only 14 years old. His passion for performance got him noticed by many locals, and he began helping them modify their vehicles.
Read My Articles

Hot Rods and Muscle Cars in your inbox.

Build your own custom newsletter with the content you love from Street Muscle, directly to your inbox, absolutely FREE!

Free WordPress Themes
Street Muscle NEWSLETTER - SIGN UP FREE!

We will safeguard your e-mail and only send content you request.

Street Muscle - The Ultimate Muscle Car Magazine

streetmusclemag

We'll send you the most interesting Street Muscle articles, news, car features, and videos every week.

Street Muscle - The Ultimate Muscle Car Magazine

Street Muscle NEWSLETTER - SIGN UP FREE!

We will safeguard your e-mail and only send content you request.

Street Muscle - The Ultimate Muscle Car Magazine

streetmusclemag

Thank you for your subscription.

Subscribe to more FREE Online Magazines!

We think you might like...


fordmuscle
Classic Ford Performance
dragzine
Drag Racing
chevyhardcore
Classic Chevy Magazine

Street Muscle - The Ultimate Muscle Car Magazine

Thank you for your subscription.

Subscribe to more FREE Online Magazines!

We think you might like...

  • fordmuscle Classic Ford Performance
  • dragzine Drag Racing
  • chevyhardcore Classic Chevy Magazine

Street Muscle - The Ultimate Muscle Car Magazine

streetmusclemag

Thank you for your subscription.

Thank you for your subscription.

Street Muscle - The Ultimate Muscle Car Magazine

Thank you for your subscription.

Thank you for your subscription.

Loading