Adjusting Rockers While Engine is off?

[jmikulec]

So should the "U" be upside down or right side up?

[jmikulec]

Also, what do I torque the studs to? I've heard all different numbers from 30-45.

[azdave]

The stamped "U" always faces out so you can see it. I don't torque over 30# these days for head studs. Factory manuals don't always agree and there have been revisions so it's best not to use those numbers. Make sure the stud does not spin further into the block or you could have a clearance issue between the end of the stud and the connecting rod. That is not likely with old studs but it's good to pay attention.

[cnicol]

The "U" should be visible. I can't remember if it's facing up or down but you cannot install it the wrong way in that regard. The pushrod holes have to be at the bottom.

As for torque: 30 ft-lbs! GM ran the torque recommendations up in later models but then backed down again. These days the cases aren't as strong as they used to be so we're saying "Test (during engine build) to 35# but torque to 30# for actual use. 30# has been the recommended torque for over 30 years now.

[jmikulec]

I know the stamped "U" is facing me but it is upside down. Is that right?

[azdave]

I know the stamped "U" is facing me but it is upside down. Is that right?

It doesn't matter what orientation the "U" was stamped by the factory. Once the "U" side is facing you the part can only be installed one way. Don't over-think it.

[jmikulec]

Ok, so what could that bad sound be because I have those plates on right? Back to square one.

[azdave]

Ok, so what could that bad sound be because I have those plates on right? Back to square one.

Corvair lifters are famous for clattering. After an adjustment they might make noise for a few miles. Even after a long period of sitting they will clatter until the engine is running for awhile.

If it sounds like a bunch of them are clattering and not getting better then maybe they are not set correctly? As a basic starting point, can you see about three threads showing though the top of the rocker arm nuts after you complete the adjustment?

[jmikulec]

So it's the rockers making the noise. It sounds like a high pitch mixed and a low pitch knock at the same time.

[jmikulec]

And the lifters should make what type of sound?

[azdave]

There are several videos on youtube about Corvair valve clatter and adjustments. I'm just heading out to work so I don't have time to link to one right now.

[Bill MC]

You did it right, the U should face "you" on both driver and passenger sides.
Are the push rods rubbing on the holes in the guide plates?

[jmikulec]

I just put lube on the major slide points on rocker and guide plate. It sounds fine now but I hear the engine kind of going like "vroom flat flat flat broom flat flat" at idle. You know how a really big muscle car sounds. It kind of sounds like that.

[jmikulec]

I adjusted the carbs with the unisyn sync tool and put the linkage on It without tension. Could it be the distributor timing retarded or something?

[funvairs]

Why don't you just check the timing if you think it may not be correct?

[jmikulec]

I will get around to it but was wanting to see what you thought. I don't know this might even be the way it should sound. I have never worked on corvairs let alone any car this old. I am not very experienced.