Knowledge is power, right? Hell knowledge when it comes to engines, makes power so that means we should all try to be as smart about this junk as possible In this case we’re talking about the proper procedure for adjusting the pushrod guide plates on a small block Chevy head, if so equipped. This is not a hard job but it is like anything else. Doing it right and following the proper procedures are where the differences between right and wrong come in.
When it comes to high performance engines, especially small block Chevy engines that use aftermarket heads, pushrod guide plates are important to help stabilize the valve train and if used and adjusted properly, they’ll last just about forever. Misaligned guide plates can cause all kinds of issues, starting with the destruction of the pushrod to pushrods rubbing up against them. If that is happening, there’s an excellent chance that the valve train is out of alignment and then you have another whole host of issues to deal with as well. None of them are good.
So, watch this video, jot down a note or two on clearances and then when you are ready to do the job on your own car, get after it. If you are wonder how they could ever get out of alignment in the first place, stuff can move. We’ve seen weirder things. Also, if you have just purchased a car with a high performance small block in it and want to make a quick check of this situation you are a breaker bar and a valve cover pull away!
