Rocker Arm Studs

[Clem Z.]

Re: PS/PS/PS

when installing new ball pivot rocker arms coat the balls with cam shaft breakin compound to prevent gaulling of the ball/rockerarm till the oil flows freely.

[Craig S.]

Re: PS/PS/PS

As usual...thx Clem! I was aware these were still avaiable, I saw them on gmpartsdirect.com also, I don't recall how the price compares to the flatheadracing site you mention. They were the units I planned to install. I was still curious about the SB units discussed in this thread, what controls the rotation where the guideplates don't matter? Also, I do have 19 original GM NOS grooved rocker balls I bought at Carlisle this year from a guy that had them laying around since the 70's. I forget the P/N, but I believe they are in bags of 5 and 3 are sealed, and 4 are loose. I assumed the grooved balls would be the best way to go with the rocker arms vs the current parts which are not, allowing better oiling. Thx!...Craig

[Clem Z.]

Re: PS/PS/PS

the small block self aligning rockers have a groove in the valve stem end that the valve tip runs in to prevent the rocker from moving sideways. this idea was first used by ford as it saves money by eliminating the need for the guide plates

[Clem Z.]

Re: PS/PS/PS

i would guess the reason the new ones do not have the grooves is to increase the area of the surface of the ball because the grooved one did have a tendency to wear. i have not used the stock rockers on a BB since the early 70s. if i was building a street BB i would use the comp cams investment cast stainless steel roller rockers because of the lowering of the oil temp plus they are easier on the valve guides.they may not fit under the stock rocker covers.

[Craig S.]

Re: PS/PS/PS

Thx again Clem. Actually, I am familiar with the comp cams rockers....I have a new crate LS6 (circa 1989) in the garage, with GM aluminum C port heads, and have the Pro Magnum rockers installed, and they have GM dripper covers installed, but, I supect the 66 version of the covers with the large PB booster dent won't clear. Thx again for the great advice as always!....Craig

[Craig S.]

Re: PS

Clem - thx, at gmpartsdirect.com they are $61.12 for the set, with shipping to door the total is $73.62. Thx for the tip...Craig