I recently replaced the valve stem guide seals and torqued the rocker arm nuts to specs but have a rocker arm with a slight "tap". The 302 I have has the rocker arm studs that have the Shoulder that the rocker arms bottom out on and then the nut is torqued to 18-20. When replacing the seals and removing the springs, I noticed that some of the valve stems had a metal cap and some didn't. I'm not sure what these metal caps are called but I'm thinking they can be for adjusting the slack in the rocker arms as needed since the nut bottoms out on the stud. What are they called and where can I order them?
They go on the exhaust valves - called a VALVE LASH CAP If you have an old school engine builder in your neighborhood he probably has a draw full of them. Otherwise I know of one place that has them. Silver Seal http://www.silver-seal.com/product/6510/Ford-Lash-Cap-Ford-302-351W-1969-77.html
After the shop did the valve job on my heads, I had to go to the junkyard to raid a bunch of these caps off of another car. Knuckleheads lost all of mine....
This place is worth it's weight in gold. I've had every question answered and it's all been very helpful. Thanks everyone.
On my most recent engine build, I needed them on exhaust valves, and bought a set of 16 for like $15 bucks or so, from a high-end engine machinist. Yep...had a drawer full of them. Be sure to bring one with you from your current engine. They are made to have different sized tops, so they will need to be measured and matched to what you are currently using.
Well the "tapping" sound finally went away after test driving it after installing an oil pump, carb and new gaskets. Wasn't shifting out of 1st or 2nd. Found the problem...the tranny wasn't connected to the correct vacuum line. Duh. It took a "redneck" mechanic to find the prob. Shifts great again. Installing a electric radiator fan and a 160 thermo. Bring the temp down to norm.
