Hey guys, Happy New Year
My question is can anyone define "Zero Lash" in detail as Ive read several posts where this Zero Lash point conflicts between indiveduals.

I just put in a new cam, Pushrods and lifters and I need clarification at what point Zero lash should look and feel like as I dont want to screw any thing up.

any help would be great
Thanks

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JCS

Zero lash is:NO PLAY.

Loosen the rocker nut to a point where you can feel play (clearance) between the pushrod and the rocker.

Now tighten the nut,SLOWLY.

At the EXACT moment that there is no play (clearance) between the rocker and the pushrod,STOP.

YOU ARE NOW AT ZERO LASH.

When you are dealing with a hydraulic cam and lifter you should only give the lifter 1/4-1/2 turn preload (turning the rocker nut down an aditional amount) after you reach the zero lash point.

A lot of manufacturers say to give the lifter 3/4-1 full turn,DO NOT DO IT!!!

[This message has been edited by mutant 68 (edited 12-31-2000).]

Thanks mutant 68
Thats a real good discription,

Looks like I need to do them over again because I followed one persons advice and they said tighten until you can no longer spin the pushrod + 1/2 turn and that seemed way to tight, so I just had to ask the Board.
Thanks


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JCS

Some manufacturers use a True Arc retainer in the top of the lifter. These lifters can be set at zero lash and left alone (no preload). This helps HP in the higher RPMs because the lifters can't pump up. If the lifters have a wire retainer in the top you have to preload them because the retainer will pound out if you don't.

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'69 RS/SS396 pro street
427/4spd/9"