Which Pushrod Length Checker Do I Need?

[85_SS_302_Coupe]

I'm about to install some 185s, I know stock length is 6.250 but I'm not sure which checker to get..? They come in a bunch off sizes, I don't wanna end up not having enough adjustment range. Summit lists one in the 6.125-7.500 range...is there any chance it'll end up being longer than 7.5?

 

[A5literMan]

Nope. That checker will be fine. Your pushrods should be within that range. The 11r heads have a little more length than afr's and usually measure just over 7"

 

[85_SS_302_Coupe]

Nope. That checker will be fine. Your pushrods should be within that range. The 11r heads have a little more length than afr's and usually measure just over 7"

Cool. I really wanted 11Rs but didn't know if my pistons would work and didn't feel like dealing with the hassle if they didn't. They were also about $400 more.

 

[A5literMan]

I'm all for saving a buck"or 400 of them" lol. The new renegade heads are a very nice head also. I just liked the "extras" with the 11r's especially the extra ptv clearance on the stock shortblock.

 

[85rkyboby]

11R's.

 

[85_SS_302_Coupe]

@A5literMan or anyone else wanna share your knowledge/opinions on checking length? I've only done it once before and I had help, so I'm a bit cautious about making a mistake and jacking up my new heads or worse. I won't have the luxury of using the special weak springs, so I'll need to get a solid lifter or modify a factory hydraulic roller (what I did last time).

 

[RangerJoe]

I just did my 185's a few months ago. Can't give you and expert advice, but I just did a lot of reading up on it before I started. I tried to keep the sweep as centered on the valve as possible, and keep the pattern as small as possible. I did have to adjust a few of the guide plates to help center up the rocker arm better. I can't remember what length I ended up with.

Joe

 

[A5literMan]

To be honest I also had help the last time I did it. I actually have a co worker who used to be a ford tech. I'm going to have him help. The last time I did it we used the converted lifter and like joe said above keep adjusting until it's centered.