How to Install a Stud-Mounted Roller Rocker

Roller rocker arms are a popular modification for older American V-8, V-6, and inline six cylinder engines. Roller rocker arms are usually made of aluminum and are much stronger than stock rocker arms. They also offer less friction because they use needle bearings in the fulcrum pivot and have a roller tip that contacts the valve stem, which eliminates the rubbing action of a stock rocker arm tip. Modern American engines are factory equipped with roller rockers.

Instructions

1

Position the fulcrum --- the part in the center of the rocker that fits on the rocker stud --- with the flat part of the fulcrum facing up. The poly-lock adjuster seats on the flat part of the fulcrum.

2

Place a thin film of assembly lube on the tip of the pushrod and the valve stem. This will protect the push rod, rocker arm, and valve stem during the initial start.

3

Slide the rocker arm over the rocker stud. The stud goes through the hole in the fulcrum. Fit the tip of the push rod in the end of the rocker arm.

4

Screw the poly-lock adjuster onto the rocker stud. Tighten the adjusters so all the rocker arms have play, or clearance between the rocker arm tip and the valve stem, otherwise you risk bending a push rod when you adjust the valves. It may be necessary to use an Allen key to loosen the set screw in the center of the adjuster.

5

Adjust the valves to the specification for your particular engine, camshaft, and lifters. When you have a valve adjusted, use an Allen key to tighten the set screw in the center of the poly-lock adjuster. Use a torque wrench and socket to torque the adjuster to 10 to 15 foot pounds. This locks the adjuster.

6

Verify that the bottom of the rocker arm is not rubbing against the bottom of the rocker stud. Verify that the rocker arm is not contacting the valve spring retainer throughout its range of motion.