You may have heard about Hughes Engines’ nifty pushrod length-checking tool, but would you know how to handle it? Like any instrument, it’s only as good as the guy or gal using it. Fortunately, this gizmo doesn’t go without good direction from the diehard Dodge guys out of Washington, Illinois.
As in the case with several of their specialty products, Hughes has some real keen commandments on how to utilize their length checker to get perfect custom pushrods. Sixteen concise steps, if followed to the letter, will allow nearly any combination of camshaft and rockers to work in proper harmony.
With calipers, a lightweight valve spring, a dial indicator, the Hughes length-checking tool, and some patience, almost anyone can get their pushrods pumping properly. And lest you forget why it’s important in the first place, here’s what Hughes has to say:
The proper rocker arm geometry and pushrod length is critical to obtain the maximum performance out of your engine. The ratio of the rocker arm can be altered (reduced) if the geometry is incorrect. This will reduce the area –under-the-curve and available breathing time thereby lowering the power output.
The ratio of the rocker arm is affected by the position of the adjusting screw ball (or cup). The small block is the most sensitive to this adjustment, due to the angle difference of the pushrod, lifter, and the rocker offset if any. More offset results in more ratio loss.
These instructions are designed to help you find the proper dimensions for your particular combination and may require custom made pushrods which we can supply.