Re: Source For Valve Lash Measuring Tool For 359 Engine

Posted by fredkanter On 2016/12/1 11:53:39

Either you have a bad lifter or a valve sticking in its guide. Spraying some liquid wrench or similar at the bottom of the guide should free up the valve. This usually occurs on cars that have been sitting a long while and are started on old varnish smelling gas.

Valve stem to lifter clearance will change only if the valve face and/or valve seat are machined. It will not get too large or small by just running. The symptom you are experiencing is caused by the failure of an individual lifter.
Either mechanical failure or dirt.

The easiest fix is to replace the faulty lifter, new ones are available with improved design. It is necessary to remove the head and the offending valve. If you have not identified which lifter, remove the valve covers and idle the car.
Either use a vacuum hose in your ear and put it next to each valve lifter or just touch the bottom of each valve spring.

To confirm your diagnosis place a feeler gauge between the lifter and valve stem while running, large enough to fill the gap and it will get quiet.

Remove the head, valve and offending lifter.