Reproduction Parts for 1916-1964 Chevrolet Passenger Cars & 1918-1987 Chevrolet & GMC Trucks
SHOP ONLINE | ONLINE CATALOG | ABOUT US
I couldn't find an answer to my question in previous posts, so I have to ask the experts again.
I would like to adjust the tappets on my 41 Chevy with a 235 engine in it. I went through a lot of trouble just to find out if it is hydraulic or solid lifters since both were offered. My engine is from a 1953 Powerglide car after researching all the casting numbers and serial number. I had to confirm the question by removing the valve cover and side cover and looking at the top of the lifter for the tell-tale sign of an oil hole in the lifter pocket. Now that I know that much, I found the process for adjustment appears to be different for each. When I owned another 54 back in my high school days, I remember adjusting down to zero lash and turning a quarter more. Some of the advice I found on the web confirmed that this is the correct method and unfortunately, as many said to adjust it to 18 thousands and 6 thousands. So, asking the experts: WHICH is correct. I would really appreciate your help.
All 53 Powerglide cars were built with hydraulic lifters as standard. My service manual said to adjust to zero backlash and then turn adjusting screw 1-1/2 turns to center the plunger. This is done with the piston at TDC.
7472 old site post
@steve-d Thanks, Steve...that's what I thought. So, what's the procedure for setting lash? Steve a second question, is there ANY difference between the 53 and 54 Powerglide engines?
WHICH is correct. I would really appreciate your help.
<CLICK> Your answer starts at the bottom of this page and finishes on the next page.
7046 old site posts
Save a life, adopt a senior shelter pet
There are many good people. If you can't find one, be one.
1938 Master Business Coupe
1953 210 Sedan
The biggest difference was in the lubrication system. The 53 was splash lubricated (0-30 gauge) and the 54 was full pressure (0-60 gauge). Both had insert rod bearings. The 53 valve cover was retained by two acorn nuts on studs and the 54 had 4 capscrews that held the cover to the head.. The 54 engine is the more sought after for retrofitting . Adjusting the hydraulic lifter is in effect setting the valve lash .
7472 old site post
The 53 PG 235 is full pressure. At least mine is. I've been told all PG 235s are full pressure. Is that wrong?
7046 old site posts
Save a life, adopt a senior shelter pet
There are many good people. If you can't find one, be one.
1938 Master Business Coupe
1953 210 Sedan
You are correct Tiny and I have modified my post. The 53 with powerglide was the first to have full pressure oiling ,
7472 old site post
I have always (not saying it is the correct way) of hydraulic lifter lash adjustment is with engine stopped turn down until just remove movement at rocker then 3/4 to 1 turn more, with engine running tighten to remove click then 1/4 to 1/2 turn.
Tony
@steve-d Don't forget there was a 235 for trucks in the '40s, those engines would not have had full oil pressure.
@arthur-p-sell Yes but no powerglide that I am aware of. My dads car was a 53 Bel Air in 63 and i rebuilt the engine and transmission in my high school shop class. The one thing I remember is the insert bearings as the shop teacher was surprised when I got it apart.
7472 old site post
Latest Post: 1941 Chevy AK 3/4 Truck - 4Spd Our newest member: Cody Bryan Recent Posts Unread Posts
