I am 73 and been in cars all my life but always learning from more professionals like yourself. Really enjoyed the video and you are an excellent teacher. God Bless
Mr Nelson was my automotive teacher for 2 years, never met someone else that could explain things as simply yet accurately and effectively as him. Very fortunate to have crossed paths and learned from him. Here I am learning more outside of school! Congratulations on 1 million views, well deserved. You too mitch! -higginbotham
5 days of reading and watching videos and getting more confused and demoralized about to give up i watch your video its like you turn on the light im not working in the dark best teacger man i hate watching instructional videos but gladly watch all your videos thankyou for sharing your knowledge and providing the wisdom to use your knowledge
All I ever done when it comes to adjusting lifters is just leave them as they are I never rotate or rock the engine or lifters all I do is just go down the line and tighten them until there is absolutely no slack at all in the lifters and leave it at that and so far out of all the years that I've been doing mechanic work I've never had any problems yet
@@michaelscott8129I'm working on my 72 Chevy El Camino with a 350 small block. Wanting to check the head bolts for torque since I didn't put thread sealer on the head bolts. I was young and no Internet in those days.
No its not. Theres a better MUCH easier and bulletproof way to get the valves perfectly adjusted to 3/4 preload on the lifter. This guy is WAY over complicating this
I am a retired ASE Certified Volvo Master tech. The 'rocking' method is the only method that is completely accurate, and this instructor is the only video that I have seen that is doing it correctly. Nearly everyone else is adjusting lash on the 'overlap'. I guess doing it on the 'overlap' is close, but not as accurate as the 'rocking' method. Great job on this instructional video.
This man has a calling as an instructor: never condescending in tone or manner, well modulated voice and eye contact, make for a viewer-friendly tutorial. I was looking for a visual to explain this procedure to my nephew, as my attempts to explain it, via phone call, seemed to be falling on deaf ears. This is an excellent presentation for someone like my nephew, that needs a visual aid. I was really getting frustrated while looking for an example of this procedure, as every other video I watched, treated the details of this like its universal knowledge and skimmed over or left them out.
Thank you so much. This is my dad giving the instruction throughout the video. He’s been an Automotive Instructor at a high school level for over 20 years now, he loves it! The world of automotive is dying off to my age group and he loves to keep the fire kindled teaching new things!
You can't change a tone. God made people speak the way they do for a reason. I talk to people all the time some people say I talk with an attitude which I don't see how when I talk to people normally as if I wanted to be talked to because of how God made me speak I guess weak people don't like the tone.
Excellent video; I looked at many on this subject and yours is the most logical and clear. You didn't come up on a search for "valve lash adjustment" but DID come up on a search for "rocker arm adjustment". If it makes sense, adjust your title a little bit to pick up more hits on the search engine. Take care and thanks again!!
Absolutely incredible! The theory, explanation, and modeling of how to adjust valves is by far the best I have seen and has completely eliminated valve train intimidation. Delivered like a true teacher! Thank you for your help and keep up the great videos!
Mitch you should really consider a position in the teaching aspect of engine building...laid out in simple form, I've witnessed my son's turning there engines a hundred times while adjusting their lifters and a hundred times I've explained this method but they're just at the "know it all" stage in their lives so be that the case I just sit back and laugh...one of them will walk by and I'll say I think I heard yur lifters tapping...and there they go...a hundred and one times...lol I've been doing this all my life I'm glad you've given the method a practical title "rock and adjust"...they might listen if I mention rock lol...great video
Homework4.0...... please understand that we are not adjusting valves! No adjustment can be made to a valve that is installed and has been spring loaded. We are adjusting the depth of the cam follower plunger.
Hey Timbo, thanks for the comment, and I teach juniors and seniors at a career center so I know all about that “know it all” comment 😁 Thanks again Nelson
I agree that this method is the best on RUclips! I have been adjusting mechanical (Not Hydraulic) lash adjusters for decades on mostly 4 cylinder import engines. Now my son needs his lifters adjusted on a SBC V8 in an engine I built him 6 years ago. His buddies all have messed with them and they are all out of wack. (I hate those wing-nut rocker arm cover bolts, they scream, take me off! NO! Those are for mechanical lifters & feeler blades)They all had different ideas on how to set them. I have the clip set that keeps oil from spraying while at warm idle running, but this is not practical on all. Now several cylinders are misfiring. I can't begin to tell you how well you explained this, to help my son (37) understand and how much clearer this old tech can show or explain to him and his buddies . They all can take them apart, but putting together is a different thing. Thanks! DK, ASE master tech since 78.
Hey Dean, we get a lot of compliments on this video but I can tell you’ve had your hands on a few through the years and that makes those kind words mean even more. Thanks again and good luck on all of you and your sons projects. Glad we could be a part.
Thank you for this. I've been watching any video I can get my hands on to figure out how to adjust the rocker arms on my 350 SBC. None of the other videos explain it like this one, and with your help, I was able to get my valves all set today. Such an effective presentation- I really appreciate your video!
Best and clearest explained adjustment on rocker arms preload and valve lash adjustment. So much thinking and confusion and over thinking. And after this video it's the easiest thing. Keep up the good work and Thank you.
Hey Trans Am, thank you for the comment and the kind words 👌 Glad we could be a part of your projects. We have a 98 Trans Am at our shop as well. 500HP LS 6speed. 😎
@@mitchnelsonperformance yes very interesting 🤔 you know I had a friend long ago - showed me how to adjust the Rocker arms - he had 2- valve covers cut Long ways - so he could adjust while Engine was running ! No oil spilling at all ! Adjusted till the tapping Quit 😳 what are your thoughts on that Mr. Nelson ?
Hey Jimmy, I’ve seen that method too, but the big concern is trying to hear that specific rocker while all of them are tapping and also just how much preload you’re really getting on the lifter cup. Thanks for the question and commenting! Nelson
Carl, please understand that we are NOT adjusting valves. (that is a misnomer). With a mechanical camshaft, we set the clearance between the rocker arm tip and the valve stem. With a hydraulic camshaft, we set the depth of the cam follower's (aka lifter) plunger. As I mentioned earlier, once a valve has been installed, the spring fitted, retained and clipped, there is no valve adjustment that can be made. Reply
I love the way you have shown people how to adjust the rocker amrs and set the preload on the lifter, by far your way is the best and easiest, thank you sir for your help.
F______ finally! I have been looking for HOURS(!!!) for a video that showed that the guy doing it, understood the fact that at TDC, for each cylinder, WAS NOT where the valve should be adjusted(!!!!). I knew that was an issue when I adjusted my valves on my 99 Ranger ( 3.0 ), but I couldn't figure out where that would be correct in the cycle, and almost did it the same way I did it last time (which would have caused damage AGAIN, although I don't want to explain more than that). But let me just say thank you for such a clear and well articulated video, on such an important part of the assembly, that is, for some reason, left out of the other ones I watched. I will definitely be hitting the subscribe button in a few minutes, something I don't usually do on ANY videos I watch. Thanks again, and keep up the good work!
Hey Pete, really appreciate the kind words! And subscribing! We plan to do more engine instructional videos soon. Glad we could be a part of your projects. Nelson
You are a great teacher. Fantastic video with good editing and close up views when needed. Nice work Nelson and camera man! I predict you will gain MANY subscribers with this high quality content. Keep it up! I watched the video for a refresher, been a while since I did the valve pre-load (building a Ford 351W).
I'm DED!!! That's dead for real. I have been putting of doing this for a month because NO ONE explained or demonstrated it will enough to execute. You sir, have done just that. Thank you and I will be subscribing for your support.
Hey Mitch, Thanks very much for producing this video it was very informative. I am currently replacing the cam in my classic holden 1969 (Australia) I followed your instructions when adjusting the drive train after replacing the cam and your process worked very well. thanks again cheers premier186
This was the best. Mimics my uncle doing this while the engine was running and would finish before the oil squirting got to warm. Amazing. Never made sense until tech explained in detail...
This video was more helpful than anything else I have came across. With this video I’m ready to lash my valves until I go break something then I’ll be back to see what I did wrong. Thank You!
Excellent job on the instruction for adjusting hyd. lifters. There are a number of ways to do this, but your method is the most precise at making sure the lifters are in their proper position for final adjustment. Thanks for your help in clarifying this needed information.
Best video ever, this company should never loose this guy. He is worth all the money. Clear and precise explanations. Should do a mechanics course online 😂😂👍👍🙌🙌
@@mitchnelsonperformance Don't know if you work Outboard marine engines, but would love a 4 cylinder or 6 cylinder rocker arm adjustment video on those. Maybe Honda or Yamaha. I know Honda have some outboards based on accord 4 cylinder fuel injected engines. Also other good suggestions is tolerances and using the cam checker (gauge) on the cam shaft.
This also lets u find tdc to install dist also alows u to check if timimg has jumped was taught this system in1972 finally some one else knows this too! Good job!
This is a great how to for any engine builder. 👍. I just used this technique on my sbc and i don't know if it's the comp cam or lifters, but the extra 3/4 turn seemed like too much for my application. The lifter plungers were all but bottomed out with 3/4. With a half turn, the plunger seemed to be about half compressed. Hopefully i didn't make a fatal error
Hello and thanks for viewing and the kind words! 1/2 turn is just fine 👌 a range of 1/2 to one full turn will work for lifter pre-load. Good luck on your projects ,Nelson
Just finished adjusting my rockers, went awesome because of your video. Since I had poly locks & can turn the nut with fingers, was to watch the lifter cup move up & down as I turned it back & forth. That way I knew exactly where zero lash was at by feel & sight.
Hello my friend, I want to adjust my engine rocker arm, the reason because I hear a clicking sound in my valve covers, also one of the gasket valve covers is leaking oil so I want to take that opportunity to adjust my valves all because I'm going to be there around the valves so why not try to fix the problem, hopefully you can help me, I have a 1997 mercury mountaineer AWD 5.0L/302 it belongs to the Ford family, it's a V8 engine, do you think it is possible to adjust it myself I just do not have the specifications on how to adjust it properly but like you say by feel and sight it can be done. Would you please explain this method if it works on my car, thanks in advance for your help, if it's possible my friend. Thanks..
Mitch, I apologize for jumping to conclusions. I re did it n it's running great. Not so easy to do all this by yourself in a 78 Vette. Thanks for the education!!!
And with this fantastic video, you’ve earned my subscription sir, thank you! Rebuilding my 305 with freshly milled heads tomorrow, will definitely pull this video up when I get to rocker adjustment. It will now go smooth like butter.
Hey Custom Geek, we appreciate you subscribing and the view and the kind words 👍 Glad we can be a part of your projects. I’m sure it will go smooth as butter😁. Nelson
A Chevrolet dealership adjusted my valves , but they used the old nuts. So they backed off. I used this method when my truck broke down while I was on a road trip. I gauged the threads, runs like a champ!!!
I've never done this before, but I've taken the top end off my motor with plans to change the cam, lifters, and springs...I'd say watching this video made me feel confident in doing so! Great video!
Great! The older Dodge shaft type (non-adjustable) rocker system can be “adjusted” by changing the length of the pushrods instead to get a desired lifter preload if needed. This is also the common procedure on the newer LS engines. Thanks for viewing and subscribe. More videos on the way. Good luck on your project!
This is a great video that I shared with my friend that is not too familiar with hydraulic lifters. Thanks for sharing this video because I did my best to explain everything to him, but this was much more clear and concise.🤠
8 cylinders, 720 degrees of rotation with a 4 stroke motor. 720°÷8=90°... every 90°, 1/4 of a crank rotation. Easy as that! Thanks for the visual! I'll need to check my 1968 owners manual for my 302 4v because I THINK it just wants 1/2, but, can't remember
This made my life a whole lot easier. I watch many videos on rocker adjustment. But this one is by far the best and easiest way I found. Really appreciate the video you gave us.
I have been researching the best rocker valve adjustment for days now because I am so picky. This is by far the best video i have seen on RUclips, or anywhere for that matter!!! Thank you so much!!
@@mitchnelsonperformance your more than welcome sir. If your not an automotive teacher by trade, you missed your calling!! Alot can be learned by you. Thanks again sir and god bless!
Thank you so much for this video. The best i've seen for valve adjustment hands down it's clear concise and no endless rotating which you want to avoid esp on a new build with assy lube on things. Bravo to you.
Agreed, best SBC hydraulic lifter video ever! I was taught 1/4 - 3/4 turn after lash is removed. I never thought about the fact that the pushrod seat can contact the retainer clip if you do not tighten the nut down enough. The rock and adjust the sister cylinder method is genius.
love from Italy. Do you have any clue how helpful you've been to me? such ability to explain, clarity, depth and detailing of the sharing of knowledge really is rare to find on youtube.thank you very much. even the blackboard with things written on it for key concept, keep all of these.
Hello Tiziano! Thank you so much for the kind words and letting us be a part of your projects there in Italy! Thanks for the comment and liking and subscribing! More videos coming soon. Nelson
I am rebuilding a small block 350 and I'm at the point where I need to adjust the valves. I have searched dozens of videos for how it's done. Yours explains the details that I need to be sure I get it right.
There is not enough space to comment on for how you've shown everyone how to adjust the small block Chevy valves. I like many others so needed this. Im going to start on 2 early 60s C10's with small block engines and this was very helpful. Thanks abunch. Trucker Ray ✝️
@@mitchnelsonperformance That's cool. I'm going to start this year on my 1st 2 projects ,1962 and 1963 C10s. Looking ar the Silverado 5.3 engine. Any suggestions helpful. Thanks. Trucker Ray ✝️
Thanks for the kind words and commenting! I see you’re a bike guy. I have a little 100cc land speed bike that we built here at the shop. Holds 2 records. Fun project. Thanks again for viewing! Nelson
I have to do this after i get my new valve stem seals in place (a couple days from now) and i have to do it with the engine in my truck and intake on. Thanks mitch! Awesome video
Hey Scooter, You don’t necessarily have to view the lifters when doing the process, if the intake is on. You can also watch the movement of the pushrod/rocker arms if the intake is installed. You will see them move into overlap (the ROCK position). I’ve adjusted many engines that way. Just keep track of your cylinder locations to keep you on track. You can also use the ignition/starter to rotate the engine through the process but remember it only takes a slight bump of the key to turn the crankshaft the needed 90 deg. It helps to have a friend bump the key while you pay attention to the rockers. Good Luck with the project. Thanks for the comment and please like and subscribe
Where was this video when I built my first motor that makes things so much easier I had hell finding zero lash and setting preload on my first build ... garnet I was 19 and had no help or guidance spent 12k teaching myself how not to build a 355 ...26 now building a 383 for my 92 k1500 thank man great video
Hey Mason, I know what you mean! I’m 52 and when I was 19 there was no internet! 😳 But I credit my skills to a few old guys that were kind enough to take the time to pass their knowledge on to me. Glad I could be your “old man” 😃 Good luck on your projects and thanks for commenting and subscribing. Nelson
I have always made sure they were all pretty loose on install, and then did each cylinder individually. I rotate until one valve is fairly open and take the play out of the other. Rotate again to open the other valve and close the gap on the second valve. Repeat for all cylinders. Then I adjust with the engine running, backing off each rocker until I get a tick, waiting a few seconds for the lifter to pump clear up.. Then I close it down just enough to remove the tick & go 1/2 turn more. Some guys like 3/4. It's easier to me and never fails.
The information you provided, is greatly appreciated, I almost ready for painting the 350 with the heads installed. I have been waiting nearly 40 years for this!! Thanks again 😎
It’s true what they say you can teach an old dog a new trick 😊 great video 👍 Been working on cars for 40 years goodbye old school !! for adjusting hydraulic lifters Thanks
Hey Frank, Thanks for the comment and kind words. I think I would look into the recommended procedure for that Harley. They do not have pistons that are at TDC and BDC at the same time (opposite each other) like a V8 does. If that makes any sense at all 🤯
Every time I watch this video it inspires me to build another motor live this guy highly recommended maybe one day he’ll do an engine build in this channel The way he explains it makes it perfect.
Hey Tony, appreciate the kind words, and we are planning to do more detailed engine build/blueprinting/endurance/performance mods videos in the near future. Thanks again for viewing and the comment! Nelson
50 years ago after adjusting my rocker arms I double checked the rocker to valve clearance engine running and a feeler gauge. If it was too tight the feeler jammed....too loose also not good. When just right you could feel it .
@@davidburman451 I can picture how that could for sure work on a solid lift. And you could just move right down the head One valve to the next while it was running. Neat idea/method.
I was a teenager ...picked up engine building tips from an apprentice GM mechanic that had cut his teeth building motorcycles. The gang worked out of a small drive barn on a farm. It had a chicken coup attached. My brother in law was licensed also GM he built and raced stock cars at the local track. You cant buy an education like that. Weekends would see Nova's...Cougars...Mustangs come up their to receive some magic. MG's were always welcome as long as it had wheels and ran. Still working on shade tree projects doing a mild Ford 5.0 for my 88 T bird this winter plus I have a Spitfire engine I'm just assembling now. Loved your videos
@@davidburman451 I gotta agree, they don’t make guys like that anymore. Guys that truly loved turning a wrench no matter what it “pays” and that’s what makes an awesome technician/mechanic.Totally different drive back then. I started building engines in a dirt floor shop myself. I’ve just always loved anything on wheels and owe my life skill and knowledge to many of those guys for taking the time to answer my questions back before you could just “type” it in 😊
Good thing I watched this ! Almost tried to start my motor by just fighting each one then my stater barely turned motor over and stuck cause too tight . While adjusting
I've never built my own engine and it's something I always wanted to do. Watching these guys on youtube building, making fine adjustments, and getting hands dirty building engines makes me drool :D
I am 73 and been in cars all my life but always learning from more professionals like yourself. Really enjoyed the video and you are an excellent teacher. God Bless
Hey Lanny, we appreciate the kind words and the comment. Good luck on your projects and God Bless, Nelson.
Mr Nelson was my automotive teacher for 2 years, never met someone else that could explain things as simply yet accurately and effectively as him. Very fortunate to have crossed paths and learned from him. Here I am learning more outside of school! Congratulations on 1 million views, well deserved. You too mitch! -higginbotham
Hey Higgy! 😁 Thank you so much for the kind words. I enjoyed that class time as much as you did 😁 Very proud of you too. Nelson
5 days of reading and watching videos and getting more confused and demoralized about to give up i watch your video its like you turn on the light im not working in the dark best teacger man i hate watching instructional videos but gladly watch all your videos thankyou for sharing your knowledge and providing the wisdom to use your knowledge
Hey Tony, so glad we could help out with your project and we really appreciate the kind words and the comment 😁 Nelson
All I ever done when it comes to adjusting lifters is just leave them as they are I never rotate or rock the engine or lifters all I do is just go down the line and tighten them until there is absolutely no slack at all in the lifters and leave it at that and so far out of all the years that I've been doing mechanic work I've never had any problems yet
@@michaelscott8129I'm working on my 72 Chevy El Camino with a 350 small block. Wanting to check the head bolts for torque since I didn't put thread sealer on the head bolts. I was young and no Internet in those days.
2 years later and I ve used your method on my 3rd motor, glad i saved it, and just wanted to thank you again.
Hey JoDo, we appreciate the kind words and glad we could be a part of your projects! Nelson
Absolutely the best rocker arm adjustment video on RUclips!
Hey David, really appreciate the kind words and the comment. Good luck on your projects. Nelson
Finally a good step by step video. A valve springs change video would probably be a help to many people.
Thanks for viewing and the kind words! Valve spring swap would be a good video, I’ll keep that in mind! Good luck on your projects, Nelson
Honestly this is the best rocker and lifter adjustment video and explanation I have yet to see and watch
Ok
The best I learned fast
Agreed!!!
8l
Question, can you adjust the values with the intake manifold still on the engine?
Have to admit this is a homerun explanation for adjusting lifters/ valves/ rockers. SAVED FOR LIFE
Appreciate the kind words! Thanks for the comment Captain 57!
Well deserved
My husband says this is by far and away the best Video on youtube regarding hydraulic lifter adjustment. Thanks N.P.
Maybe Nelson is your husband :D
No its not. Theres a better MUCH easier and bulletproof way to get the valves perfectly adjusted to 3/4 preload on the lifter. This guy is WAY over complicating this
@@Kmecha84 make a video so we can all get a good laugg
@@James_the_Builderlaugg?
That is true, is a really good teaching,
I am a retired ASE Certified Volvo Master tech. The 'rocking' method is the only method that is completely accurate, and this instructor is the only video that I have seen that is doing it correctly. Nearly everyone else is adjusting lash on the 'overlap'. I guess doing it on the 'overlap' is close, but not as accurate as the 'rocking' method.
Great job on this instructional video.
Hey Al, I appreciate the kind words and the comment! It’s always good to have a professional to comment on the video. Thanks again, Nelson
This man has a calling as an instructor: never condescending in tone or manner, well modulated voice and eye contact, make for a viewer-friendly tutorial. I was looking for a visual to explain this procedure to my nephew, as my attempts to explain it, via phone call, seemed to be falling on deaf ears. This is an excellent presentation for someone like my nephew, that needs a visual aid. I was really getting frustrated while looking for an example of this procedure, as every other video I watched, treated the details of this like its universal knowledge and skimmed over or left them out.
Thank you so much. This is my dad giving the instruction throughout the video. He’s been an Automotive Instructor at a high school level for over 20 years now, he loves it! The world of automotive is dying off to my age group and he loves to keep the fire kindled teaching new things!
@@mitchnelsonperformanceexcellent format 👏
You can't change a tone. God made people speak the way they do for a reason. I talk to people all the time some people say I talk with an attitude which I don't see how when I talk to people normally as if I wanted to be talked to because of how God made me speak I guess weak people don't like the tone.
Excellent video; I looked at many on this subject and yours is the most logical and clear. You didn't come up on a search for "valve lash adjustment" but DID come up on a search for "rocker arm adjustment". If it makes sense, adjust your title a little bit to pick up more hits on the search engine. Take care and thanks again!!
Thanks very much for the comment! We will see about adding that to the search. Good luck on your projects! Nelson
Absolutely incredible! The theory, explanation, and modeling of how to adjust valves is by far the best I have seen and has completely eliminated valve train intimidation. Delivered like a true teacher! Thank you for your help and keep up the great videos!
Very much appreciate the kind words 😊
Mitch you should really consider a position in the teaching aspect of engine building...laid out in simple form, I've witnessed my son's turning there engines a hundred times while adjusting their lifters and a hundred times I've explained this method but they're just at the "know it all" stage in their lives so be that the case I just sit back and laugh...one of them will walk by and I'll say I think I heard yur lifters tapping...and there they go...a hundred and one times...lol I've been doing this all my life I'm glad you've given the method a practical title "rock and adjust"...they might listen if I mention rock lol...great video
Yes I agree very interesting thank you very much
Homework4.0...... please understand that we are not adjusting valves! No adjustment can be made to a valve that is installed and has been spring loaded.
We are adjusting the depth of the cam follower plunger.
Hey Timbo, thanks for the comment, and I teach juniors and seniors at a career center so I know all about that “know it all” comment 😁 Thanks again Nelson
I agree that this method is the best on RUclips! I have been adjusting mechanical (Not Hydraulic) lash adjusters for decades on mostly 4 cylinder import engines. Now my son needs his lifters adjusted on a SBC V8 in an engine I built him 6 years ago. His buddies all have messed with them and they are all out of wack. (I hate those wing-nut rocker arm cover bolts, they scream, take me off! NO! Those are for mechanical lifters & feeler blades)They all had different ideas on how to set them. I have the clip set that keeps oil from spraying while at warm idle running, but this is not practical on all. Now several cylinders are misfiring. I can't begin to tell you how well you explained this, to help my son (37) understand and how much clearer this old tech can show or explain to him and his buddies . They all can take them apart, but putting together is a different thing. Thanks!
DK, ASE master tech since 78.
Hey Dean, we get a lot of compliments on this video but I can tell you’ve had your hands on a few through the years and that makes those kind words mean even more. Thanks again and good luck on all of you and your sons projects. Glad we could be a part.
the easiest and most helpful video out there!
Thank you for this. I've been watching any video I can get my hands on to figure out how to adjust the rocker arms on my 350 SBC. None of the other videos explain it like this one, and with your help, I was able to get my valves all set today. Such an effective presentation- I really appreciate your video!
Thanks for the kind words and the comment! Glad it helped you out on your project Seth 👌🏻
The simplest, and well demonstrated hydraulic lifter set video. Thank you so much for sharing your wisdom and talent!
Thank you! and thanks for the comment Cale.
Anyone with any intention of working on their motor should watch this video. I have a 5.9 Magnum I've been waiting to do this on. Thank you!
Thanks for commenting! And good luck on the Magnum project!
I just used this method, and it was the easiest way I've ever done it!
Thank’s Grant! Glad it helped. Working on more videos soon!
Best and clearest explained adjustment on rocker arms preload and valve lash adjustment. So much thinking and confusion and over thinking. And after this video it's the easiest thing. Keep up the good work and Thank you.
Hey Trans Am, thank you for the comment and the kind words 👌 Glad we could be a part of your projects. We have a 98 Trans Am at our shop as well. 500HP LS 6speed. 😎
Great video, well explained. If I had a teacher like you back in school I'd have been more engaged and done better.😉👍
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😢
I love this video I found it by mistake. This is the best explanation of valve adjustment I ever seen. Mitch you are a top-notch instructor.
Hey Carl, we appreciate the kind words! Glad we could be a part on your projects. Nelson
@@mitchnelsonperformance yes very interesting 🤔 you know I had a friend long ago - showed me how to adjust the Rocker arms - he had 2- valve covers cut Long ways - so he could adjust while Engine was running ! No oil spilling at all ! Adjusted till the tapping Quit 😳 what are your thoughts on that Mr. Nelson ?
Hey Jimmy, I’ve seen that method too, but the big concern is trying to hear that specific rocker while all of them are tapping and also just how much preload you’re really getting on the lifter cup. Thanks for the question and commenting! Nelson
Carl, please understand that we are NOT adjusting valves. (that is a misnomer).
With a mechanical camshaft, we set the clearance between the rocker arm tip and the valve stem.
With a hydraulic camshaft, we set the depth of the cam follower's (aka lifter) plunger.
As I mentioned earlier, once a valve has been installed, the spring fitted, retained and clipped, there is no valve adjustment that can be made.
Reply
Thank you so much for the video, I wish you could share more Video on SBC ! God bless.
Hello, we have more videos in the making on sbc so make sure you subscribe. Thank you 😁
This gentleman is an amazing teacher that is the perfect way to adjust your hydraulic valve train.
Thank you for the kind words Adam and great job on the lifter bore video!
This makes me miss class..... love you dan the man
Miss you guys too. Enjoyed that school year.
I love the way you have shown people how to adjust the rocker amrs and set the preload on the lifter, by far your way is the best and easiest, thank you sir for your help.
Hey David glad we could help on your future projects. Thank you for the kind words and the comment! Nelson
Best video ever . Thank you this helped me out.
Thanks for the kind words! Glad it helped.
F______ finally! I have been looking for HOURS(!!!) for a video that showed that the guy doing it, understood the fact that at TDC, for each cylinder, WAS NOT where the valve should be adjusted(!!!!). I knew that was an issue when I adjusted my valves on my 99 Ranger ( 3.0 ), but I couldn't figure out where that would be correct in the cycle, and almost did it the same way I did it last time (which would have caused damage AGAIN, although I don't want to explain more than that). But let me just say thank you for such a clear and well articulated video, on such an important part of the assembly, that is, for some reason, left out of the other ones I watched. I will definitely be hitting the subscribe button in a few minutes, something I don't usually do on ANY videos I watch. Thanks again, and keep up the good work!
Hey Pete, really appreciate the kind words! And subscribing! We plan to do more engine instructional videos soon. Glad we could be a part of your projects. Nelson
You are a great teacher. Fantastic video with good editing and close up views when needed. Nice work Nelson and camera man! I predict you will gain MANY subscribers with this high quality content. Keep it up! I watched the video for a refresher, been a while since I did the valve pre-load (building a Ford 351W).
Literally watching this cause I just built the 351w in my truck and the valves where tapping
Thank you for this valuable information 👍🏽
Masterful explanation it is nice to see a video like this. Sr congratulations and greetings .
Really appreciate the kind words Francisco.
I'm DED!!! That's dead for real. I have been putting of doing this for a month because NO ONE explained or demonstrated it will enough to execute. You sir, have done just that. Thank you and I will be subscribing for your support.
Hey Anthony, Really appreciate the kind words my friend. More videos coming soon. Thanks for subscribing! Nelson
Hey Mitch, Thanks very much for producing this video it was very informative. I am currently replacing the cam in my classic holden 1969 (Australia) I followed your instructions when adjusting the drive train after replacing the cam and your process worked very well. thanks again cheers premier186
Valve train*
This was the best. Mimics my uncle doing this while the engine was running and would finish before the oil squirting got to warm. Amazing. Never made sense until tech explained in detail...
perfect just what i was looking for ---thanks
This video was more helpful than anything else I have came across. With this video I’m ready to lash my valves until I go break something then I’ll be back to see what I did wrong. Thank You!
hey Bang Bang, glad we could help on your project! Nelson p.s. don’t break anything 😁
Thank you sir great explanation
I don’t know about you, but I always love sleeping better at night
Excellent job on the instruction for adjusting hyd. lifters. There are a number of ways to do this, but your method is the most precise at making sure the lifters are in their proper position for final adjustment. Thanks for your help in clarifying this needed information.
Hey Stephen, thank you for the kind words and the comment! Good luck on your projects! Nelson
That's how its done, to the point very clear and easy to follow. Thanks a lot
We appreciate the kind words and thanks for the comment and letting us be a part of your project! Nelson
Best video ever, this company should never loose this guy. He is worth all the money. Clear and precise explanations. Should do a mechanics course online 😂😂👍👍🙌🙌
Thanks Jigsaw! Appreciate the kind words! More videos coming soon! Nelson
@@mitchnelsonperformance Don't know if you work Outboard marine engines, but would love a 4 cylinder or 6 cylinder rocker arm adjustment video on those. Maybe Honda or Yamaha. I know Honda have some outboards based on accord 4 cylinder fuel injected engines. Also other good suggestions is tolerances and using the cam checker (gauge) on the cam shaft.
@@CSJiGSaW08 I will for sure consider that!
@@mitchnelsonperformance 🙌🙌
This also lets u find tdc to install dist also alows u to check if timimg has jumped was taught this system in1972 finally some one else knows this too! Good job!
Hey Harold, true, true! I should have made that info part of the video. Hmmm perhaps a future video plan? Thanks for the comment Harold!
THE BEST VIDEO PERIOD... thanks Crim. You just explain this in general knowledge brother. God bless you and yours
Hey Mark, appreciate the kind words 😁 glad it helped you out. Bless you too my friend! God is too good to us all.
By far the best video on valve preload adjustment!
Hey Thomas, thanks for the kind words and letting us be a part of your project! Nelson
thank you sir for teaching me and clarifying the steps to do this right, I am now ready to tango
Glad we could help out on your project👍 You can do it! Nelson
I have to agree with everyone else here. This is the clearest explanation of this topic on RUclips. Thank you so much 👍
Really do appreciate the kind words. We hope to do more videos soon.
Absolutely fabulous video. That’s about as simple explanation as you could ask for. Thanks so much.
Glad we could help on the project 👌🏻 thank you for the kind words and commenting
This is a great how to for any engine builder. 👍. I just used this technique on my sbc and i don't know if it's the comp cam or lifters, but the extra 3/4 turn seemed like too much for my application. The lifter plungers were all but bottomed out with 3/4. With a half turn, the plunger seemed to be about half compressed. Hopefully i didn't make a fatal error
Hello and thanks for viewing and the kind words! 1/2 turn is just fine 👌 a range of 1/2 to one full turn will work for lifter pre-load. Good luck on your projects ,Nelson
Just finished adjusting my rockers, went awesome because of your video. Since I had poly locks & can turn the nut with fingers, was to watch the lifter cup move up & down as I turned it back & forth. That way I knew exactly where zero lash was at by feel & sight.
Hey Brian, poly locks are the way to go! Thanks for the comment! Nelson
Hello my friend, I want to adjust my engine rocker arm, the reason because I hear a clicking sound in my valve covers, also one of the gasket valve covers is leaking oil so I want to take that opportunity to adjust my valves all because I'm going to be there around the valves so why not try to fix the problem, hopefully you can help me, I have a 1997 mercury mountaineer AWD 5.0L/302 it belongs to the Ford family, it's a V8 engine, do you think it is possible to adjust it myself I just do not have the specifications on how to adjust it properly but like you say by feel and sight it can be done. Would you please explain this method if it works on my car, thanks in advance for your help, if it's possible my friend. Thanks..
Mitch, I apologize for jumping to conclusions. I re did it n it's running great. Not so easy to do all this by yourself in a 78 Vette. Thanks for the education!!!
Great! and yes, I’m sure that Vette was less than fun 😁
And with this fantastic video, you’ve earned my subscription sir, thank you! Rebuilding my 305 with freshly milled heads tomorrow, will definitely pull this video up when I get to rocker adjustment. It will now go smooth like butter.
Hey Custom Geek, we appreciate you subscribing and the view and the kind words 👍 Glad we can be a part of your projects. I’m sure it will go smooth as butter😁. Nelson
A Chevrolet dealership adjusted my valves , but they used the old nuts. So they backed off. I used this method when my truck broke down while I was on a road trip. I gauged the threads, runs like a champ!!!
That’s great! I’m glad it worked for you and congrats on getting it going! Thanks for the comment and subscribing.
I've never done this before, but I've taken the top end off my motor with plans to change the cam, lifters, and springs...I'd say watching this video made me feel confident in doing so! Great video!
Great! The older Dodge shaft type (non-adjustable) rocker system can be “adjusted” by changing the length of the pushrods instead to get a desired lifter preload if needed. This is also the common procedure on the newer LS engines. Thanks for viewing and subscribe. More videos on the way. Good luck on your project!
So much more fun to remove the engine and do it on a stand
This is a great video that I shared with my friend that is not too familiar with hydraulic lifters. Thanks for sharing this video because I did my best to explain everything to him, but this was much more clear and concise.🤠
Glad it was helpful! and thanks for the comment and kind words 👍
8 cylinders, 720 degrees of rotation with a 4 stroke motor. 720°÷8=90°... every 90°, 1/4 of a crank rotation. Easy as that! Thanks for the visual! I'll need to check my 1968 owners manual for my 302 4v because I THINK it just wants 1/2, but, can't remember
Yep! 90 deg! Most hydraulic lifters will work from 1/4 to 1 full turn.Thanks for the comment tankeater!
Best explanation I have seen on adjusting the lifters and rockers.
Appreciate the kind words Bill
This made my life a whole lot easier. I watch many videos on rocker adjustment. But this one is by far the best and easiest way I found. Really appreciate the video you gave us.
Hey Nick, glad we could be of help on the project! Thanks for the kind words. Nelson
That was the best video on lifters, I had ever seen.
Hey Matt, we appreciate the kind words and thanks for the comment and subscribing. More engine videos soon. Good luck on your projects, Nelson
I have been researching the best rocker valve adjustment for days now because I am so picky. This is by far the best video i have seen on RUclips, or anywhere for that matter!!! Thank you so much!!
Very much appreciate the kind words friend!
@@mitchnelsonperformance your more than welcome sir. If your not an automotive teacher by trade, you missed your calling!! Alot can be learned by you. Thanks again sir and god bless!
This is my 1st rodeo & your detailed video was enough for me to grab my tools thx😎👌
Good! Glad we could help and be a part of your project 😁👍 Thank you for viewing and commenting. Nelson
Thank you so much for this video. The best i've seen for valve adjustment hands down it's clear concise and no endless rotating which you want to avoid esp on a new build with assy lube on things. Bravo to you.
Hey Ernie, thanks we really appreciate the kind words. Good luck on all your projects!
Agreed, best SBC hydraulic lifter video ever! I was taught 1/4 - 3/4 turn after lash is removed. I never thought about the fact that the pushrod seat can contact the retainer clip if you do not tighten the nut down enough. The rock and adjust the sister cylinder method is genius.
Really appreciate the kind words!
Just used this video to adjust my rockers after engine rebuild. Thanks for the amazingly simple explanation!!
Hey mdezotell, glad we could be a part of your project! Thanks for viewing and subscribing! Nelson
Great explanation, its ben many years since i done this, a refresher is definately helpful.
Thanks for watching and the comment, glad it was helpful.👍
By far the best explanation of valvetrain adjustment
Appreciate the kind words and comment!
love from Italy. Do you have any clue how helpful you've been to me? such ability to explain, clarity, depth and detailing of the sharing of knowledge really is rare to find on youtube.thank you very much.
even the blackboard with things written on it for key concept, keep all of these.
Hello Tiziano! Thank you so much for the kind words and letting us be a part of your projects there in Italy! Thanks for the comment and liking and subscribing! More videos coming soon. Nelson
Very clear, incredibly helpful! You “rock”!
Hey Steve, thanks for the kind words. Good luck on the project, Nelson
perfect layout thanks Greetings from the Netherlands
Great👌 Glad we could be a part of the project in the Netherlands 😁
Great teaching/demonstration/graphics/camera work. The best I have seen.
Really appreciate those kind words! My son does the camera work and editing and he is amazing at it. More videos in the making!
Great video, great teaching. Didn't know I could adjust my chevy like my vw. Thank you
Hey Duane, thanks for viewing and the kind words! Good luck on your projects! Nelson
This is a fantastic way to accurately adjust your valves there are other guys out there showing simpler methods but I question it in real life.
Hey Anthony, glad you like the video and thanks for the kind words and the comment! Nelson
@@mitchnelsonperformance😅
I am rebuilding a small block 350 and I'm at the point where I need to adjust the valves. I have searched dozens of videos for how it's done. Yours explains the details that I need to be sure I get it right.
Great James! Good luck on the project and thanks for subscribing. More videos on the way soon.
ive looked at loads of different ways and this by far is the best explained way i,ve seen
Really appreciate that! Thanks for the comment Aliano
This is brilliant. My truck engine purrs now. Subscribed!
Great! Congrats on the truck project and thank you for subscribing!
3rd time using this video! It goes exactly as described. Love it! Thank you!
Hey Fernando, thank you for the kind words and commenting. Glad we could be a part of your projects, Nelson.
THE BEST WAY TO ADJUST EASY TO UNDERSTAND..........VERY GOOD
Thank You Antonio
There is not enough space to comment on for how you've shown everyone how to adjust the small block Chevy valves. I like many others so needed this. Im going to start on 2 early 60s C10's with small block engines and this was very helpful. Thanks abunch. Trucker Ray ✝️
Hey Ray, thank you for the comment and the kind words. Did you notice the 68 C10 in the background of the video?😁 Good luck on your projects! Nelson
@@mitchnelsonperformance yes very briefly
its our 68 shop truck. We also have a 71 GMC and a 72 Chevy.
@@mitchnelsonperformance That's cool. I'm going to start this year on my 1st 2 projects ,1962 and 1963 C10s. Looking ar the Silverado 5.3 engine. Any suggestions helpful. Thanks. Trucker Ray ✝️
The 5.3 is always a good choice. Very reliable. We have a 1960 flat bed ton dually also 😁
GREAT VIDEO! I’m getting ready to do this tomorrow for the 1st time on my sbc. Your concise & well instructed explanation is greatly appreciated.
Hey Brian, thanks for the kind words and we’re glad we could help out on the project! Good luck and have fun! Nelson
This is by far the best instructions I have seen! I really like the way you teach this. I am now subscribed. Thank you!
Hey Ron, appreciate the kind words and subscribing! Nelson
So dry lifters? Lubricant on outside of lifters.and under rocker nut?
Thank you by far the best video on RUclips, help me greatly
Thanks for the kind words and commenting! I see you’re a bike guy. I have a little 100cc land speed bike that we built here at the shop. Holds 2 records. Fun project. Thanks again for viewing! Nelson
Thank you thank you thank I'm working on a 350 motor and I needed that class thank you very much and God bless you
Hello Will, thank you for the kind words and the comment! Good luck on your 350 project! God bless us all, Nelson
The best video on adjustment I've seen to daye
Hey Eric, thank you for the kind comment. Good luck on your projects! Nelson
I have to do this after i get my new valve stem seals in place (a couple days from now) and i have to do it with the engine in my truck and intake on. Thanks mitch! Awesome video
Hey Scooter, You don’t necessarily have to view the lifters when doing the process, if the intake is on. You can also watch the movement of the pushrod/rocker arms if the intake is installed. You will see them move into overlap (the ROCK position). I’ve adjusted many engines that way. Just keep track of your cylinder locations to keep you on track. You can also use the ignition/starter to rotate the engine through the process but remember it only takes a slight bump of the key to turn the crankshaft the needed 90 deg. It helps to have a friend bump the key while you pay attention to the rockers. Good Luck with the project. Thanks for the comment and please like and subscribe
Where was this video when I built my first motor that makes things so much easier I had hell finding zero lash and setting preload on my first build ... garnet I was 19 and had no help or guidance spent 12k teaching myself how not to build a 355 ...26 now building a 383 for my 92 k1500 thank man great video
Hey Mason, I know what you mean! I’m 52 and when I was 19 there was no internet! 😳 But I credit my skills to a few old guys that were kind enough to take the time to pass their knowledge on to me. Glad I could be your “old man” 😃 Good luck on your projects and thanks for commenting and subscribing. Nelson
P.S. make sure you use a SMALL BASE CIRCLE camshaft in that 383 to clear the connecting rods unless they are made to clear a standard cam.
You literally just now saved me! Thank you!
Hey Darby, glad we could help on your project and thanks for the comment! Nelson
Super Video. Vielen Dank für diese super ausführliche Anleitung.
Thank you! and thanks for viewing! Nelson
Helpful video, finished a 350 Chevy build.
Hey Anthony, glad we could be part of the build! Good luck on your projects. Nelson
I have always made sure they were all pretty loose on install, and then did each cylinder individually. I rotate until one valve is fairly open and take the play out of the other. Rotate again to open the other valve and close the gap on the second valve. Repeat for all cylinders. Then I adjust with the engine running, backing off each rocker until I get a tick, waiting a few seconds for the lifter to pump clear up.. Then I close it down just enough to remove the tick & go 1/2 turn more. Some guys like 3/4. It's easier to me and never fails.
Yep, I’ve seen a few guys do it that way through the years. Gotta have good ears 😁
The information you provided, is greatly appreciated, I almost ready for painting the 350 with the heads installed. I have been waiting nearly 40 years for this!! Thanks again 😎
Hey Norman, glad we could be a part of your project and congrats! Nelson
It’s true what they say you can teach an old dog a new trick 😊 great video 👍 Been working on cars for 40 years goodbye old school !! for adjusting hydraulic lifters Thanks
Forgot to Ask you can I do this on a Harley Davidson Motor 🤔
Hey Frank, Thanks for the comment and kind words. I think I would look into the recommended procedure for that Harley. They do not have pistons that are at TDC and BDC at the same time (opposite each other) like a V8 does. If that makes any sense at all 🤯
Every time I watch this video it inspires me to build another motor live this guy highly recommended maybe one day he’ll do an engine build in this channel The way he explains it makes it perfect.
Hey Tony, appreciate the kind words, and we are planning to do more detailed engine build/blueprinting/endurance/performance mods videos in the near future. Thanks again for viewing and the comment! Nelson
Great video Mitch! Keep them coming!
Hey 😁 thanks and thanks for the comment 👍
When I was 16 I would adjust while engine warm and running, by ear, this was in 1963, under a shade tree. Engine ran fine on Fri. Night.
Yep, when I was around 10 yrs old I remember my dad and a friend adjusting them “live”. Gotta listen close 😁
50 years ago after adjusting my rocker arms I double checked the rocker to valve clearance engine running and a feeler gauge. If it was too tight the feeler jammed....too loose also not good. When just right you could feel it .
@@davidburman451 I can picture how that could for sure work on a solid lift. And you could just move right down the head One valve to the next while it was running. Neat idea/method.
I was a teenager ...picked up engine building tips from an apprentice GM mechanic that had cut his teeth building motorcycles. The gang worked out of a small drive barn on a farm. It had a chicken coup attached. My brother in law was licensed also GM he built and raced stock cars at the local track.
You cant buy an education like that. Weekends would see Nova's...Cougars...Mustangs come up their to receive some magic. MG's were always welcome as long as it had wheels and ran.
Still working on shade tree projects doing a mild Ford 5.0 for my 88 T bird this winter plus I have a Spitfire engine I'm just assembling now.
Loved your videos
@@davidburman451 I gotta agree, they don’t make guys like that anymore. Guys that truly loved turning a wrench no matter what it “pays” and that’s what makes an awesome technician/mechanic.Totally different drive back then. I started building engines in a dirt floor shop myself. I’ve just always loved anything on wheels and owe my life skill and knowledge to many of those guys for taking the time to answer my questions back before you could just “type” it in 😊
Good thing I watched this ! Almost tried to start my motor by just fighting each one then my stater barely turned motor over and stuck cause too tight . While adjusting
Glad we could help on the project. Hope it’s running smooth now!
I couldn't have done the job without this video. Thank you so much for making this, I really appreciate it.
Hello, first off thanks for the view and the comment. Glad it helped out and we could be a part of your project! Nelson
Awesome video! Thanks for your efforts making to things easy to understand.
Thank you for the kind words and the comment! Nelson
Thank you, I was having trouble figuring out what "no play" meant and I thought I was under-tightening them. Turns out I was over tightening!
Great, and thanks for the comment and viewing!
I've never built my own engine and it's something I always wanted to do. Watching these guys on youtube building, making fine adjustments, and getting hands dirty building engines makes me drool :D
Hey Javelin, just grab a wrench jump in with both feet 😁 Thanks for the comment! Nelson
Thank you very much for this awesome video! This helped me a lot doing service on my Jeep GC Z 5.2!
Regards from Germany 🇩🇪
Hello, thank you for the comment and kind words! Glad we could be a part of your Jeep project. Nelson
I got confidence from your amazing video. I am studying many ohv type for my 6.2 diesel . Thanks helpful
Great! Good luck on your projects!