broken push rod

[project69camaro]

Hey everyone,

I need some input on what might be wrong with the set up on my 69 camaro.

Last week two rockers backed off their push rods, on the same cylinder leaving one of them bent. I replaced the bent push rod and re-adjusted both rockers that came lose. Everything sounded fine for about 5 minutes of drive time and then my motor started ticking again (almost lost my mind). When I pulled my valve covers off, I realized that it was the same two rockers that backed off and now need to figure out what the problem could be with my set up.

Running a 454bbc, with hydraulic roller rockers.



Also: I was planning making it a 496 stroker this winter..Not sure what kind of a task I might have ahead of me, but Id like to know if its going to be worth fixing whats going on right now or am I better starting early on my stroker build?

This is the first muscle car that I have owned myself and its always been my dream car. Any feedback is appreciated.

Thanks,

Mike

[WallaceMFG]

Does it have stock valve train parts or does it have roller rockers with poly locks? How did the threads look on the studs for the rockers that came loose?

[project69camaro]

roller rockers, no poly locks..they seemed okay when i re-adjusted them the first time but i didnt take a very close look at them. Ill have to check tonight when i get home

[WallaceMFG]

I'd get poly locks regardless of what you find, its worth the money for the extra insurance. I've heard that the standard rocker nuts can lose some of their clamping force from age and being heat cycled, which could be causing them to come loose.

As for why both of the rockers on one cylinder came loose, somebody with more Chevy experience needs to chime in. Most of my engine knowledge has to do with Fords, but I'm learning more since I have one!

[project69camaro]

Yeah I'm going to pick some up forsure. thanks for the input

[MrQuick]

make sure your studs arent backing out too.