Valve Rocker Arm and Push Rods Cleaning and Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Pontiac Montana, 2003 Oldsmobile Silhouette, and 2003 Chevrolet Venture. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

CAUTION: Refer to CLEANING SOLVENT CAUTION in Cautions and Notices.

Clean the valve rocker arms and push rods in cleaning solvent.
CAUTION: Refer to SAFETY GLASSES & COMPRESSED AIR CAUTION in Cautions and Notices.
Dry the valve rocker arms and push rods with compressed air.
Inspect the valve rocker arms for the following conditions:
- Excessive wear at the valve contact or push rod socket area (1)
- A loose or damaged pin (2)
- A worn or damaged pin (2)
- A worn or damaged roller bearing (2)
  The roller should rotate freely with no binding or roughness.
- The bolt threads for damage
Fig 1: Inspecting Valve Rocker Arm
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Important: Keep the push rods in order. The intake and exhaust are different lengths.
Inspect the push rods for the following conditions:
- Straightness using a straight edge (1)
- Excessive wear on the push rod ends (3)
- Clogging of the oil passage (2)
Fig 2: Inspecting Push Rod
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.