Rocker Arm Cleaning and Inspection: Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Ford RV Cutaway, 2005 Ford Econoline, 2005 Ford E450 Super Duty, and 2005 Ford Cutaway. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Disassemble the rocker arm from the fulcrum plate. With the rocker arm and fulcrum plate upside down in your palm, push down on the fulcrum plate.
Using your palm, move the rocker arm away from the rocker arm ball and off of the fulcrum plate.

Fig 1: Moving Rocker Arm
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

NOTE: Be careful when removing the rocker arm. Do not lose the rocker arm ball.

Fig 2: Removing Rocker Arm Ball

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Move the rocker off the ball, keeping the ball in the detent of the fulcrum plate. Remove the rocker arm ball.
Remove and discard the rocker arm clip.

Fig 3: Removing Rocker Arm Clip
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Clean all parts with a suitable solvent. Use filtered compressed air to dry the parts.
- Inspect each rocker arm pivot foot and corresponding valve bridge for pitting and scuffing. Inspect each rocker arm ball and socket for scuffing. Install new rocker arms and valve bridges as required.
- Inspect the rocker arm post ball socket for excessive wear. Inspect bolts for thread damage, install new components if worn or damaged.
Install a new rocker arm clip on the fulcrum plate.

Fig 4: Installing Rocker Arm Clip On Fulcrum Plate
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Insert the ball in the detent in the fulcrum plate and lubricate with clean engine oil. Hold the rocker arm upside down in your palm.

Fig 5: Inserting Ball In Detent In Fulcrum Plate
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Press the lower part of the rocker arm against the rocker arm clip, push up with your palm and push the upper part of the rocker arm over the rocker arm ball. Check for freedom of movement of the rocker arm on the fulcrum plate.

Fig 6: Pressing Lower Part Of Rocker Arm
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.