Valve Rocker Arm and Push Rod Cleaning and Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2009 Saturn Vue. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

WARNING: Refer to Cleaning Solvent Warning .

Clean the valve rocker arms and push rods in cleaning solvent.

WARNING: Refer to Safety Glasses Warning .

Dry the valve rocker arms and push rods with compressed air.

Fig 1: Identifying Valve Rocker Arm Inspection Areas

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

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 roller bearing (3)-The roller should rotate freely with no binding or roughness.
- The bolt threads for damage

Fig 2: Inspecting Push Rods

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

NOTE: 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)