Valve Rocker Arm & Push Rod Cleaning & Inspection
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 7 other vehicles, including the 2003 GMC Yukon XL, 2003 GMC Sierra, 2003 GMC Cab & Chassis Sierra, 2003 Chevrolet Suburban, and 2003 Chevrolet Silverado. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- Clean components with cleaning solvent.
- Dry components with compressed air.
- Inspect valve rocker arms for wear or scoring in the ball area.
- Inspect valve rocker arm push rod sockets and valve stem tip mating surfaces.
- Inspect valve rocker arm ball for wear or scoring. These surfaces should be smooth with no scoring or exceptional wear.
- Inspect push rods for worn or scored ends. These surfaces should be smooth with no scoring or exceptional wear.
- Inspect push rods for bends. Roll push rods on a flat surface to determine if push rod is bent. If it rolls smoothly, it is okay. If push rod does not roll smoothly, replace push rod.
- Inspect push rod oil passages for restrictions. Clean out the push rod tube with compressed air. Inspect by looking through the push rod tube for obstructions. A clear push rod will allow light through. Replace push rod(s) that cannot be cleaned out.
- Inspect rocker arm studs for damaged threads, or excessive wear or damage made from contact between the rocker arm and rocker arm stud.
- Valve rocker arm studs with excessive wear and/or damage must be replaced.
- Inspect push rod guides for wear between push rod and push rod guide, bent push rod guide, or cracks.
- Push rod guides with excessive wear and/or damage must be replaced.