Inliners International Forums General Discussion Engines Early Chev235 /216

I have a '48 235 engine and a '39 216 head.

I can make them fit by doing the BIG head job. That's ok , then the sideplate needs a mod so the bolts fit , then the pushrods need a mod etc etc .

So my question is, does someone make tubular pushrods that can have replacable ends fitted? So I can make the pushrods the right length?

All thoughts appreciated.

Crane and Comp used to sell ends individually. I used them to make my own special length from 4130 chrome moly tubing, reamed to the proper ID for a press fit.

Hi Dusty . . .

This combination should bolt right up - side cover and all.

Not sure what head work you're talking about unless you mean milling to eliminate the cup in the head (casting 838773 was designed for use with slightly domed pistons).

You would have to be milling a bunch to get the point that the push rod adjustment screws couldn't take up the slack . . .

regards,
Keith

Thanks for your thoughts guys.

I googled crane and comp and came up with nothing

Can you be more specific as to who they are please. Thanks.

I have taken .180" off the head. I am sure this will alter the geometry enough to shorten the life of those bits upstairs
Hense the need for custom pushrods.

I read in the "Chevrolet Speed Manual" that this is ok , and that special tubular pushrods are available , but , of course , that was 50yrs ago.

Comp Cams, http://compcams.com/DefaultWide.asp

IIRC Crane is back in business, but weren't they on hiatus for a while?

Go to Smith Brothers Pushrods in Bend, Oregon. Absolutely perfect pushrods.

Ron

Wow that's pretty near the max. California Bill say's to mill no more than .187 . . .

Thanks Ron , thats what I was looking for. .

Yep stock49, I'm using that book.

Dusty, See if there is something here for you. Beater

Manton

Well years ago, I used to run 1941 buicks heads with that much off of them and 1948 buick pistons. I had buick pushrods that had press fit ends on hallow tubes. I very carefully [lol] took one end out and very Presisely HACKSAWED the amount I needed off the pushrod-deburred the inside and very presisely HAMMERED the end back in. Ran those pushrods and that head for 5 or 6 racing seasons. NO TROUBLE AT ALL. Isn't it funny how time has changed? I'll bet it could still be done! Your going to love that 235". I would advise inserted rods if you don't have them. Your oiling system will handle it but if you run it hard very much I don't think the babbit will like it. Your having fun now!!!! 1 OL REDNECK

I'll bet it could still be done!

Still is - if the inserts are a tight fit and spring pressure is moderate they will stay put.
However: the factory upper pushrod cup is 11/32", which many manufacturers don't carry (Smith Brothers does, but I don't know if they sell them separately).
The correct length leaves only 1-2 threads (no more) showing below the rocker.