Okay guys,
I will be installing a set of Trick Flow Twisted Wedge heads (and Trick Flow roller rockers) on my new 289 short block which is being built as I write this. I will be using an Edelbrock hydraulic Performer Plus camshaft and lifters. Trick Flow's installation requires the use of a "solid mock lifter" and an adjustable pushrod to check the valve to piston clearance. Obtaining the pushrod was no problem - my question is this: anyone out there install a set of Trick Flows and if so, where did you obtain a suitable "mock lifter" to do the check with? I dropped a note to Trick Flow as well, we'll see what I hear from them.

If anyone can be of assistance, I would appreciate it. Thanks



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Personally I would use the lifters that you will be using in the car. What is to say the mockup lifter will be the same hight as the new lifter? All you are really doing is determining the distance from the lifter to the rocker. Just adjust the push rod until there is no slop and make sure you don't ajust it so far as to push the lifter into itself. I would think that would do it. That would be your optimum pushrod length.

 

They are good looking heads aren't they?

 

If you e-mailed trick flow you might never hear back. I never did.

 

Man those look good. If you don't mind me asking what did you have to drop on them? I'm looking into getting some when I rebuild my 351W and was wondering what the cost is and where to get them from?

thanks,
pwhit

 

Check with a local engine builder for the pieces. In a pinch you can use an old hydraulic lifter, just dissassemble and fill with epoxy putty or jb weld. For an "adjustable pushrod, you can cut off one end about 1/2" down and thread a short piece of all thread into both ends of the cut pushrod. Check your lift at the pushrod stem end of the rocker against the cam card, and use a little "play-dough", on top of the piston. If you don't have any Play-dough, ask any mother how to make it.

FWIW, I like your combo choice.

 

Good info Scott, that would be a great cost effective way to do it.

You cant use a regular hydraulic lifter to check valve to piston clearance. You need a lifter that wont collapse like a hydrualic one will. Its best to use light springs too, but that is a bit beyond the backyard type to swap them out. So to overcome the spring pressure, you need a solid lifter to get an accurate reading.

 

Hi all,
Just back from Adak Island. I would think a solid lifter will work or have a machine shop spin you one on a lathe. That way we can all use it