Rocker arm adjustment 4 of 12 rocker arms are loose and have a lot of play in them

DUSTYRUN419

MEMBER
1999 OLDSMOBILE ALERO
3.4L
6 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
122,000 MILES

After replacing my head gaskets both sides. I am putting my engine back together. 4 of 12 rocker arms are loose and have a lot of play in them. I have checked to make sure the push rods are in there right place and without turning the engine over they are still loose. I have looked this problem up and found only one answer. So far they are saying that each cylinder has to be adjusted at TDC. Not sure if this is correct or not. If it is then can I use the key to turn the engine over or does it have to be manually

1 Reply

SQM

MECHANIC
6,383 POSTS

Hello,

Yes, you will need to be at top dead center in order to properly install/torque the rocker arms.
And this need to be done manually, you do not want to crank it by the ignition.

Those bolts need to be torqued at 14 N.m (124 lb. in.) plus 30°.

I have attached diagrams for your reference.

Please let me know if you have any questions.
Thank you.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-a-cylinder-head-works

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