Testing springs

[orgnl70]

I want to "clay" my FE to check for valve train interferences. Since I am running hydraulic lifters and non adjustable stock rockers, I need to change out the springs so I am not compressing the lifter. What do I use and where  do I get them?

[thatdarncat]

There are a few varieties available from Summit, Jegs, etc. I think these are what I have:

http://www.jegs.com/i/COMP-Cams/249/4758-2/10002/-1

At the time I bought them Jegs was having free shipping on everything, now it's a higher limit. Local auto parts stores should be able to get them too.

Seems I've heard of people using the FE rocker shaft spacer springs as well, but I've never tried that.

[scott foxwell]

Haven't used them but the springs that go between rockers on the FE shaft system look like they would be good checking springs.

[Phil Brown]

Orbit or Rainbird 1800 pop-up lawn sprinkler take the spring out and cut it in 1/2 and you got two   

[steinauge]

Please note that when the valve hits the clay you will compress the spring in a dry lifter.Take two old lifters, empty them out and replace the piston and spring with a spacer cut to give you about zero to .005" lash.This is very easy to do and has served me well for better than 50 years .Alternately you can make an adjustable pushrod and set your dry hydraulic for zero lash.Either method is satisfactory.

[machoneman]

Try a hardware store for light, near same diameter, springs. Steinuage has the right idea too. That or buy 1 solid lifter for testing. Do not mix it up with your 16 hydros!