Noisy Rocker Resolved
Thread Starter
Le Mans Master
Joined: Feb 1999
Posts: 8,351
Likes: 75
From: Tampa Bay FL
Noisy Rocker Resolved
Since installing my DART heads back around 2001-2002 on my warmed over '80 L48, I chased a noisy valvetrain. Tried many different things from replacing header manifold and collector gaskets, rockers, pushrods, adjusting lash, and even removing/re-installing the heads and intake/gaskets to no avail. Figured I'd have a mechanic take a look after exhausting all of my ideas. Found the valve cover was being forced 'forward' on the cyl head and the pcv baffle was getting 'rubbed' by a rocker arm. Traced it back to the cruise control bracket applying pressure against the rear of the driver's valve cover (at firewall). I've removed the cruise bracket, plugged the cruise vacuum line and effectively disabled the cruise control, centered the valve cover and no more racket! Now, I just have to clearance the rear rail/edge of the driver's valve cover sufficiently; approx 1/16" or less may be all that is needed to clear where the cruise bracket is against the valve cover. For now, I'll enjoy driving the car as I don't use the cruise; too much fun 
NOTE: I have the thick-walled chrome AC-DELCO 'Chevrolet' valve covers.
NOTE: I have the thick-walled chrome AC-DELCO 'Chevrolet' valve covers.
Thread Starter
Le Mans Master
Joined: Feb 1999
Posts: 8,351
Likes: 75
From: Tampa Bay FL
Added two washers to the cruise bracket where it mounts to the rear of the driver's cyl head and re-installed the cruise control. No more rocker racket and I have my cruise control again; don't use it much as it surges (probably the transducer). But, may as well have it installed than not... a few less clips and pieces to rattle around (and lose) in my tool box drawer. 
