Changing the pushrods when decking the heads?

[onefastV6]

What is the most you can deck 3400 heads and still use the stock pushrods? Anyone have expierence with this subject?

[SHOoff]

I think you run into problems with valve clearance before you need to change pushrods.

[AaronGTR]

If you were using adjustable rockers it wouldn't be a problem. With the self aligning rockers though they automatically set height and valve lash. If you had solid lifters this could cause a problem, but you have hydraulic lifters so I'm pretty sure it won't be a problem. They usually don't take a lot off when they deck heads, and any change in height that small should be absorbed by the give in the pushrod seat on top of the lifter. In other words you should be fine with the stock pushrods, at least thats my take on it. Anyone have any other thoughts on it? I know a few people have had their heads decked and I can't remember hearing anyone talking about having to change pushrods.

[sprucegagt]

I have my heads milled .010. Pushrods were never before or are an issue. The maximum spec mill is .010. Now I know of a couple other people that have gone to .020 cut with no problem either.

BTW: You mill heads not deck them.

[El_Diablo]

hmmm, could this possibly be a question relating to a milzy head purchase? just a guess since he offers to take up to .020 off the heads......

[torq455]

I have never heard of anyone needing to get different pushrods due to milling the heads. You will take too much off the head before you'll need different pushrods.

[XLR8ING]

I wrecked a set of lifters by using stock pushrods with the non adjustable rockers on my 91 3.1L after planing the heads and block, and putting a Crane cam in.
With just a normal head planing, you should be fine. Repair shops do it all the time just to straighten warped heads and never put new pushrods in after.
As to how much you can take off, don't go too nuts. Some guys here have gone crazy with it (Colin) but you can get into problems down the road.
Also the lifters are only suppose to have a certain amount of pre load.
So how much material you take off the head basically adds right to your lifter pre load. I'm sure it's not exact, but you get the idea.
Good luck!

[El_Diablo]

Some guys here have gone crazy with it (Colin)