Hydro or Solid??? Way to find out on EA-81?

[Bratwerst]

There's a bit of unwanted engine noise..... it's quite annoying. The motor is supposed to be from an 83 with an automatic which means it SHOULD be a hydro motor BUT the "do not adjust valves" stickers arent there on the valvecovers. I don't know why any previous mechanic would peel them off...

 

I want to adjust my valves one way or another, just don't want to do them incorrectly. Anyone have an easy (outside or valve-cover removal) way of telling???? I've got a few hours to kill before work so you skimmers reply!!

 

thanks

 

- Erik - Tacoma, WA -

[Jerry DeMoss]

Another easy way to tell if it is or not is: On the older non hydro engines the heads have 2 extra bolts that hold the head onto the block.It is on the bottom down by the exhaust port.I believe they are 10mm.That is one way I found if you are unsure if it is hydro or not.

[Bratwerst]

I'm well aware of those bolts you speak of! Had a helluva time getting the heads off an 81 wagon when those were still in (doh!!!!) That will be easy to tell then - thanks!

 

- Erik -

[mcbrat]

if you take the valve covers off, you will see if the rocker arms have a lock washer on them so the nut won't turn (no adjusting). that'll be a hydro engine.

[GeneralDisorder]

Well - the extra bolts are a way to tell what heads you have (large intake or small intake), but doesn't tell about the lifters. 83/84 solid lifter engines have the large valve heads too.

 

Mick - you are right, but the gasket sets come with the lock washers, so someone could have added them. Best way to tell is to remove the valve cover, and look at the pushrod itself. The solid lifter rod is aluminium with a steel tip on the end, while the hydro lifter is a solid steel rod with no special tip. You will see the that the last 1/2" of the rod has a bigger diameter tip if the engine is solid lifter.

 

Perhaps someone changed the valve covers, but likely it's a solid lifter engine. Good to check tho as the adjustment procedure is indeed different.

 

GD