What can you do to prevent damage to the pushrod when measuring pushrod clearance?

• A. Use a Checking Valve Spring
• B. Remove the pushrod
• C. Lubricate the lifter
• D. Use a Dial Indicator

Answer: (A)

When measuring pushrod clearance, you want the valve train to be under a light, controlled load rather than the full spring pressure from the cam. A checking valve spring provides just enough load to keep the valve seated without pushing the lifter up the cam lobe, which helps keep the pushrod straight and prevents bending or other damage during the measurement. This creates a safe, stable condition so the clearance reading is accurate.

Removing the pushrod isn’t helpful because you’re trying to assess clearance with the pushrod in place. Lubricating the lifter reduces wear but doesn’t control the load on the pushrod. A dial indicator is the measurement tool you’d use to read the clearance, but it doesn’t protect the pushrod from damage by itself.