Rocker arm shafts may break if installed improperly. Uneven torquing causes stress at bolt holes.
The proper method to install rocker shafts is as follows:
1. Set engine balancer timing mark at TDC mark on engine.
2. Rotate engine 31/2 ” counter clockwise (measured on balancer) or to first lower water pump bolt (See Figure 2-9).
This procedure will position the engine so that no valves are close to a piston head. This is 30° BTDC.
3. Before installing bolts through shaft be certain that ring around shaft is installed with “ split” at bottom (See Figure 2-10) on 1982 models. On 1983 and later the split is 90° to the right. On 1985 and later no split ring is used.
4. Snug both bolts on each shaft.
5. Tighten bolts evenly to 55 N.m. (40 lb. ft.) torque.
