Inspect for engine oil in the push rods as follows:
1. Hold the push rod horizontally and drop it from a height of 6 inches onto a concrete floor or a metal
surface.
2. The push rod can be used if a ringing sound is heard.
3. If a dull (or non-ringing) sound is heard, the push rod contains engine oil and must be discarded.
Inspect the straightness of the push rod by rolling it on a level bench. Replace the push rod if it is bent. Do not use
a bent push rod.
Visually inspect the socket end of the push rod for uneven wear, scratches, or separation of the insert from the tube.
If a worn push rod is found, the mating adjusting screw must also be replaced.
When parallel scratches are found in the contact area, the push rods must be replaced.
Visually inspect the ball end of the push rod.
The contact area must show a smooth seating pattern.
If the ball end of the push rod has parallel grooves and scratches with a nipple in the center, the push rod must
be replaced. If a worn push rod is found, the mating cam follower socket must be replaced. Refer to Cam Follower
Socket – Replacement (04-04).
