Roller rockers from the USA

[dnb]

I will shortly be in the USA for a reasonable length of time. I would like to use my duty-free allowance sensibly (on v8 parts)

First on my list is a set of roller rockers, assuming they can be sourced more cheaply in the US. Harland Sharp look to be the best so far, but I am also looking at TA performance although they do not list the V8 on their website.

Who else would be worth looking at, and what part numbers are the right ones? I think I would prefer something shaft mounted - existing shafts would be nice, but not essential - so that there are not too many oiling problems to solve.

I have asked on PH too, but there's often more specialist knowledge lurking here.

Thanks for any help with sorting my confusion out.

[CastleMGBV8]

I will shortly be in the USA for a reasonable length of time. I would like to use my duty-free allowance sensibly (on v8 parts)

First on my list is a set of roller rockers, assuming they can be sourced more cheaply in the US. Harland Sharp look to be the best so far, but I am also looking at TA performance although they do not list the V8 on their website.

Who else would be worth looking at, and what part numbers are the right ones? I think I would prefer something shaft mounted - existing shafts would be nice, but not essential - so that there are not too many oiling problems to solve.

I have asked on PH too, but there's often more specialist knowledge lurking here.

Thanks for any help with sorting my confusion out.

DNB,

Unless you intend using the car for circuit racing with extended periods of high RPM say 6500+ then there is not a lot of point in using expensive roller rockers.

If the existing valve gear is in good nick then a set of rocker pillar end supports from JE for approx £80.00 will stabilse the shafts, and allow up to 6500 RPM without problems, also a good idea to check what valve spring retainers you have, the later ones are said to not be safe above 5800RPM.

Kevin.

[dnb]

It will already rev to 6500... I would like to see a reliable 7500. Please can we get back to the original question - I will publish the results of this winter's mods soon enough.

[spend]

What makes you say Harland Sharp look the best?

I was under the impression they stopped doing them yonks ago anyway?

[dnb]

Best = will talk to me and still seem to sell them. Are you thinking of kenne bell?

[CastleMGBV8]

DNB,

Assumed you were talking long stroke large capacity engine and usually 6500 RPM is about the upper RPM limit, 7500 RPM is normally associated with short stroke 63mm. 3.5 engines with small stem lightweight valves.

It helps if you provide full details when looking for informed information.

Kevin

[dnb]

Why should my engine specification choices make a difference to who can sell me roller rockers? It's one small (but seemingly difficult to source) part of a whole lot of things I have to sort out.

For the record, I have seen a rather nice 5 litre RV8 that had a limit in excess of 7k5 It made a respectable 400bhp and had similar characteristics to my current engine from idle to 5000 RPM so would be tractible enough to drive to the track. This is roughly where I am aiming, although it may take a bit of time to get all the elements together given I don't seem to have much time away from work these days

[kiwicar]

I think you have covered the US manufacturers of roller rockers for the rover with harlen sharp and TA, you could look at jesel rockers but you would have to make up your own shafts and support pillers. The only other maker of roller rockers I know of are Yella terra, but they are made in Oz and cost alot.
I actually also think that the reason that you don't see more manufacturers of roller rockers for the Buick 215 and 300 is that there is no real improvment with them over using the existing rockers or the volvo ones everyone used to use as an upgrade, they will certainly handle the revs you want. I apreciate this is not what you want to hear but I am pretty sure it is the case.
Best regards
Mike

[mgbloke]

I got my yella terras from the states which worked out cheaper than direct from Oz. Quality is superb.
Roller rockers should be looked at as just one component in a high performance engine, used not just for the friction reduction but also for reliability and reduced maintainance when using a high lift cam.
High lift can cause additional sideways forces on the valve guides which wear rapidly with conventional rockers.
Just my opinion
Mark

[CastleMGBV8]

DNB

Spec is relative in respect as to the modification being required, cost effective or not.

Not disagreeing with Mark, just a different perspective.

It's a bit of a personal thing but I would rather spend the money on a roller cam and lifters which would give a real gain in horsepower, have a look at "The Wedge Shop."

http://www.thewedgeshopstore.com/produc ... setup.html

Price would be cheaper in the US and they also do roller rockers

The existing valve gear can be made reliable if the geometry is corrected, tubular spacers fitted, and the end supports used, but uncertain of the ultimate rev limit.

Also if you are looking at 7500 RPM then the oiling system will require a lot of work as 10psi per 1000 RPM is required, cross drilled crank etc.

Kevin.