I wondered why this thread surfaced again. That engine has been running like a champ the last few weeks. I did everything you aren't supposed to do. I straightened the bent pushrods. One pushrod had a boogered up end and I swapped it out for one from another 216 in a 49 I have sitting out back. Put it all back together, warmed up and adjusted the valves . . . now it runs pretty good and quiet as can be. Only problem is that the carb is still too lean, I just pull out the choke a little when I want some power. I hauled some good 4 yard loads of dirt up my driveway today. First gear, low range and just growled up at about 1 mph. Ran outta gas on the last trip while dumping and there she sits with the box still half full. I'll pick up some gas on my way home from work tommorow. I have hauled and dumped more than 100 yards of dirt since I fixed that pushrod! I love that old truck!
