darylbb63 asks, "Are the vavle tappets the same size on a 216 and a 235?"
Yes and no. Never an easy answer. This is a general breakdown:
216 - 235 same rocker arms:
1939 - 1953 216 engine
1941 - 1949 235 engine
235 same rocker arms:
1953 - 1958 235 engine
235 same rocker arms:
1958 - 1962 235 engine
Those three groups, Daryl, rocker arms are interchangeable but only within each group. There are many parts which are the same for all three groups, most notably rocker arm shafts, springs and shims.
Problem is subtle differences. First group, 216 and 235 rockers are precisely the same but cannot be used on late 1953 and newer engines because of an oil passage way difference.
Second group, 53 - 58, oil flow is controlled by an oil passage way in the block.
Third group, 58 - 62, oil flow is controlled by an oil passage way in each rocker arm.
Those are subtle hidden differences you would not spot. So, to answer your question, safest answer is "no, not the same". Size, shape, all else looks the same but hidden from view are those oil ways.
Your best solution is to go to Ebay and buy complete used rocker arm sets. You will have a very hard time finding new rocker arms and when you do, very expensive. Used rocker arms typically show very little wear; old six cylinders are very gentle on those.
At Ebay, right now, there are two complete sets of *used* 216 rocker arms and assemblies on sale, $60.00 per set. This is a bargain.
At Ebay, right now, there is a NOS (new old stock) set of 235 rocker arms only, price $200. This is also a bargain. Those are listed as 1950 - 1958 but actual is late 1953 - 1958.
Companies which once sold 216 and 235 rocker arms no longer do, such as Jim Carter. Looks stock is depleted for most companies. If you are to buy a replacement, best zoom over to Ebay and snag whichever set you need, and do this soon before those vanish.
You might luck into a single rocker arm somewhere out on the web but this is long shot, and will be expensive. Doubtful you will find what you need. You can try, but do not get your hopes up.
Be sure you keep your rocker arms in same order as on your engine now. Reinstall each rocker in the same place to keep wear patterns matched up. Your rocker arm shaft is two pieces and, a frequent accident, is not knowing this. Many times a novice will remove the assembly only to have the two shafts split apart then spring loaded rocker arms go flying, become jumbled up.
There are four sets of specific rocker arms:
right hand intake
left hand intake
right hand exhaust
left hand exhaust
Hard to mix those up but this does happen. Annoying to slide your rocker arms onto a shaft only to discover a mix-up then have to slide most back off and start over.
Personally, Daryl, I would get over there to Ebay and buy one of those complete sets, 216 or 235, whichever you need.
Billyray
Last edited by Billyray; 03/26/2010 5:19 AM.
