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Rocker Arms and Rocker Shafts: Wear Signs and Inspection

Evergreen Auto Parts and Components > Tech Center > Technical Education > Rocker Arms and Rocker Shafts: Wear Signs and Inspection
Oct 14, 2026 Posted by: evergreenparts Technical Education

Rocker arms transfer camshaft motion to the valves. Depending on the engine, they pivot on studs, pedestals or a rocker arm shaft that also feeds oil to each rocker.

Signs of Wear

  • Ticking or clattering from the top of the engine.
  • Valve lash that will not stay in adjustment.
  • Worn rollers, pivots or valve tip contact pads.
  • Grooves worn into a rocker shaft at each rocker location.

Causes

  • Low oil pressure or clogged oil passages to the rockers.
  • Extended oil change intervals.
  • Incorrect valve lash or worn pushrods and lifters.

Inspection and Installation

  • Clean the rocker shaft oil passages and check the shaft for wear.
  • Install the shaft with the oil holes in the correct position.
  • Inspect matching pushrods, lifters and cam lobes.
  • Lubricate pivots during assembly and tighten supports in sequence.
  • Adjust valve lash where required.

Evergreen Parts

Evergreen offers valves and rocker arms identified by engine or vehicle application. Use the Evergreen eCatalog to find the right part, and see where to buy Evergreen through our authorized distributors.