the_gear_head

malibu rough idle

Group: alt.autos.chevrolet.malibu Date: Sun, Oct 26, 2003, 7:01pm
(CST-2) From: dgorzynski@sernas.com (derek)
Need help!!
Had a coolant leak (famous 3.1L GM – 96,000 km) from lower intake
manifold gasket. I replaced that gasket and both head gaskets at the
same time. When I put everything together, engine misfire on #6
cylinder. Heads are OK, valves are OK.(checked by professional shop)
**Problem is when exhaust valve rocker is tightened properly there
is misfire and loss of compression in that cylinder. If I loosen up the
rocker it works fine but it starts to make clicking sound after a while.
I changed lifter and pushrod – same thing. Where is the problem
– do I need some sort of a shims between the rocker and pedestal
to get the correct preload on the valve. Could it be valve spring???

Valve spring would be my guess....I had a head sent off last week
...Came back with no problems...But i knew there was on so i took apart
the head my self ...Found the valves one the #1 cylinder pitted and
loose ...Sent it back to have then replace the valves and seals ...This
too was a professional shop.....Eighter change the springs or get a
second opinion on the head...
Steve C