rocker arms and hydraulic lifters service?

1994 FORD CROWN VICTORIA
12,345 MILES • 4.6L • V8 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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EVANDER GAMBLE
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i want to service my rocker arms and hydraulic lifters myself at home. aside from the obvious of getting new rocker arms and hydraulic lifters... what other new parts would i need? i know i need new bolts for the headers because it's not recommended to reuse. also is this a job someone like an avg joe as me can tackle at home?
Mar 14, 2025 at 12:25 PM
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STRAILER
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Sure, if you have the tools and take your time, I will guide you through the job np. Here is a video to help get an idea of what needs to be done, and I have included instructions in the images below, you will need to remove the timing cover so start by disconnecting the battery and drain the coolant. If you watch the series, it will help you know more about that engine.

https://youtu.be/dler2t2e4Zw?si=gakpwBaoFJGiLSOB

You will need some specialty tools which are listed and featured in the video. Upload images or videos of any problems you are having. You should replace the timing chains and inspect the camshafts as well. Go over all of the material before you begin to see if you feel comfortable in doing a job this size. The timing chain marks are at the end of the images. Check out the images (below). Let us know how it goes.
Mar 15, 2025 at 11:34 AM
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EVANDER GAMBLE
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So, are there any parts you know of that'll I need other than tools?
Mar 16, 2025 at 2:05 AM
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STRAILER
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Yep, AI misses it sometimes, it thinks you have a pushrod engine and in block camshaft which is not true. You can see the lifters will not come out unless you remove the camshaft towers. If you remove the valve cover and shot an image straight over head so we both can be sure.
Mar 17, 2025 at 9:29 AM
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EVANDER GAMBLE
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My bad Ken buddy. I stand corrected. last question you may know more than me on this. I'll jump straight to it. When I'm pushing the fat girl hard you can hear it slapping the rockers (I'm hoping that's it) like when it breaks over 30 you can hear it in. No misfires, and you can hear the stress on the motor in the first two gears which is normal for high mileage vehicles. I'm asking before I crack it open because woof, she's a daily for me.
Mar 20, 2025 at 10:36 PM
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STRAILER
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No worries, Evander :) If the oil pump pickup is clogged it will cause this kind of noise, can you upload a short video of the noise? Most of the time it will be the timing chain and guides in these engines. I will know more once I can hear the video. Make sure the engine oil is clean and full, if it not, change it with the filter and add Lucus oil treatment.
Mar 21, 2025 at 9:06 AM