Ford Mustang (1999-2004) Service Manual: Push Rods - Inspection

1. CAUTION: Do not attempt to straighten push rods.

Check the ends of the push rods for nicks, grooves, roughness or excessive wear. Install new push rods as necessary. Refer to the appropriate section in Group 303 for the procedure.

• The push rods can be checked for straightness while they are installed in the engine by rotating them with the valve closed.
• They also can be checked using a Dial Indicator with Bracketry.

2. If the push rod is bent beyond specifications, install a new push rod. Refer to the appropriate section in Group 303 for the procedure.

Camshaft Journal -Diameter

1. Measure each camshaft journal diameter in two directions.

• If out of specification, install new components as necessary. Refer to the appropriate section in Group 303 for the procedure.

Camshaft Journal -Clearance, Push Rod Engines, Micrometer Method

1. NOTE: The camshaft journals must meet specifications before checking camshaft journal clearance.

Measure each camshaft bearing (6261) in two directions.

• Subtract the camshaft journal diameter from the camshaft bearing diameter.