Tools You'll Need:
* Wrench: The correct size for your rocker arm adjusting nuts (likely 7/16" or ½"). A socket wrench is preferable for better control.
* Feeler Gauges: A set of feeler gauges to check the valve lash. The correct setting for your 292 Y-block is crucial; consult your shop manual (see note below) as the specification varies slightly depending on the exact engine variant and whether it's a solid or hydraulic lifter setup. Generally, it's in the range of 0.012" - 0.016" for intake and 0.014" - 0.018" for exhaust.
* Shop Manual: An essential tool. A factory service manual for your specific 1956 Ford with a 292 engine is indispensable. It will have the exact valve lash specifications and diagrams for your engine. Don't attempt this without it!
* Torque Wrench (Optional but Recommended): While not strictly required for rocker arm adjustment, a torque wrench can help prevent over-tightening the rocker arm adjusting nuts.
* Pry Bar (Optional): Might be helpful to slightly loosen a stubborn rocker arm.
Procedure:
1. Preparation: Disconnect the negative battery terminal. Ensure the engine is completely cold.
2. Identify the Valves: Familiarize yourself with the location of the intake and exhaust valves on each cylinder. Your shop manual will have a clear diagram.
3. Locate the Rocker Arms: Identify the rocker arm adjusting nuts for each valve.
4. Determine Valve Lash Specification: Consult your shop manual to find the correct valve lash (clearance) specification for your engine's intake and exhaust valves. This is critically important.
5. Set the Engine to Top Dead Center (TDC) for the Correct Cylinder: This is crucial to accurately adjust the valves. Rotate the engine by hand (using a wrench on the crankshaft pulley) until the piston in the cylinder you're adjusting is at TDC on the compression stroke. Your shop manual will explain how to reliably determine this, often involving checking the timing marks on the crankshaft and camshaft.
6. Loosen the Rocker Arm Adjusting Nut: Carefully loosen the lock nut on the rocker arm you're adjusting.
7. Adjust the Valve Lash: Using the appropriate feeler gauge, insert it between the rocker arm and the valve stem. While holding the feeler gauge in place, carefully turn the adjusting screw until you feel the correct resistance from the feeler gauge. This indicates the correct clearance.
8. Tighten the Lock Nut: Once the correct valve lash is achieved, tighten the lock nut securely. Do not overtighten.
9. Repeat for all Valves: Repeat steps 5-8 for each valve on the engine. Remember to always rotate the engine to TDC for the specific cylinder you are adjusting. Each cylinder requires a separate TDC setting. This is a time-consuming but necessary part of the process.
10. Recheck Valve Lash: After adjusting all valves, it's a good idea to recheck the lash on each one to ensure they remain within the specified range.
Important Notes:
* Hydraulic Lifters: If your engine has hydraulic lifters, the valve adjustment procedure is different and usually involves less frequent adjustments or none at all. Your shop manual should specifically address this.
* Solid Lifters: If your engine has solid lifters (more common in performance engines), regular valve adjustments are necessary.
* Shop Manual: It can't be stressed enough – a 1956 Ford shop manual is indispensable for this task. It will provide specific instructions, diagrams, and torque specifications relevant to your engine.
* Safety First: Be careful when working around moving parts. Never put your hands near moving components of the engine.
This is a complex procedure. If you are not comfortable performing this task, it's best to seek help from a qualified mechanic. Incorrect adjustment can damage your engine valves and lifters.
