Valve lash solid lifter 289

[Joe Travers]

Hey folks!
Looking for some experienced opinions on the mystery cam. Can't find the original builder to get make or specs.
Engine runs well, so I don't want to tear into it, just routine maintenance here.

I'm familiar with the old HP cam with long duration and 0.02" lash spec.
I'm pretty sure this is a modern grind with less duration. I'm seeing tighter lash specs for those.
Have it idling @ 800. It's bouncing 50 rpm, more or less.

I'm not racing, wondering if the old spec is the safest bet?
Rather lose a little lift than burn a valve.

Thanks!

JT

[robib]

A happy valve is a loose valve. Have a Comp Cams solid lifter cam in my 63 289/302, which is close to the Ford 271 cam. The valve lash is .022 intake and exhaust. Don't see how you could go wrong with that setting.

[Joe Travers]

A happy valve is a loose valve. Have a Comp Cams solid lifter cam in my 63 289/302, which is close to the Ford 271 cam. The valve lash is .022 intake and exhaust. Don't see how you could go wrong with that setting.

Thanks for the recommendation!
I finally found a general recommendation of 0.020 (hot) for iron heads, 0.015 for aluminum heads.
I agree, rather loose than burnt.

JT