Triumphrat

Sean1959

Can anyone advise me how to check the feed through the rockers on a 1959 3TA please.Upon starting up post rebuild the re sees to be little or no oil getting through to the area nearvalve springs, tappets etc. I have checked and there is a small but steady amount of oil getting through the return pumped circuit both to oil tank and head cylinder feed pipe. I have also removed the nut at the end of the rocker spindle and the central drilling appears clear. If all else fails I will remove the rocker spindlesand clear alll drillings, but I would prefer to avoid if there is something straightforward to check and sort.
Thanks
Sean

Mr.Pete

One way is to listen for squeaking at the rocker spindles after about 5 minutes running.If the rocker arms aren't squeaking and siezing on the spindles,you have enough oil.

The amount of oil that goes into each spindle would be less than a teaspoon per minute.The pressure in the feed line only needs to be about 0.5 psi on a warm engine.You can check this when the engine is hot.Connect a long hose to the rocker feed from the oil tank.Hold the other end of the hose about 12" above the rocker spindles.When you start the engine,there should be enough pressure in the hose to push oil to 12 inches above the rocker spindles.If oil makes it to the end of the hose and comes out,you have enough pressure.

You could put a little more restriction at the end of the return pipe in the oil tank,if you want more pressure.Push a coat-hanger wire into the return hole,then bend it over so it can't move.

Sean1959

Thanks - that's really helpful
Sean