I read on Edelbrock.com that the E-Street heads (p# 5090) for Chrysler Big Block engines will only use stock rockers and push rods with a stock cam. For a street build, I would have guessed that if the lift was under .500", stock rockers would still work, regardless of whether the cam was technically stock. Has anyone tried these heads with a mild street cam that had more lift than stock? I really don't have money for adjustable rockers and my plan is for a cam with .470-.480 inches of lift, so I don't think I need an adjustable rocker set up. What do you think?

Does Ebrock say any such thing for their performer RPM heads? Many people are using those with stock rockers and bigger than stock cams (.509 for example) with no issues.

I don't know why the estreet heads wouldn't work the same way.

The installation instructions for Performer RPM also call for adjustable rockers

I've built a couple with .520" range lift with stock rockers. Both are still running w/o issue.
Doug

I am convinced that the instruction by Edelbrock is to cover their rears in case someone doesn't know that they may have to change pushrod length when things stack up with the pushrods not quite long enough. And believe me, there are many people out there like that.

I'd suggest using a checking pushrod with your cam, lifters and rocker setup to see how long the pushrods should be to get you enough preload on the lifters, then ordering a set in that length. www.oempushrods.com is the latest tip from board members for low cost pushrods.

Of course this all goes out the window if you're running a mechanical lifter cam.

With all the variability in the adjustable rockers out there, I'd just as soon avoid spending at least $300 for a new set of rockers that may require new pushrods anyway.

R.

I think it's a CYA too. I copied the following from the 5090 instructions

"These powerful heads use the stock location for intake flange and bolt holes, rocker shafts, and valve cover rails, for compatibility with original equipment and aftermarket parts.
Exhaust flange has been extended out .125” in order to provide dry exhaust bolt/stud holes. Exhaust bolt holes feature helicoil thread inserts for added strength and durability. Spark plugs have been re-oriented to a 15-degree angle to improve combustion efficiency."

With stock location for rocker shafts, valve cover rails, and intake flange, I don't see how it's possible that a stock valve train wouldn't work with a hydraulic cam that was mild street, under .5" lift at valve. I also like the dry exhaust mounts. I'm not sure about the 15-degree spark plug angle, because I'm not sure what good it does. Still I have 906 heads now and would get a 13cc chamber reduction, plus better heat transfer, and less chance of detonation with Edelbrock. And, the Edelbrock heads are made in USA.