Back to Basics Besides opening the valves, the pushrod also functions as a portal for transferring lubricating oil though the valve lifter and up to the cylinder head. This is quite a basic function, since the pushrod only acts as a pipe.

What do pushrods connect to?

Pushrods are long, slender metal rods that are used in overhead valve engines to transfer motion from the camshaft (located in the engine block) to the valves (located in the cylinder head). The bottom end of a pushrod is fitted with a lifter, upon which the camshaft makes contact.

Do push rods need to be kept in order?

I built engines professionally for years, some worth into 5 figures, and managed the shop for years more, no rockers or pushrods were ever kept in original order. Lifters yes, rockers and pushrods no. No need to do that.