Pushrods 101: How to Maximize Engine Efficiency and Performance

Pushrods 101: What You Need to Know for Optimal Performance

When building or maintaining a high-performance engine, it’s easy to focus on components like rocker arms, camshafts, or valves. However, one often-overlooked part plays a critical role in your engine’s efficiency and performance: pushrods. These simple yet vital components are the unsung heroes of the valvetrain, ensuring that motion is efficiently transferred from the camshaft to the valves.

In this guide, we’ll break down what pushrods do, why they matter, how Scorpion Racing Products designs theirs for maximum durability, and how to choose the right ones for your build.

 

 

What Are Pushrods, and What Do They Do?

Pushrods are cylindrical metal rods that connect the camshaft’s lifters to the rocker arms. Their primary function is to transfer the camshaft’s rotational motion into the linear motion required to open and close the engine’s valves. Essentially, they act as a mechanical bridge, synchronizing the movement of the valvetrain components.

Without pushrods, the engine’s combustion cycle wouldn’t function properly, leading to performance issues, inefficiency, and ultimately, engine failure.

 

 

Why Pushrods Matter for Engine Performance

Though they might seem like a simple component, pushrods are critical for engine performance for several reasons:

1. Precision in Motion Transfer

Any flex, bend, or inconsistency in a pushrod can result in inaccurate valve timing. This leads to reduced airflow, poor combustion, and a significant drop in horsepower.

2. Strength Under Stress

High-performance engines, especially those operating at high RPMs, put extreme stress on the valvetrain. Pushrods must withstand this pressure without bending or failing.

3. Durability for Longevity

Engine components endure constant motion, heat, and pressure. High-quality pushrods are designed to resist wear and tear, reducing the need for frequent replacements.

 

 

How Scorpion Racing Products Designs Superior Pushrods

Scorpion Racing Products has earned its reputation by engineering pushrods that deliver exceptional durability and performance. Here’s what makes their pushrods stand out:

1. High-Quality Materials

Scorpion pushrods are crafted from premium materials, such as hardened chromoly steel. This ensures superior strength and resistance to flex, even under extreme conditions.

2. Precision Manufacturing

Using state-of-the-art CNC machining, Scorpion ensures that every pushrod is manufactured to exact tolerances. This precision guarantees proper fitment and consistent performance.

3. Heat Treatment for Durability

Scorpion’s pushrods undergo advanced heat treatment processes to enhance their resistance to wear and deformation, ensuring they maintain their integrity over time.

4. Application-Specific Design

Whether you’re building a street-performance engine or a high-RPM race car, Scorpion offers pushrods designed to meet the specific demands of your application.

 

 

How to Choose the Right Pushrods for Your Engine

Selecting the right pushrods for your engine is critical to ensuring optimal performance. Here are the key factors to consider:

1. Pushrod Length

  • Proper length is essential for achieving correct valve timing and geometry.

  • Measure the distance between the lifter and rocker arm when the valve is closed and fully open.

  • Scorpion offers a variety of lengths to suit different engine builds.

2. Material and Wall Thickness

  • For high-performance or high-RPM applications, choose pushrods with thicker walls and stronger materials like chromoly steel.

  • Lightweight pushrods are better suited for engines operating at moderate stress levels.

3. Compatibility with Other Components

  • Ensure your pushrods are compatible with your lifters, rocker arms, and valve springs.

  • Always check the manufacturer’s specifications to avoid mismatched components.

4. Intended Use

  • Street Performance: Focus on durability and compatibility with stock or mildly upgraded valvetrains.

  • Racing: Opt for heavy-duty pushrods designed for extreme stress and high RPMs.

 

 

Common Pushrod Issues and How to Avoid Them

  1. Bent Pushrods

    • Cause: Excessive valve spring pressure or improper valve lash adjustment.

    • Solution: Use heavy-duty pushrods and double-check valve lash settings.

  2. Excessive Wear

    • Cause: Poor lubrication or low-quality materials.

    • Solution: Ensure proper oil flow and upgrade to high-quality pushrods like Scorpion’s.

  3. Improper Fitment

    • Cause: Incorrect length or diameter.

    • Solution: Measure precisely and consult with experts or manufacturers when in doubt.

 

 

Why Scorpion Pushrods Are a Smart Investment

When you choose Scorpion Racing Products for your pushrods, you’re investing in:

  • Unmatched Durability: Designed to handle the stress of high-performance applications.

  • American Manufacturing: All components are proudly made in the USA with strict quality control.

  • Wide Range of Options: Scorpion offers pushrods tailored to suit everything from daily drivers to professional race cars.

 

 

Final Thoughts

Pushrods may not be the flashiest component of your engine, but their importance cannot be overstated. By choosing precision-engineered pushrods from Scorpion Racing Products, you can ensure your engine performs at its best—whether you’re tearing up the track or cruising the streets.

Take the time to measure, select, and install the right pushrods for your application. Your engine (and your performance goals) will thank you.