Push Rods, 3/8 11.6 Long Chromoly, Cut to Length

OVERVIEW

When you are pushing the limits of your air-cooled Volkswagen engine, the valvetrain is often the first place where performance gains are lost due to component flex. These BUGPACK 3/8-inch Chromoly Push Rods are engineered specifically for high-performance builds where stock pushrods simply cannot survive. Manufactured from premium 4130 .080-wall chromoly tubing, these rods offer the ultimate in rigidity and strength. Whether you are running a high-lift camshaft, heavy-duty dual valve springs, or consistently hitting high RPM ranges at the track, these pushrods ensure that every bit of lift from your cam is accurately transferred to your valves without the power-robbing deflection common in lesser materials. They provide the rock-solid foundation required for a stable valvetrain, giving you the peace of mind that your engine''s timing and lift remain consistent under the most extreme racing conditions.

One of the most critical aspects of a professional engine build is achieving perfect rocker arm geometry, and these "Cut to Length" pushrods are the professional''s choice for getting it right. Since every high-performance engine varies in deck height, head thickness, and rocker arm style, a "one size fits all" pushrod is rarely the correct solution. This set comes with one end open, allowing you to measure and cut the 11.60-inch tubes to your exact specifications before installing the 60 Rockwell hardened tips. This customization ensures that your rocker arm sits perfectly centered on the valve stem at mid-lift, which significantly reduces wear on valve guides and maximizes the efficiency of your valvetrain. Don''t settle for "close enough" when you can have the precision of a custom-tailored chromoly pushrod set that is built to handle the rigors of a high-output VW flat-four.

FITMENT

These pushrods are designed for universal application across high-performance air-cooled VW engines including:

• Volkswagen Type 1: Beetle, Bug, and Karmann Ghia (1200cc, 1300cc, 1500cc, and 1600cc based engines).
• Volkswagen Type 2: Bus, Transporter, Station Wagon, and Kombi (1950-1971 models using Type 1 upright engines).
• Volkswagen Type 3: Fastback, Squareback, and Notchback.
• Volkswagen Thing: All Type 181 models.
• Custom Builds: Sand rails, Dune Buggies, and Trikes utilizing VW-based engine cases.
• Performance Specs: Specifically required for engines using high-lift camshafts and dual valve spring configurations.

SPECS

• Material: High-Grade 4130 Chromoly Steel Tubing.
• Outside Diameter: 3/8 Inch (Oversized for maximum rigidity).
• Wall Thickness: .080 Inch.
• Overall Length: 11.60 Inches (Uncut length with tips installed).
• End Tips: Includes 60 Rockwell Hardened Steel Tips.
• Configuration: Cut-to-length (One tip pre-installed, one tip loose for assembly).
• Quantity: Set of 8 Pushrods.
• Application: High RPM, High Lift, and Dual Valve Spring Loads.

PRO TIPS

1. Precision Measuring is Paramount

To get the most out of these cut-to-length pushrods, you must use an adjustable checking pushrod first. Set your engine to mid-lift on the camshaft and adjust your checking tool until the rocker arm geometry is perfect. Once you have that measurement, remember to subtract the thickness of the pushrod tip shoulder that sits outside the tube before you make your final cut. Double-check your measurements on both the intake and exhaust valves, as deck heights can sometimes vary slightly from side to side on high-performance cases. Cutting them correctly the first time is essential, as you can''t add material back once it is gone.

2. Proper Tip Installation and Seating

Installing the hardened tips into the chromoly tubing requires a secure press-fit to ensure they never move during operation. A common professional trick is to slightly chamfer the inner edge of the tube after cutting to remove any burrs. You can then use a small amount of high-strength sleeve locker or red thread locker on the shank of the tip. For an even better fit, many builders will "heat-shrink" the tips by placing the tips in a freezer for an hour and gently heating the end of the chromoly tube with a propane torch before pressing them together in a bench vise with soft jaws or a dedicated press.

3. Verify Pushrod Tube Clearance

Because these are 3/8-inch diameter heavy-duty pushrods, they are significantly thicker than stock units. This added girth is great for strength but can sometimes lead to interference with the inner walls of your pushrod tubes, especially if you are using high-ratio rockers that change the angle of the rod. After installation, rotate the engine by hand for several full cycles and use a flashlight to look down the pushrod tubes. If you see any signs of rubbing, you may need to "clearance" the tubes or switch to wide-mouth performance pushrod tubes to ensure the valvetrain moves freely without friction or metal-to-metal contact.