Ok guys. Gaskets and sealant arrived. Went out to garage to start the fun. Everything set up with elastic bands on rocker arms, dropped box on, removed comb and - non of them seated.
Having got goo on everything and slightly damaged two of the gaskets
, I tried again. This time, I removed the elastic bands, the theory being that, with the cups at the lowest point, the pushrods were 'missing' them somehow. I pushed the arms down so the cups were at the highest point, kept the comb on and dropped the box almost onto the comb. Then, having slackened the adjusters, I rocked the arms back until resistance was felt, the adjusters were then tightened up closer to the valve so they wouldn't 'pop out' again when 'rocked'. Lifted the box slightly, removed comb, and gently tightened. As box was starting to settle, wiggled rear wheel in fourth to see if all rockers moved - they did
Tightened everything up, adjusted adjusters, kicked it over to make sure all rockers and valves were moving, rechecked gaps and put it all back together - started third kick and ran beautifully.
Quick questions. There was a bit of sealant inside of the rocker box around the gasket which I assume will fall off eventually. I suspect the doom mongers will tell me about blocked oilways and seizures - something I want to avoid. I presume a regular inspection of the sump gauze is in order, as well as some shorter, more gentler rides until the gauze stays clear. Also, will the bit of grease I put in the rocker cups foul the oil??
Thanks in advance fellas, especially Col's excellent 'bent comb' arrangement. Would still be in the garage now but for that.
