Rocker ratio question

[DHiser27]

Ive searched for the answer to this question and havn't found it so here goes. What exactly does the different ratios of roller rockers mean? ex. 1.6 or 1.9. Ratio to what? Also, how do higher ratio roller rockers work differently than lower ratios, do higher ratios always mean more hp? I've read the cam bible so no need to go into springs or retainers and the like. These may seem like a newbie questions but I'm still learning and am learning as much as possible before modding. Thank you.

[caspernicus]

Re: Rocker ratio question

Think of the rocker ratio as a multiplier.

You take the advertised lift of the cam and multiply it by your
rocker ratio, which gives you your overall lift number.

So higher ratio rockers create more lift than lower ratios.

[DHiser27]

Re: Rocker ratio question

So does higher ratio always mean more hp gains? if so, why would anyone want to use lower ratios - clearance problems??

[UDLOSE98]

Re: Rocker ratio question

So does higher ratio always mean more hp gains? if so, why would anyone want to use lower ratios - clearance problems??

correct on both

[DHiser27]

Re: Rocker ratio question

I see...so whats the clearance on stock valve covers on a 2000 3800 Firebird? And Im not entirely sure how to find the lift of valves, how would I find the lift on aftermarket valves, cam, and rockers? whats the equation.

[UDLOSE98]

Re: Rocker ratio question

its not the valve covers that limit lift its the heads, and I dont know off hand what the maw lift on stock heads is.

when you are looking for a cam, its duration, lope seperation, and lift will be given.

[UDLOSE98]

Re: Rocker ratio question

then its lift x ratio = max lift.

[DHiser27]

Re: Rocker ratio question

Thank you, that helps me out.