Valve Adjusters Revisited - Now also valve lash caps! Options

[bbrock]

I know valve adjustment screws have discussed to death, but frankly, the information is all over the mat and the more I read, the more confused I get. I'm hoping to get some clarity for my build. Here's the situation: stock "GA" 2.0L engine. The only mod on this engine is the OE camshaft got a mild regrind for carbs and I installed euro spec (flat top) pistons. This is not a performance build, just looking for reliability.

The heads are in Sonoma being rebuilt right now and, based on advice from this forum, will get a new set of SS valves. I have a box full of rocker assemblies from several engines, including both 8mm and 10mm versions. My original plan was to install the 10mm rockers with a new set of OE adjustment screws, but I have read that SS valves require either swivel foot adjusters or lash caps to protect the stem ends. True or False? Manley valves have hardened tips (IMG:style_emoticons/default/confused24.gif)

If it's true that SS valves need extra protection, I like the swivel foot adjuster options, but they are damn expensive and i AM trying to stay in a budget here. Lash caps seems the less expensive option but what is the best way to deal with the extra length they add to the valve stems?

Again, I'm just looking for a reliable engine that provides new stock performance. I'm not interested in upgrades that only benefit high performance engines or provide nothing but bragging rights.

Thanks in advance for any advice.

[bbrock]

I wonder if you can use these...
https://www.cbperformance.com/product-p/1518.htm

I looked at those but they came up in one of the many older threads I read and not in a good way. I don't remember the issue, but the consensus was to use genuine Porsche screws. But if something like the CB swivels would make a good sub for Porsche parts, this upgrade would be a no-brainer. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/popcorn[1].gif)

I had Hamm rebuild my heads a few years ago when he was still working on stock 2 liter heads. He used stainless valves and double springs. I am running the oem 8mm rockers and push rods. I am adjusting both intake and exhaust at .006 in. since I don't have sodium exhaust valves any more. No one told me there was any kind of hardness problem with stainless valves.

I can tell you that I wish I would have made the switch to swivels. I know the adjusters are expensive but it's really the only thing I feel like I should have done while it was all apart. Yea I saved a some money but the stock valve train is loud. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/dry.gif)

Thanks Mark, this is very helpful. The sound benefit alone makes the swivel feet attractive. We all know that the stock Type IV sounds like a pound of loose bolts in a washing machine. Part of my resistance here is that this is an upgrade that would be easy to do down the road. Rockers are easy to swap with the engine still in the car. I've done it before. So it isn't like I'm stuck with the choice I make now as long as my choice doesn't wind up mushrooming my valve stems.

I'm doing a full rotisserie resto of what a year ago was a pile of rust. If you add every $200-$300 upgrade that would be nice, it doesn't take long before you are 5-10 grand over budget. I'm trying to be careful about sorting out what must be done now, could be done later, and really isn't worth the $$ At this point, I'd put this one in the "could be done later" group but not set in stone. Thanks for everyone's input so far. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/beer.gif)