Question on checking valve lift 360 motor.

If you're installing a cam with less lift, I'm puzzled over why you think the seal/retainer clearance needs to be checked...

Any who...

You can temporarily install a solid lifter in place of the hydraulic one you're checking at, your local NAPA store should be able to get you one solid lifter to fit a 1966 Chrysler 273 for just a couple of bucks. (solids are cheap)

An alternate method would be to substitute a weaker spring in place of the valve spring, then you can measure valve travel until the retainer contacts the seal with a dial indicator (make sure the piston is down the bore somewhat and operate the valve by hand while taking the measurement).

I am using stock heads on the MP short block. The lift on the old engine which heads I am reusing was .410 the MP engine's camshaft is .509 which I'm almost positive will hit so I now have a .450 lift cam instead. I just want to be sure it won't mash the seals because it looks very close when I did a rough check with a small ruler. If anyone is interested I am selling the .509 lift/292 duration Mopar Performance cam which is brand new as well as a M.P timing chain and chrome M.P. timing cover. Photos here:

Thanks for the info I will give it a shot.

Brett