Strange to me 2.9 issue

[woodbutcher5691]

Ok 87, 2.9. Long story short. I bought the truck a couple months ago with the intake taken loose. Previous owner thought it wasn't getting gas. After putting it all back together and numerous hours testing and troubleshooting to no avail, I decided to pull a valve cover . What did I find you ask? All three intake pushrods laying down on the head, actually kinda working their way down into the motor. I was able to fish them out and none look to be bent. Has anyone here had this happen before or heard of it and what could have caused it? Thanks for any insight on this problem. Mike in TN.

 

[woodbutcher5691]

Took the other v/c off and one pushrod was bent one more on the top of the head. All intake valves. I have no earthly idea what could have caused this. Maybe a helluva massive backfire?

 

[woodbutcher5691]

Got a new valve to replace the bent one. Gonna put them back in and see what happens. Wish me good luck.

 

[Pauls 4x4]

Sounds like you may wanna check that timing chain... I'm interested in how this mystery solves out though!

Actually, thinking at it. Cam is probably toast. If there's no lobs the push-rods would get enough clearance to come of the bottom of the rockers.

 

[woodbutcher5691]

I've already pulled the timing cover and everything was in line. So anyways, I put the pushrods in and it cranked over about five times and fired right up and runs like a champ. I talked to a mechanic friend today and he suggested maybe it was over wound. IDK, it's just good to hear it run for the first time. Now on to buttoning it up properly and fix the dragging front brake.

 

[Pauls 4x4]

Sweet! As long as it works with a 2.9!