I have read some posts about this lock nuts came loose after while, so I am thinking about adding a lock washer between each lock nuts and the larger rod. I can't find any possibility of going wrong with this set up, but more brain would be better than my old brain.
What do you guys think? Bad/good idea? Why?
Thanks much in advance.

 

A basic rule when designing for reliability is... Fewer Parts = Higher Reliability.

Personally, I'd just use the stock pushrods or perfect fits if you need a different length.

But to answer your question, I'd use loctite before I'd add a lockwasher.

 

look on the package for the date, if it is a recent date, you will be fine.

 

I guess I don't prepare my question in a better way. What I would like to know is your input is about the lock washer. Mechanical advantage/disadvantage is the main idea.
Thanks again.

 

I thought I did answer your question. If you add a lockwasher, that lockwasher is one more potential failure mode. And the fact that it is internal to the engine, it is not something that you could easily inspect periodically. That is the reason I suggested loctite if you're concerned of the nut loosening. I would not use a lockwasher on any internal engine component.

 

+1 he is correct

 

im going to put star lock washers and locktight in mine.

 

I am not sure that a washer is the answer, when locked with the correct torque they shouldnt come undone. Furthermore the washer may be counterproductive as the washer will prevent the movement of the lock nut relative to the end of the push rod, whereas the movement you are seeking to prevent is the movement of the 2 parts of the push rod.

The jam nut effectively puts tension on the thread of the 2 parts of the push rod and binds them, the washer doesnt contribute to the physics of this binding, and may reduce it as the washer will be softer than the stiff high tensile material that the push rod is made of.

These things are usually designed by mechanical engineers who understand the properties of the steels they work with better than you or I, if it was designed to have a washer then it would have one.

 

After having one come loose on the way home, ( not fun,) I replaced the stock jam nuts with new jam nuts I located at the hardware store that had twice the surface area AND used a little loctite. Been tight ever since.

 

No Lock Washers Brother! As advised, use quality nuts and Loc-Tite. No Lock Washers.