Found Pushrods bent... and a few other questions..

[cman962]

I have several oil leaks I am trying to to eliminate and cold start issues (glow plugs tested bad) I am in the process of replacing glowplugs, one UVCH (the clip on the plug broke off, and the o-rings under the turbo and pedistal along with several other o-rings on top of the motor while I am at it.. I have had a ticking noise since I bought the truck a little over a year ago, nothing alarming but noticable. I figured i would check the pushrods since I had the valve covers off. I pulled three pushrods and all were bent a little. I have decided to replace them all. The truck seemed to run pretty good dispite the bent pushrods. I found the o-ring between the turbo and the intake horn was missing too. I'm sure it will run better when I get done.
My Questions:
1) Should I just get original replacement pushrods or spend the x-tra money to get stronger ones?
2) I live in Ohio so we have some cold weather. Should I keep the EBV valve in working order for the cold weather or can I delete it and still be ok? I would like to replace seals in it or delete it (I think it is leaking a little oil by the rod).
Thanks for any suggestions/ info.

[Cgaetz]

I can't speak for the aftermarket pushrods, but I have replace several sets with factory oem. They usually fail due to poor warmup / hard driving when not properly warmed up. Most have been on ambulances that are started and driven immediately. As for The ebp actuator leak, I have had good success with a small hone and the rebuild kit that riffraff diesel sells. Google them, VERY good to deal with. Clay is a straight up guy.

[ToMang07]

NOT trying to hijack the thread....

But what is the cost of having the rods/pistons installed?

I'm looking to buy forged pistons/rods to install in my truck... and I'm curious how much the re-install would cost.

[Cgaetz]

You need to start another thread I think. He is referring to the pushrods that run the valves, you are talking about connecting Ross between the pistons and crank. You will basically be rebuilding your engine (major) to change connecting rods.

[cman962]

Thanks Cgaetz, for the reply!
I have no idea how this truck was treated before I got it. I do know it spent most of it's days in Arizona. I ordered a set of OEM Pushrods. I did find another post on here saying they thought the stock pushrods would bend and save other more major components.
I found Riffraff Diesel site. I will get a rebuild kit coming. I'm sure the EBPV helps warm up the engine in cold weather so I will retain it.

Thanks again Cgaetz!