Best Performance Push Rod Guide Plates of 2026

Robert Reyes Avatar
Robert Reyes
Last Updated: Jan 11, 2026

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Performance Push Rod Guide Plates are essential components for high-performance engines that use a hydraulic or solid lifter camshaft. These guide plates help keep the pushrods in place and prevent them from flexing or bending under high RPM or heavy loads. They are made of durable materials, such as hardened steel or aluminum, and come in various designs to fit different engine configurations. Performance Push Rod Guide Plates are easy to install and can significantly improve the reliability and performance of an engine. They are a must-have for any serious engine builder or racer looking to get the most out of their engine.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Allstar Performance Engine Lift Plate for Ford Cover #TOP 1
Allstar Performance Engine Lift Plate for Ford
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Comp Cams 4802-8 Raised Guide Plate Set for Chevy Small Block Cover #TOP 2
Comp Cams 4802-8 Raised Guide Plate Set for Chevy Small Block
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Edelbrock Guide Plates for Small Block Ford Engines Cover #TOP 3
Edelbrock Guide Plates for Small Block Ford Engines
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Performance Push Rod Guide Plates

#TOP 1

Allstar Performance Engine Lift Plate for Ford

Allstar Performance Engine Lift Plate for Ford Cover
Allstar Performance Engine Lift Plate

This engine lift plate is specifically designed for Ford 5.0L / 5.8L EFI Intake. It has a package dimension of 35.306 L x 10.668 W x 0.508 H (centimeters) and weighs 4.75 pounds. The product is made in the United States and has a vehicle-specific fit type. It falls under the category of Engine Push Rod Guide Plates.

What We Like
Specially designed for Ford 5.0L / 5.8L EFI Intake
Vehicle-specific fit type
Made in the United States
#TOP 2

Comp Cams 4802-8 Raised Guide Plate Set for Chevy Small Block

4802-8
Black
Raised
Comp Cams 4802-8 Raised Guide Plate Set for Chevy Small Block Cover
Comp Cams-4802-8 Raised 1 Piece Guide Plate Set Chevrolet Small Block w/ 3/8" Pushrod 7/16" Stud

The Comp Cams Raised Guide Plates are specifically designed for Small Block Chevy engines, giving you a precise fit thanks to advanced stereo lithography design methods. These guide plates work perfectly with 3/8-inch pushrods, ensuring compatibility and smooth operation. The hardened construction adds durability, so you can count on long-lasting performance. Plus, the black oxide finish not only looks good but also helps protect the plates from corrosion. With these features, you get reliable, accurate, and durable guide plates that make your engine work more efficiently and last longer.

What We Like
Precise fit design
Compatibility with 3/8" pushrods
Hardened durability
Corrosion-resistant finish
#TOP 3

Edelbrock Guide Plates for Small Block Ford Engines

9665
Black
Edelbrock Guide Plates for Small Block Ford Engines Cover
Edelbrock 9665 Guide Plates - 5/16in - SBF

These guide plates are made of steel material and are hardened to 60 Rockwell "C" for durability. The flat type, 5/16in diameter plates come in a set of 8 and are designed for engine push rod guide applications.

What We Like
Durable and long-lasting
Comes in a set of 8
Designed for engine push rod guide applications
#TOP 4

Comp Cams 4806-1 Guide Plate

4806-1
Black
Extra Large
Comp Cams 4806-1 Guide Plate Cover
Comp Cams 4806-1 Raised 1 Piece Guide Plate for Chevrolet Big Block w/ 3/8"" Pushrod 7/16"" Stud"

The Comp Cams Guide Plate is essential for anyone working with high-performance Chevrolet Big Block engines. It ensures precise alignment with its carefully designed stud placement, which is vital for maintaining stability under high lift and spring pressure. The rounded contact points provide smooth operation, reducing wear and tear. Additionally, the plate is crafted for a perfect fit using advanced prototype techniques, ensuring durability and reliability. With its hardened and black oxide finish, you can trust this guide plate to withstand the demands of performance driving.

What We Like
High-performance necessity
Precision alignment
Durable construction
Perfect fit
#TOP 5

Comp Cams-4854 Flat 1 Piece Guide Plate Set for GM LS

4854-8
Black
LS1/LS2/LS6
Comp Cams-4854 Flat 1 Piece Guide Plate Set for GM LS Cover
"Comp Cams-4854 Flat 1 Piece Guide Plate Set GM LS w/ 5/16"" Pushrod and 8mm Stud", ls1/ls2/ls6

This engine push rod guide plate set is vehicle specific and made in the United States. It has a package weight of 0.71 pounds and compact package dimensions of 9.51 L x 1.51 H x 5.76 W (inches).

What We Like
Vehicle specific
Compact package dimensions
Made in the United States
#TOP 6

Manley Big Block Chevy Guide Plate, 8 Pieces

42164-8
Manley Big Block Chevy Guide Plate, 8 Pieces Cover
Manley 421648 Big Block Chevy Guide Plate, 3/8" Pushrod, 8 Pieces

The Manley Guide Plate is an auto part designed to assist in engine pushrod guide plates. This product is specifically made for 3/8" pushrods and comes in a package containing 8 pieces. The item package dimensions are 9.13" L X 4.99" W X 1.96" H, and it weighs 2.46 lbs. The Manley Guide Plate is a reliable and durable product that is essential to keep your engine running smoothly. It is easy to install and will provide a secure fit for your pushrods. With this guide plate, you can ensure that your pushrods are aligned correctly and will not cause any damage to your engine. The Manley Guide Plate is a must-have for any car enthusiast who wants to keep their engine in top condition.

What We Like
Durable
Reliable
Easy to install
#TOP 7

COMP Cams 4842-8 Guide Plate Set

4842-8
Black
5/16" Pushrod
COMP Cams 4842-8 Guide Plate Set Cover
COMP Cams 4842-8 Flat 1 Piece Guide Plate Set for Olds 350-455 w/ 5/16" Pushrod and 5/16" Stud

The COMP Cams Guide Plates are essential for optimizing performance in high-lift and high-spring pressure engine setups. You will appreciate the precise stud placement and rounded contact points, which enhance alignment and reduce wear. Designed using advanced rapid prototyping, these plates ensure a snug fit, giving you confidence in their durability. The hardened and black oxide finish adds an extra layer of protection, making them ideal for your Oldsmobile 350-455 engines equipped with 5/16" studs and pushrods. With these guide plates, you can elevate your engine's performance with ease.

What We Like
High-performance necessity
Precise alignment
Durable construction
Perfect fit for specific engines
#TOP 8

Comp Cams Guide Plate Set for High Performance Engines

4839-8
Black
3/8" Pushrod
Comp Cams Guide Plate Set for High Performance Engines Cover
Comp Cams 4839-8 Flat 2 Piece Adjustable Guide Plate Set SBC/289-351W w/ 3/8"" Pushrod 7/16"" Stud"

The Comp Cams Guide Plate Set is a necessary component for high lift/spring pressure environments of performance engines. These guideplates are precisely designed with exact stud placement and rounded contact points, and are made using rapid prototype techniques for accurate fit. They are hardened and black oxide finished for high durability and a perfect fit. The two-piece adjustable guide plate set is ideal for Chevrolet 265-400 Small Block and Ford 289-351W engines with 7/16" studs and 3/8" pushrods. Made in the USA.

What We Like
Precisely designed with exact stud placement and rounded contact points
Hardened and black oxide finished for high durability and perfect fit
Made using rapid prototype techniques for accurate fit
Compatible with Chevrolet 265-400 Small Block and Ford 289-351W engines with 7/16" studs and 3/8" pushrods
Made in the USA
#TOP 9

COMP Cams 4851-1 AMC/Pontiac Pushrod Guide Plate

4851-1
Black
Extra Large
COMP Cams 4851-1 AMC/Pontiac Pushrod Guide Plate Cover
COMP Cams 4851-1 Flat 1 Piece Guide Plate for AMC 290-401/Pontiac V8 w/ 5/16" Pushrod 7/16" Stud

The COMP Cams Guide Plate is designed to support high-performance engines that use high lift camshafts and strong valve springs. It helps keep your pushrods aligned properly, which is essential for engines under heavy stress. The guide plate is made with precise stud placement and smooth contact points, ensuring it fits perfectly and reduces wear on your components. Using advanced prototype techniques, this guide plate offers an accurate fit and is built tough with a hardened, black oxide finish, giving you durability and long-lasting performance. It’s a reliable upgrade for Pontiac and AMC engines needing strong pushrod support.

What We Like
High lift engine support
Precise stud placement
Reduced component wear
Accurate fit design
Durable hardened finish
#TOP 10

PRW 1135101 Pushrod Guide Plate for Ford Engines

PRW
1135101
Black Oxide
PRW 1135101 Pushrod Guide Plate for Ford Engines Cover
PRW 1135101 5/16" Pushrod Guide Plate for Ford 351C, 351M, 400M 1970-74

The PRW 1135101 Pushrod Guide Plate is an auto part designed for Ford engines 351C, 351M, and 400M between 1970 to 1974. It comes in a package quantity of one and weighs 0.8 lb. The product dimensions are 18.796 cm L x 14.223 cm W x 0.762 cm H. It falls under the category of Engine Push Rod Guide Plates.

What We Like
Compatible with specific Ford engine models and years
Compact and lightweight
Easy to install
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What do pushrod guide plates do?

Pushrod guide plates are components that keep the pushrods aligned with the lifter cups and rocker arms in an engine. They prevent the pushrods from deflecting or moving sideways, ensuring proper operation. These guide plates are hardened to withstand wear and prolong their lifespan.

2. Do I need hardened pushrods with guide plates?

When using pushrod guide plates, it is recommended to also use hardened pushrods. However, if you are using stock head holes, hardened pushrods may not be necessary.

3. Do pushrods wear out?

Pushrods can wear out over time, especially if they are exposed to excessive heat. If pushrods start to turn blue due to heat, it is an indication that they need to be replaced. In racing applications, pushrods can be used for multiple seasons as long as they are not bent and show no signs of wear.

4. Why can't pushrod engines rev high?

Pushrod engines typically have two valves per cylinder, which limits their ability to take in enough air at higher rpm. This lack of airflow restricts the engine's ability to rev high. Most mass-market engines feature this design to maintain simplicity and cost-effectiveness.

5. What does changing pushrod length do?

Changing the pushrod length can have an impact on power production in the engine. Longer pushrods have been found to enhance power above a certain rpm range. However, they may produce similar peak torque numbers compared to other pushrod lengths. The effect of changing pushrod length is similar to adjusting valve lash in a conventional small-block engine.

6. Why use longer pushrods?

Using longer pushrods can help enhance power production in the engine, particularly at higher rpm ranges. However, it is important to note that longer pushrods may not significantly affect peak torque numbers. The change in pushrod length can have a similar effect to adjusting valve lash in a conventional small-block engine.

7. Why do I keep bending pushrods?

Bending pushrods can be a result of improper valve adjustment. If the valves are not adjusted correctly, it can lead to excessive force being applied to the pushrods, causing them to bend over time. Proper valve adjustment is crucial for the smooth operation and longevity of the pushrods.

Editor's Notes

During our performance push rod guide plates research, we found 24 performance push rod guide plates products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 4,925 customer reviews through our big data system to write the performance push rod guide plates list. We found that most customers choose performance push rod guide plates with an average price of $39.63.

The performance push rod guide plates are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of performance push rod guide plates, including Allstar Performance, Comp Cams, Edelbrock, Manley, PRW. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Robert Reyes Avatar

Robert Reyes is a dedicated writer from San Francisco with a bachelor of degree in mechanics and a bachelor of degree in marketing. He focuses on making some complicated topics simple and enjoys explaining complex and technical things in an easy-to-understand way.