Kohler CH730s bent push rod

[Exec98]

Lost compression on one cylinder. Took valve cover of and discovered bent push rod. Replaced with new push rod. Cranked the engine the new push rod bent immediately. I removed the lifter and it looked ok. Any suggestions on problem? The mower is a Cub Cadet 3235. The engine is Kohler CH730s. Around 2002 model.

 

[Exec98]

With also check the valve and spring by pushing it in. It seems to be ok. Not sure how to determine if the lifter is the problem.

 

[ILENGINE]

Did you bleed the lifter down before installing the push rod. When the push rod bent the lifter will fill all the way up. if not bleed down will immediately bend a new push rod because it is too tall and will bottom out the valve spring travel.