How did a v10 push rod bend ? - 1998 Dodge Ram 2500 2WD

some engines have different length rods for inlet and exhaust
you have to set the correct valve clearance because if you don't the travel exceeds the spring length and so that bends the rods
you are well advised to get a workshop manual for the engine you are messing with

There is no way to repair push rods. If they are bent they need to be replaced. However, the hundred-dollar question is "Why were they bent?" The only thing that will normally bend a push rod is if the pistons hit the valves and compressed and bent the rods. If the push rods are bent, you should go the extra distance to inspect the valves/pistons for damage as well.

I've had the same problem with the same engine. Found that the cause was a valve guide working its way out of the head and up the valve shaft. This prevented the valve from opening completely. Something had to give and it was the push rods that lost. I've tapped the valve guide back into the head and peened the aluminum around it. So far the valve guide has stayed in place. Check both push rods in that head. Both will usually bend or break when the above occurs.

Yes. also check for a bent rod. sometimes the rod bends to make it short enough so it just wont push the switch all the way in the start positron. The rod should push AND pull real smooth.

There are two different size push rods on that engine. The longer ones are for the exhaust valves. If you have an exhaust push rod switched with an intake push rod it can cause the problem you are describing. Usually you will bend a valve when you get them mixed up.

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hold up rod bearings were did you get that?lets take it from the top.camshaft lobs move lifters on rotation,which lifters move push rods,push rods push valves up and down,which other side of valves push up and down valve stems,which open and close exhaust and intake stems.ok now were clear on that to see your push rods.take off your valve covers on side with tick.1.check for valve loosness.need a feeler gauge for this and specs for you truck to do this.because ticking is mostly associated with valve loosness or to tight.2.if rod is bad loosin valves but not off and inspect the rods for bends.on a flat surface.replace if bend.also make sure they to go back in same place.and repeat step 1.finally noise continues need to take in and checked possible internal damage.

I have seen this myself on a 3.4L (2.8, 3.1, 3.4, 3.5 & 3.9 are all mechanically the same engines). The valves may have a varnish build-up on their stems causing them to stick in the guides.