Pushrods are mechanical components used in some internal combustion engines to transfer motion from the camshaft to the engine's valves. They are typically made of metal and are designed to withstand high levels of stress and heat. In engines with a pushrod design, the pushrods help open and close the valves, allowing air and fuel to enter the combustion chamber and exhaust gases to exit. In a pushrod engine, the camshaft is located in the engine block, which is different from overhead cam engines where the camshaft is positioned above the valves. This design can lead to a more compact engine layout and is often found in V8 engines and other performance vehicles. Pushrods play a crucial role in the overall efficiency and performance of these engines.