Small parts have a big impact on engine performance.
For example, a good set of lifters will deliver consistent valve timing and maximum power with good oil control. To achieve these benefits, however, you need to make sure you follow the proper lifter installation procedure.
The topic is important enough that Summit Racing created an entire video on lifter installation. It covers new lifter prep, common mistakes you should avoid, and diagnosing lifter issues after installation.
Check it out:
I am replacing oe hydraulic lifters. Do I also have to replace.the camshaft?
Thanks
yes if there is any measrible ware
Where to face the hole in the lifter
The orientation doesn’t make any difference, Mitch. Flat Tappet lifters spin when the engine is running, Retro Roller lifters are Tie-Barred and the hole position is fixed when installed, while the OE Roller lifter can only be installed in one of two positions.
The most important thing when installing new lifters is to NOT soak them in oil overnight.
Install them without oil and adjust the valves. The lifters will fill immediately after starting the engine.
If you are concerned about starting the engine without oil in the lifters, prelube the engine through the distributor oil with a drill and pre-lube tool after adjusting the valves.
I recently found this out firsthand, Dennis. Destroyed my Howard’s camshaft and lifters after 10 minutes breakin run time. I’d never lost a flat Tappet cam in 50yrs of turning wrenches until now. I read the instructions which did Not mention soaking, only warned not to “pump up”, which I didn’t. I soaked the lifters for an extended period while I did other things to the car and never gave it a second thought as I had done many times before. When I started the engine it didn’t sound as good as I thought it should, but I was determined to follow breakin procedures relative to RPM and time. However, after 5 minutes it started to rattle and I shut it off, rechecked the oil level and waited a few minutes before starting again. After an additional 5 minutes and excessive valvetrain noise, I shut it off and pulled the valve covers. Absolutely no oil to the top of the engine and some rockers were loose. I readjusted the valves and ran briefly but it was running so bad (valves hanging open) I shutoff once again. By then, it was too late. 14 lifters looked like you put them on a grinder and angle cut. Don’t know why 2 lifters survived. I’ve got another engine with similar setup that I haven’t soaked the lifters, but I’m very hesitant to proceed after this latest experience. Thinking going Clay Smith Hyd roller who actually recommends priming their lifters with an oiler thru the bleed hole, then installing in the engine and priming the engine without pushrods installed before preload adjustment. Why wouldn’t that hydra locked the lifters just like my flat Tappet did?