Lifter / Lash Adjuster: Testing and Inspection

Hydraulic valve lifters, checking

Note:
^ Replace malfunctioning lifters (they cannot be adjusted or repaired).
^ Irregular valve noises when starting the engine is normal.

- Start engine and run until coolant fan has switched on once.
- Increase engine speed to about 2500 rpm for 2 minutes (perform road test if necessary).

Note:
If the irregular valve noises stop but reoccurs repeatedly during short journeys, a new oil retention valve must be installed. The oil retention valve is located in the oil filter bracket.

If the hydraulic lifters are still noisy, locate malfunctioning lifters as follows:

- Remove cylinder head cover.
- Rotate crankshaft clockwise by turning central securing bolt on crankshaft toothed belt sprocket until cams of lifter to be checked are pointing upward.
- Determine play between cam and valve lifter.





- Press lifter down with a wooden or plastic wedge. If a 0.20 mm feeler gauge can be inserted between camshaft and lifter, replace lifter.

Note:
^ After installing new lifters the engine must not be started for approx. 30 minutes (otherwise valves will strike pistons).
- ^ After working on the valve gear, turn the engine carefully at least 2 rotations to ensure that none of the valves make contact when the starter is operated.