Lifter / Lash Adjuster: Service and Repair

NOTE: Before replacing a hydraulic valve lifter for noisy operation, ensure the noise is not caused by improper rocker arm to stem clearance, worn rocker arms, pushrods or valve tips.

1. Set engine to Top Dead Center (TDC) compression, No. 1 cylinder.
2. Remove intake manifold.
3. Loosen remaining rocker arm fulcrum attaching bolt(s) enough to swing rocker arm aside to allow pushrod(s) to be removed, then remove pushrod(s). Keep pushrods in order so they can be returned to original positions.

Fig. 21 Roller Lifter Removal:

4. Remove bolts from roller lifter guide retainer plate, then lift retainer plate from engine.
5. Remove roller lifter guide from lifter pair by lifting straight up.
6. If the lifters are stuck in their bores by excessive varnish or gum buildup, use a suitable claw type puller to remove roller lifters with a rocking and twisting motion.
7. Place roller lifter lifters in a rack so they can be installed in original positions.
8. Reverse procedure to install, noting the following:
a. Ensure the word UP and/or button is facing upward when installing roller lifter guide plates.
b. Lubricate lifter(s), lifter bores, rocker arms and pushrod(s) with oil conditioner part No. D9AZ-19579-A, or suitable heavy engine oil.
c. Starting with engine at TDC compression, No. 1 cylinder, rotate crankshaft 1 full turn clockwise, then install No. 2 and No. 5 exhaust and No. 1 and No. 4 intake push rod and rocker arm assembly.
d. Torque rocker arm bolts in two steps. First to 6-11 ft lb, then to 20-28 ft lb.
e. Rotate crankshaft 1/3 turn clockwise, then install remaining push rod and rocker arm assemblies.
f. Torque rocker arm bolts as above.
g. Ensure all rocker arm bolts are fully seated to their shoulder after tightening.
h. If any valve train components were replaced or intermixed, inspect valve clearance.