Lifter Problem

flathead4rd

flathead4rd

Well-known member
I have one (1) lifter that won't hold it's setting. Can this be fixed without having t0 remove the head? If so, all suggestions will be welcome.
 
Mr. GOOGLE says : "Green Loctite is primarily used as a high-strength, low-viscosity anaerobic adhesive for locking preassembled threaded fasteners." You can get at it by removing the intake manifold.

Sounds like it might work.
 
I assume this is about Johnson Style adjustable lifters. Never done it but if the threads on the lifter's adjustable bolt are covered with oil, its may be difficult to clean-off enought oil so the locktite wsill adhere ? Old posts here about this problem = one responce was to get the lifter properly adjusted then use a pointed tool punch to moderately "upset" the exposed treads on the lifter bolt enough that it prevented to lifter adjuster bolt from easily turning and getting out of adjustment. This at least would avoid removing the head to replace the lifter.
 
As always, try the "non-destructive" method first. And notice; the Loctite is specifically designed for assembled threads.
 
Belt and suspenders: Extend the adjuster to expose the threads that were in the lifter threaded area. Clean the oil from the threads with brake cleaner, Place a rag behind the threads to absorb as much as possible. Use a suitable tool to "ding" the threads that will be in the lifter when adjusted. Apply loctite and readjust the clearance.
 
40cpe said:
Belt and suspenders: Extend the adjuster to expose the threads that were in the lifter threaded area. Clean the oil from the threads with brake cleaner, Place a rag behind the threads to absorb as much as possible. Use a suitable tool to "ding" the threads that will be in the lifter when adjusted. Apply loctite and readjust the clearance.
Click to expand...

I agree, that is how I have done it.
 
I also agree with the double whammy. Last time you'll have to deal with that lifter. Glued, screwed and tatooed.
 
Thanks to all who replied. I just got this engine back in the car with everything hooked up and upon starting it up had a lot of lifter noise. Only sounds like one. I will try one or more of the suggested remedys. Only removing the intake will save a ton of time which at age 86 is important. Will keep you posted on the results. Thanks again guys.
 
If it was making noise on first start maybe it/they weren't adjusted correctly at installation. Maybe try an adjustment first?
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top