How to adjust hydraulic lifters or valves with the engine running

[riflessss]

this is by far my favorite video about how to adjust them, I never would've thought of using an extra set of valve covers with the slots cut out. :) great video :D

[algaretonsky]

heeyy i got that same exactly noise on my 350 engine as your adjusting, do you think i could adjust the lifters and valves to make that ticking noise go away? or is it something else?

[riflessss]

@algaretonsky yeah, if you adjust them usually the ticking will go away, if it doesn't then it's a pretty good sign that something else is wrong.

[snowman4839]

so is this adjusting to zero lash? and the clicking is when it's just above zero lash? I thought you were supposed to give it another half turn after zero lash? Or do you not have to in this case because there's oil pressure in the lifters?

[Oldsmob455]

@snowman4839 He loosened them from initial adjustment until they started clicking. Then he tightened them until the clicking stopped, that's zero lash. Then he went 1/4 turn more to pre load the lifters. People have different opinions on the amount of pre load after zero lash.

[vipexperformance]

@Oldsmob455 exactly correct - but most would adjust to 1/2 to 3/4 of a turn for preload - not 1/4. Is there something here specifying 1/4 turn? Just curious. Great vid by the way - the tool was the best part.

[Oldsmob455]

@vipexperformance The less preload you use the better the engine will run but there is a happy medium to everything and running to loose can cause chatter and premature wear. 1/2 to 3/4 turn after zero lash is a pretty typical and safe amount.

[Oldsmob455]

@snowman4839 One more thing, this was a aftermarket adjustable valve train unlike the original pedestal type.  This method is only for adjustable valve trains.

[The91Fairlady]

@Oldsmob455 Very cool video thank you for donating your valuable time !!!

[fuasshole666]

cool