Bad lifters, what happens? (not a tick question)

[highpsi93tsi]

If your Timing belt is still as tight as It was when replaced 2 yrs ago, then why upon start-up does it sound like someone wants out of my valvecover with a hammer? It sounds like VIOLENT lifter clatter(even after letting car sit 24hrs it still did it on start-up and with RPMs). Looked under VC and no damage/things flying around. I know to check the timing marks etc but I really think its a botched lifter, how do I go about checking them? Thankyou in advance!!

 

[GVR4592]

Check the timing marks first.

 

[dherron]

i had the same problem and my intake valves were touching my pistons. Just ever so slightly. still not sure what the problem was i got new lifters valves, none were bent, springs and the head machined and my problem went away. Alot of money but took care of it all.

 

[highpsi93tsi]

Thanks guys, lets say the timing is fine. How do I check for a bad lifter from looking at them w/ VC off? Thanks again.

 

[fourreGsixty3]

You can pull them out( remove rocker's), and take a paper clip, and stick it down the whole in the top of the lifter( used to get oil to the rocker's), with it in you should be able to depress the lifter's all the way. If they don't go down then they need to be replaced.

 

[steel_3d]

I try to wiggle the rockers, push down on them. That would show if a lifter is not holding pressure. Of course about half the lifters are compressed by the lobes at any one time, so you're not learning much about those.

 

[Defiant]

Timing can jump without the belt tension being visibly changed. Inspect the entire belt for damaged or missing teeth.