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Replacing Tappets

Last post 03-02-2010, 12:49 PM by motorbill66. 1 replies.
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  •  02-25-2010, 4:48 PM 22907

    Replacing Tappets

     What is the C/W regarding replaceing flat tappets and retaining the old cam. I read all over the web that old tappets should never be used with a new cam but wonder if I can install new tappets  with the old cam. I see them for sale  in the catalog with no mention of having to also replace the cam. My cam looks great but the tappets show some wear.  . Thanks: KSD

     

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  •  03-02-2010, 12:49 PM 22951 in reply to 22907

    Re: Replacing Tappets

    KSD,

    Camshafts can look good and not be so great. Have it checked out. You can start this process yourself by measuring the distance between the heel (opposite the toe, or pointed area) and that toe. A caliper is the best way to do this, carefully used. If there's any significant difference between lobes you may have a wear problem. The fact that the old lifters are shot means that they have been rubbing the camshaft pretty hard for a long time. The tappet has to be relatively square to the cam lobe it engages. However you decide to go, use the best lifters you can possibly afford, as the old stock units just don't have the wear characteristics you'd like, and with an old camshaft you can bet they will be a mess in short order. I vote for a new cam. Look around. Several makers offer them at very reasonable prices. I would further suggest that you upgrade that camshaft to the next step above stock. This will not harm your idle, but will give much better performance. It's not really a "performance" part. It's just that we've learned a lot about cam profiles in the last few decades. I like the APT cams. They also make great tappets for use with thier cams. The website hasn't been updated since Hector was a pup, so call and ask for Dave Anton to get some advice and pricing. Tell him Bill Wardlow from The Motorway, Ltd sent you. He'll double the price! ( not really )

    Motorbill


    Motorbill
    From Lola to Land Rover, If it's British and has wheels, it's likely I've bloodied me knuckles thereupon