Method 1: Before Installation (Recommended)
This is the easiest and most reliable method. Before installing the lifters into the engine, manually pump them to pre-fill them with oil.
* Obtain a lifter priming tool: You can buy a specialized lifter priming tool, or even make a simple one using a suitable bolt and some strong washers. The tool allows you to compress the lifter and hold it compressed while it's being lubricated.
* Lubricate the lifters: Use clean engine oil (the same type you'll be using in the engine). Submerge the lifters in the oil.
* Pump the lifters: Use the priming tool to compress and release each lifter repeatedly until they feel firm and no more oil is pushed out. They should offer considerable resistance to further compression. This assures that they are completely filled with oil.
Method 2: After Installation (Less Reliable)
If you've already installed the lifters, priming them becomes more difficult and less reliable. This method relies on the engine's oil pump to fill them, which may take time and potentially cause damage if the lifters remain dry for an extended period.
* Oil the pushrods: Before installing the rocker arms, lubricate the pushrods with clean engine oil.
* Fill the engine with oil: Make sure the engine is properly filled with fresh engine oil.
* Turn the engine over (with the distributor removed or ignition off): Use a wrench on the crankshaft pulley (or the harmonic balancer) to slowly turn the engine over several times by hand. This will allow the oil pump to push oil to the lifters. Do not crank the engine with the starter. This method is much slower than using the priming tool before install.
* Listen for lifter noise: After several turns, listen for any lifter ticking sounds. Prolonged ticking can indicate incomplete priming, and further manual turning may be required (again, using the crank pulley). If ticking persists, you may need to remove the lifters and re-prime them using method 1.
Important Considerations:
* Cleanliness: Use clean engine oil and keep everything clean to avoid introducing debris into the engine.
* Patience: Properly priming lifters takes time and patience. Rushing the process can result in damage.
* Professional Help: If you are uncomfortable performing this task yourself, seek help from a qualified mechanic. Incorrectly primed lifters can lead to engine damage.
* Check the oil level frequently: If you use the post-installation method, check your engine oil regularly for the first few driving cycles. A sudden decrease may indicate leaking lifters (though this is less likely after correct priming).
Always refer to your vehicle's repair manual for specific instructions and recommendations. The above methods provide a general guideline, but variations may exist depending on your specific engine and components.
