However, if you are experienced, here's a *general* overview. Specific steps may vary slightly depending on the exact engine (a 2.2L or 2.4L was common in the '96 Cavalier). Always consult a repair manual specific to your vehicle's engine for precise instructions and torque specifications. These manuals will provide diagrams and detailed procedures far exceeding what can be given in this response.
General Steps (Highly Simplified and Incomplete):
1. Safety First: Disconnect the negative battery terminal. Wear safety glasses and gloves. Work in a well-ventilated area.
2. Access the Engine: This often involves removing parts like the air intake, fuel lines (carefully!), and possibly other components to get to the valve cover.
3. Remove the Valve Cover: Carefully remove the valve cover bolts, taking note of their location and order. There's likely a gasket underneath; replace this with a new one.
4. Remove the Rocker Arms and Pushrods: Carefully remove the rocker arms and pushrods. Keep them organized to avoid mix-ups during reassembly. Note their position relative to each other and the lifters.
5. Remove the Lifters: The lifters are usually located in bores in the engine block, below the pushrods. You might need special tools to remove them, perhaps a lifter removal tool or even a magnet. Be careful not to damage the lifter bores.
6. Install New Lifters: Install the new lifters, ensuring they are seated correctly.
7. Reinstall Pushrods and Rocker Arms: Carefully reinstall the pushrods and rocker arms in their original positions.
8. Reinstall the Valve Cover: Install the new valve cover gasket and carefully replace the valve cover, tightening the bolts to the manufacturer's specifications.
9. Reconnect Components: Reinstall all removed components, like the air intake and fuel lines.
10. Check for Leaks: After reassembly, check for any leaks around the valve cover gasket or other connections.
11. Prime the Oil System (Crucial): Before starting the engine, it is vital to prime the oil system to ensure the lifters are properly lubricated. This often involves cranking the engine over (with the ignition OFF) for several seconds several times, allowing oil to flow to the lifters. Check your repair manual for specific priming instructions.
12. Start the Engine: Start the engine and listen for any unusual noises. Check for leaks. Let the engine run for a while to ensure proper oil pressure and lifter operation.
Important Considerations:
* Repair Manual: This is absolutely crucial. A Haynes or Chilton manual specific to your 1996 Chevy Cavalier is essential for detailed instructions, torque specifications, and diagrams.
* Tools: You will need a variety of tools, including sockets, wrenches, screwdrivers, possibly a lifter removal tool, and possibly a torque wrench.
* Cleanliness: Keep everything clean to prevent debris from entering the engine.
* Oil: Use the correct type and weight of engine oil specified in your owner's manual.
This is a very simplified overview. The actual process is far more complex and requires a thorough understanding of engine mechanics. Again, if you're not comfortable with this level of automotive repair, take your car to a qualified mechanic. Attempting this repair without proper knowledge and tools could cause serious damage to your engine.
