To isolate a noisy valve lash adjuster, place a length of hose or tubing near each valve while listening at the other end, or remove the
Rocker Arm cover and touch each valve spring retainer with the engine idling; a defective lash adjuster will be evident from the shock felt at the retainer. The most common cause of noise is dirt trapped between the plunger and lash adjuster body. Begin by removing the rocker arm cover, then loosen both rocker arm bolts at the cylinder with the noisy lash adjuster and rotate the rocker arms away from the
Pushrods. Next, remove the pushrod guides and pushrods, followed by the pushrod cover. Unscrew the locknuts on the pushrod cover studs to remove the lash adjuster guide, keeping the guides in order if multiple are removed. Lash adjuster extraction can be done with a special tool, a small magnet, or fingers on newer engines without varnish buildup; avoid using pliers unless replacing the lash adjuster. Store lash adjusters in a labeled box to ensure proper reinstallation. Clean the lash adjusters with solvent and check for wear; if the base is concave or damaged, replace the entire set. If new lash adjusters are installed, a new
Camshaft must also be used, and never install used lash adjusters unless the original camshaft is reused. For roller lash adjusters, check for wear and ensure they turn freely. Used roller lash adjusters can be reinstalled with a new camshaft. When installing used lash adjusters, ensure they are placed in their original positions and coat them with moly-base grease or engine assembly lube. Lubricate the bearing surfaces of the lash adjuster bores with engine oil, then install the lash adjusters with the oil orifice facing the front of the engine. Follow with the installation of the lash adjuster guides and retainers, then the pushrods, pushrod guides, rocker arms, and rocker arm retaining bolts, ensuring each pair of lash adjusters is on the base circle of the camshaft before tightening. Finally, tighten the rocker arm bolts to the specified torque and reinstall the pushrod cover and rocker arm cover.