Re: Engine "Freshen Up" Questions???

Posted by Rusty O\'Toole On 2015/3/31 15:52:53

Flathead engines are easy on camshafts and valve lifters due to the light weight of the valve train, and light valve springs. Cams and lifters seldom wear unless maintenance is neglected over high mileage.

Hydraulic lifters not necessary. I would prefer solids as they are trouble free and reliable, and only need adjusting every 20,000 or 30,000 miles if that. I have noticed that solid lifter engines are just as quiet as hydraulics, and they stay that way for the life of the engine if adjusted periodically. Hydraulics always get noisy eventually, and can easily get stuck on an engine that is out of commission for long periods. An old solid lifter engine, properly maintained, is quieter than an old hydraulic lifter engine.

Only if adjustments are never done, does the solid lifter engine get noisy.

Cylinder wear up to .007 it is ok to hone and put in new rings. There used to be special rings that would work with cylinders worn .010 or larger but I don't think they are available anymore.