Can Lifter be replaced without pulling the head?

Posted by Jim Kavanagh On 2022/8/26 0:23:27

My '52 250 has been plagued with an ongoing very loud lifter noise. I stopped doing anything (everything?) when COVID hit. Now I am back at it.
I have isolated the lifter. I wonder if it is possible to change a lifter without pulling the head. I am sure I can pressurize the cylinder and get the keepers and spring off (and back on). But will I be able to push the valve up enough to get the hydralic lifter out of the lifter cup? or is there just not possible to move the valve high enough with the head on?