You’ve popped your hood and asked yourself about the inner workings of your engine (sometimes literally); well, you’ve found your perfect destination. We at Allied Motor Parts find joy in exploring the inner workings that maintain your vehicle's optimal performance. Let’s take a closer look at the lifter, an important part of your engine's valvetrain system that really makes a difference! Whether you have years of mechanical experience or this is your first time working with an engine, we will explore the function and importance of lifters for your car's performance.
What Is A Lifter On A Car?
The lifter plays an important role in the engine’s valvetrain system. What exactly does the function of lifters serve in an engine? The lifter functions as a small cylindrical component placed between the camshaft and engine valves, which can also be referred to as a tappet or cam follower. The lifter plays a crucial role in converting the rotational motion from the camshaft into vertical movement. This movement is essential for controlling the timing of opening and closing the engine's intake and exhaust valves.
Think of the lifter as a messenger: The lifter functions as a messenger to move the camshaft's instructions to the engine valves. The pushrod engine design employs a lifter to move a pushrod, which then shifts a rocker arm to actuate the valve. With overhead cam (OHC) configurations, lifters operate by making direct contact with valves or using a rocker arm as an intermediary. Lifters are crucial components of an engine that enable proper engine breathing whenever someone refers to them.
2 Main Types of Car Engine Lifter
Lifters vary greatly in ability. Depending on your engine’s design and what you want out of your ride, you’ll find two main types of lifters: mechanical (solid) and hydraulic. Let’s analyze them step by step.
Mechanical Lifters
Mechanical lifters, often referred to as solid lifters, are truly the pioneers in the engine world! They’re essentially solid metal spacers that transfer motion from the camshaft to the rest of the valvetrain. These lifters need just the right touch when it comes to adjusting (lash setting) so that the gap between the lifter and the valve stays perfectly aligned.
Pros:
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Excellent for high-RPM, performance, and racing applications.
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Provide accurate valve timing and control for optimal performance.
Cons:
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Need regular adjustments to sustain performance.
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It can be noisier than hydraulic lifters due to the lash gap.
If you’re building a classic muscle car or a high-revving race engine, mechanical lifters might be your go-to. They deliver crisp responses, but you’ll need to keep an eye (and ear) on them for adjustment.
Hydraulic Lifters
Hydraulic lifters are the most common lifters on modern engines, and for good reason. Instead of being solid, these lifters have an internal piston and chamber filled with engine oil. The oil pressure automatically adjusts the lifter’s length, maintaining zero valve clearance at all times.
Pros:
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Self-adjusting—no need for regular lash adjustments.
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Quieter operation, making for a smoother, more refined engine sound.
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Reduced wear on valvetrain components.
Cons:
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Can struggle at extremely high RPMs (oil can’t fill fast enough).
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A more complex design can mean higher replacement costs.
Hydraulic lifters are perfect for daily drivers and most performance street cars. If you want to avoid the hassle of regular adjustments and prefer a quieter engine bay, hydraulic is the way to go.
How Do Lifters Work in an Engine
Now that you know what lifters are on a car and the main types, let’s dig into what lifters do in an engine and how they operate.
The Lifters’ Engine Dance
Every time your engine fires up, the camshaft spins, its lobes pushing against the lifters. Here’s the play-by-play:
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Camshaft lobe rotates: As it comes around, it pushes up on the lifter.
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Lifter moves: The lifter rises, sending motion straight to the rocker arm/valve (in OHC engines) or to the pushrod (in pushrod engines).
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Valve opens: The motion from the lifter opens the intake or exhaust valve, letting air-fuel in or exhaust out.
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Camshaft lobe passes: As the lobe rotates away, the lifter drops back down, and the valve closes.
In hydraulic lifters, oil pressure fills the internal chamber, pushing up the internal piston and eliminating any gap (lash) between the lifter and the rest of the valvetrain. This maintains the system's efficiency and quietness while automatically adjusting for wear and thermal expansion.
Mechanical lifters, on the other hand, rely on a set clearance. You (or your mechanic) have to adjust this gap periodically to keep things running tip-top. Too much lash and you’ll hear a tapping noise; too little and you risk burning a valve.
Lifters in Modern Engines
Engine technology advancements have led to the development of new lifters for use in variable displacement engines like those with cylinder head deactivation and displacement on demand features. Advanced hydraulic lifters in these systems can collapse to stop the camshaft from opening valves in specific cylinders to save fuel power when maximum power isn't necessary.
Regardless of whether you’re operating a traditional V8 or an efficient four-cylinder engine, lifters serve the same essential function: Lifters provide precision and consistency in valve operation, which is essential for optimal engine performance and smooth functioning.
Common Lifters Issues and Symptoms
Like any moving part, lifters can wear out or fail. Here’s what to watch (and listen) for:
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Ticking or tapping noise: Often a sign of excessive lash or a collapsed hydraulic lifter.
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Misfires or rough idle: If a lifter isn’t working, a valve might not open or close fully.
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Loss of power: Valve timing issues from bad lifters can rob your engine of performance.
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it might be time to check out our lifters collection at Allied Motor Parts. We offer high-quality replacements to get your engine purring again.
Why Lifters Matter: Performance and Longevity
When it comes to car lifters' engine components, quality and condition are everything. Here’s why:
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Performance: Well-functioning lifters guarantee that your valves open and close at the appropriate moments, optimizing power and efficiency.
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Longevity: Good lifters reduce wear on the camshaft, pushrods, and valves, extending the life of your engine.
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Noise reduction: Especially with hydraulic lifters, you’ll enjoy a quieter, smoother ride.
Ignoring lifter maintenance or using worn lifters can result in expensive engine damage later. Don’t allow a minor component to sideline your vehicle!
Allied Motor Parts: Your Source for Quality Lifters
At Allied Motor Parts, we understand engines thoroughly. Whether you’re restoring a classic car or keeping your daily driver in top shape, we have the lifters and engine parts you need. Our selection of lifters encompasses a wide variety of makes and models, and our team is always here to assist you in selecting the right part for your project.
Our customers trust us for reliable, well-machined parts and expert advice. Don’t just take our word for it—check out our blog for tips, tricks, and real-world stories from fellow car enthusiasts.
Final Takeaway
Yes, lifters are a small but mighty component in every internal combustion engine. They’re the unsung heroes that make sure your valves do their job, your engine runs smoothly, and your ride stays reliable. Whether you’re wrenching on a weekend project or just want to understand what’s happening under your hood, knowing what lifters are in an engine and how they work is key.
If you’re ready to upgrade, replace, or just learn more about lifters' engine components, Allied Motor Parts has you covered. Explore our range of lifters or contact our team for professional guidance. Keep your engine running strong—and keep on driving!
Key Takeaways:
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What are lifters in an engine? They’re the link between your camshaft and valves, ensuring precise timing.
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What role do lifters serve in an engine? To open and close valves accurately for optimal performance.
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What do lifters do in an engine? They transfer motion, reduce noise (hydraulic), and keep your valvetrain in sync.
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Lifters on an engine come in two main types: mechanical (solid) and hydraulic.
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Car lifters' engine components are critical for performance, efficiency, and longevity.
Stay tuned for more deep dives into engine tech, only at Allied Motor Parts—where your engine’s health is our passion!
