Thread: hydraulic lifters always seem solid ???

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The lifters are always going to feel "solid" when they are properly adjusted and filled with oil. You cannot compress a liquid. If they are compressing at full lift they are bad.

You are trying to preload the lifter after it has been run?

The only way you can do this is with the engine running. If you tighten the rocker nut it will open the valve slightly... but this will pump down in a couple of cycles.

Your problem is not the lifters. It is your mis understanding of how they operate, and their adjustment. They will only take up the lash that is present.
If you try to tighten the lash they will hold the valve open for several cycles till they bleed down and there is "0" lash again.

Proper adjustment puts the inside push rod seat just below the retainer ring. (approx 1/32- 1/16).