Hydraulic lifters - IHRA crate motors

[Robert Swartz]

Originally Posted by Woodro Josey

Robert, i would say any of the more popular lifters are good as there is only about 3 lifter companys anyway, but the main thing to keep in mind is Valve Spring pressure and not to have to much until you get the Camshaft broke in because if not done correctly, it could get very ugly and expensive!

Thanks Woodro. That's kind of what I thought. I've heard of guys running less than full pressure valve springs, some take out the inner spring. Have also heard of lower ratio rockers for this same purpose. It's been well over 20+ years since I've built one of these type motors, with hydraulic or flat tappets. I've had it recommended to me to use either Rotella or Castrol diesel motor oils, as these are the only ones that still contain zinc for the break in. Then run this with a mix of a regular oil or make sure I run a zinc additive when I change the oil.

Is the break in procedure still the same as the old days, we used to fire the motor and bring it up to about 2-2500 rpm and hold that for 10-20 minutes? This would allow the cam and lifters to take a set. I may be using a used camshaft, that's contingent on whether one of the people I've spoken with has an old spare for this combination. Otherwise, it will be a new cam.