Valve Lifters Cleaning and Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Buick Century. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Clean the valve lifters in cleaning solvent.
CAUTION: Refer to Safety Glasses and Compressed Air Caution in Cautions and Notices.
Dry the valve lifters with compressed air.
Inspect the valve lifters for the following:
- Bent or broken clip (1)
- Worn push rod socket (2)
- Scuffed or worn sides (3)
  If the valve lifter shows wear, inspect the engine block lifter bores for wear or damage.
- Flat spots on the roller (4)
- Loose or damaged pin (5)
- Plugged oil hole (6)
- Worn or damaged roller bearing
  The roller should rotate freely with no binding or roughness.
  
  Fig 1: Identifying Wear & Damage In Valve Lifter
  Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Inspect the valve lifter guides for the following:
- For cracks or damage
- Excessive wear in the lifter mounting bores
  
  Fig 2: View Of Valve Lifter Guide
  Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.