Hydraulic valve lifters, checking
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 15 other vehicles, including the 2006 Volkswagen GTI, 2005 Volkswagen Jetta, 2005 Volkswagen GTI, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta, and 2004 Volkswagen GTI. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Special tools, testers and auxiliary items required
- Feeler gauge
- Wooden or plastic wedge
NOTE:
- Replace complete valve lifters only (cannot be adjusted or serviced).
- Irregular valve noises are normal while starting the engine.
Test sequence
- Start engine and let it run until radiator fan has switched on once.
- Increase engine speed to approx. 2500 RPM for 2 minutes.
If the hydraulic valve lifters are still noisy, determine which lifter or lifters are faulty as follows:
- Remove cylinder head cover.
- Turn crankshaft clockwise until camshaft lobe for valve lifter to be tested is pointing upward.
- Measure play between camshaft lobe and valve lifter.
- If play is greater than 0.2 mm, replace valve lifter. If minimal play of 0.1 mm or no play is measured, continue procedure as follows:
- Lightly press valve lifter downward with a wood or plastic wedge. If 0.20 mm thick feeler gauge can be inserted between camshaft and valve lifter, replace valve lifter.
NOTE:
- After installing new valve lifters, the engine may not be started for approx. 30 minutes. The hydraulic equalization elements must seat themselves (otherwise the valves will crash into the pistons).