Hydraulic valve lifters, checking

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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 engine oil temperature has reached min. 80 ° C.
Increase engine speed to approx. 2500 RPM for 2 minutes.

If hydraulic valve lifters are still noisy, determine which lifter is defective as follows:

Remove cylinder head cover.
Turn crankshaft clockwise until camshaft lobe for valve lifter to be tested is pointing upward.
Check clearance between cam lobes and valve lifters.
If play is greater than 0.1 mm, replace valve lifter. If minimal play of 0.1 mm or no play is measured, continue procedure as follows:

Fig 1: Pressing Valve Lifter Downward Using Wedge

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN UNITED STATES, INC.

Press valve lifter downward with a wood or plastic wedge. If there is a gap of more than 0.1 mm until the valve begins to open, replace 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).