I was wondering if anybody knows about changing out solid lifters on my Y-block 312 v8 to regular lifters... is it possible..??? Its a good engine but the solid lifter noise kinda sucks at times.. Just wondering if i have options..?? I love the look of the old school engines but....

 

One option would be to adjust the rockers. It's not that difficult to set them right and they do quiet down. That's the cheapest option.

 

Adjusting the rockers (or "tappets") is the ONLY option. Hydraulic (regular?) lifters need to be oiled, Solid lifter galleries don't have those oiling provisions.

 

I'm no Y block expert, but I seem to recall reading that the earlier blocks didn't have a lifter oiling provision to allow the use of hydraulic lifters. You might look into that.

 

If adjusted according to the factory maintenance manual, you'd be hard pressed to tell the difference between the Y-block's solid lifters and the hydraulic lifters of other engines. As mentioned, an adjustment is definitely in order. For five years, my 292 was running 3000 rpm on the highway, 40 miles a day, 5 days a week. I would adjust the rocker arms once a year, and even then nearly all the rocker arms were still within spec. With normal driving and use of an oil with zinc (or additive), the rockers should hardly ever require and adjustment. If you find yourself constantly adjusting the rockers, either the cam lobes are wearing flat or the rocker arm adjustment screws are loosening.

 

cool ill check into having them adjusted... If that doesnt work then ill take the next step.. Thanks

 

While you have the valve covers off for the adjustment, check the rockers and shaft for wear.

 

Im actually going to just pull the engine and go through it. The rear main is starting to leak so im planning on fixing it. I want to do the head gaskets, intake, adjustments that are needed and paint... must liven her up....

 

Very common prob with y blocks, I think part of the fix is the two piece hard seal and not the rope type.

 

I had to replace both shafts ,rockers ect. new for a fix on my 292 Y block. If yours are worn out they will never stay adjusted ,if you can ever get them adjusted. No oiling provisions for hydraulic lifters and i heard there was not enough room for them,that part i'm not sure of. Adjusted up right and do oil changes more ofter than todays cars and they will be quiet.