Who Sells The Best Adjustable Lifters?

[Shadetree]

I had my 8BA engine for my F1 rebuilt by a local engine rebuilder. Shortly after the warranty ran out a lifter started tapping, then another. When we tore it down one lifter tappet had backed off an 1/8 inch and I could turn it with two fingers. I don't want to do this again so in your opinion who sells the best adjustable lifters?

[JSeery]

There is a lot of debate on that question. I have a set of Reds Headers (Johnson reproductions) I think are fairly good (tight). Some claim to have lifters that are so tight they almost can't be adjusted. Guess the best bet would be a set of original Johnsons, if you can find them.

[estout81]

Can't answer your question about quality. The loose adjustment I solved by first adjusting too tight then deform threads with a punch and then adjust to proper clearance. I had to grind a punch to do what I wanted it to do. So far it has worked for 6,000 miles. Just got back from a 1,500 mile trip! Hope this helps.

[Russ/40]

A dab of JBweld on the threads after adjustment solves that problem.

[40cpe]

I haven't tried them all, but I just installed a set of Red's hollow adjustables. I was able to adjust them to near adjustment out of the engine by a screwdriver through the lifter and a ratchet on the adjusting nut. They were all very snug and seemed relatively close in effort to turn. Hoping for the best.

[chap52]

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Got mine from Red's an have had no problems with them.

[JM 35 Sedan]

I bought a set of made in the usa adjustable lifters from Dennis Carpenter two years ago. Recently decided to use them only to find out that some were so loose I could turn them with two fingers, while others were so tight it was difficult to turn them with a wrench. Disappointing to say the least. Talked to the folks at DC about them when I was there two weeks ago, and they said send them back for replacement or credit. Vern Tardel showed me his method for tightening them when I visited his shop several years ago, but my thinking is this should not be necessary with brand new parts right of of the box after paying a premium price for them. I wish now that I had ordered a set from Reds Headers like I did in 2006 for a 59a build.

[john in illinois]

My engine rebuilder told me Jim at Red's checks the Rockwell hardness and torque to adjust for each one.

John

[GOSFAST]

We've been using the original "Johnson" tappets on EVERY build we've ever done. To date haven't had single issue, e.g., loose adjusters, faces wearing out, sizing, etc.

A very close friend of mine is "connected" to the owner of the original business, now called "Hyliift-Johnson", a division of "Topline Automotive". Their parts are still USA made and still no issues whatsoever!

They are located in Muskegon, Mi. and you can contact them at (800) 441-1400

Thanks, Gary in N.Y.

P.S. Happy Father's Day to all!!

[my4dv8]

There is a guy on ebay selling 15 used lifters , well if that doesn't bring up a red flag what does. Obviously no brand specified.

[Pete]

Another alternative is, buy the equipment and learn how to do them like original.

[Ol' Ron]

I hear Heads headers is closing down. That disturbs me. He sells good stuff.
Hope it's not true.

[40cpe]

When I bought parts a few weeks back he said he hoped to be back making headers again soon, and to check back with him. I was pleased with his business and hope he can continue.

[russcc]

It takes a little searching, but you can still find original NOS Johnson's. They often come in a Sealed Power or Wolpert's box, but are Johnson's. The guy who sells vintage Lincoln LZ parts had a NOS Sealed Power set. I believe he is PA. He is in the Hershey program under Lincoln parts. Got mine from Then & Now Automotive, in Weymouth MA. Came in an old Wolpert's box with the useless Johnson wrenches.