<VV> Re: zero compression update - worn vs good lifters vs new

[djtcz@comcast.net]

> Message: 1 
> From: "Sam & Marissa Andolino" 
> To: "Virtualvairs" 
> Date: Sun, 18 Jul 2004 10:39:20 -0400 
> Subject: Zero Compression Update 
> 
>> lots of trouble snipped << The lifter in the  #2 cylinder, that shares the exhaust lobe on the cam with #1, was deformed  and the cam lobe had a 1/16" groove on one side.  
> Is there a way to check to see if a lifter is bad?  Some people say do not put new lifters  on an old cam - would this be part of the problem? 
> 
Some fairly knowledgeable folks used to say a used lifter whose "foot" is convex is OK for re-use, at least on the same lobe it grew up with. In the older "Chevy Power" books (hiperformance/race info from GM) this comment was sometimes made.  "Good used lifters that still retain some crown or convex curvature across the bottom are very satisfactory."  One quick test is to put the "foot" (rubbing surface) against a real flat surface, or the side of another lifter. 
Unfortunately It is not clear if that means it is OK for used lifters on a new cam or even a different used cam lobe.
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There are some pictures of "bad" lifters here.  http://www.cranecams.com/?show=faq&id=1
They also condemn putting even good used lifters on a new cam.  New cam = new lifters.  With the sounds of that groove you probably need a new cam.
Keep the rocker arms and pivot balls together as matched sets.