The problem is that lots of times the engine won't run right if at all
when first set to either 1-1/2 or 2 turns. It can take time for full
lifters to bleed down a little. Turning in the screw on a lifter that is
fully expanded and filled with oil just opens the valve and then
compression can be low or even zero. Wait some hours or days and the
constant pressure from the valve spring will force some oil to escape
from the lifter and eventually things will be ok. This problem is why
over the years this topic has been so controversial here. A fully bled
lifter is too long at first because it has too much oil in it. Put that
lifter under tension from the adjuster screw and the oil won't compress
but the valve spring will and the valve will open. Left that way for a
while the constant pressure from the valve spring will eventually
squeeze some oil out, which is what is needed. Then when the engine is
started the lifters will pump back up but only to the right length.

Mark

David Kao wrote:
> Officially it is supposed to be 2 turns. I have tried 1-1/2 and 2.
> All worked fine. The lifter self-adjusts. there is really no difference
> between 1-1/2 and 2.
>
> David
>
>
> --- Jake de Villiers <crescentbeachguitar@GMAIL.COM> wrote:
>
>> One of those guys has made his living rebuilding VW engines for a long time
>> now.
>>
>> I'd go with his recommendation.
>>
>> On Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 7:54 AM, Mike S <mikes@flatsurface.com> wrote:
>>
>>> At 10:27 AM 4/30/2008, Chris S wrote...
>>>
>>>  Although I'm getting ZERO messages from Gerry again, I'm hoping
>>>> knowledgeable folks will reply to me directly.
>>>>
>>>> I'm confused about proper lifter adjustment.  According to Bob Boston
>>>> I
>>>> should do 1.5 turns past contact.  According to Ken Wilfy I should
>>>> just
>>>> leave the lifters set at first contact.
>>>>
>>>> Sooo... what is it?  And why?
>>>>
>>> 1 1/2 turns in from a fully expanded lifter. Because it allows the
>>> lifter to adjust itself in either direction. If you set it at "first
>>> contact," the lifter can't expand to adjust for a valvetrain which is
>>> getting looser.
>>>
>>
>>