I have rebuilt many VW engines and used reground lifters most every
time.  They aren't ground square, that won't allow the lifter to turn
with each cycle.  They are ground with a very slight dome shape.  One
way to tell if lifters are worn is to place two lifter faces together.
If they sit flat against each other, they need replacement or
regrinding.  They should rock a little when they have the proper dome
shape.  The main problem with regrounff lifters is that the surface
hardening, nitriding or Parkerizing is only about 3 thousandths deep.  A
regrind to get this slight rock back will take them beyond this hardened
surface into the softer, normal metal below.  So, some folks have them
Parkerized again after grinding for longest life. Some rebuilders don't
care if you get the longest life out of your rebuild.  Some rebuilders
try to maximize profits while minimizing what you get for what your
paying.  Remember, you don't always get what you pat for, but you always
pay for what you get.  As always, Caveat Emptor!

Mike B.

On 2/4/2013 7:41 PM, Dennis Haynes wrote:
> Back in the old days of engine rebuilding lifters were rarely replaced. The
> only real wear item is the face which in many engines will wear in and seat
> to the cam. The faces can be ground square and like new again on a "surface
> grinder". Waterboxer lifters are available new for a reasonable price. So
> except for saving a few to deal with a real failure in an otherwise healthy
> engine they may just be taking up space. To use this way you also need those
> collapsible pushrod tubes. If storing them keep them submerged in some type
> of oil or solvent so they don't rust.
>
>
> Dennis
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
> Kenneth Lewis
> Sent: Monday, February 4, 2013 12:32 PM
> To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
> Subject: Old Hydraulic WBX Lifters
>
> Is there any sense in saving these?
>
>   Cleaning out the garage this weekend I found a large coffee can  full of
> them.
>
> Ken