Had that problem 2 weeks ago on my 85 Westy.  Went to the local auto parts
store and bought a valve quieter product called VALVE MEDIC.  Added it to
the oil after the engine was at normal operating temperature.  Ran the
engine for 15 minutes more and the valve noise was gone.  Needlesss to say,
I was elated.  Wish you luck.  Jose

-----Original Message-----
From: Kenn Draymon <Kenn_Draymon@BCTEL.COM>
To: Vanagon@VANAGON.COM <Vanagon@VANAGON.COM>
Date: Tuesday, March 10, 1998 4:51 PM
Subject: Noisy Lifter - to replace or not?

>I have an 85 GL 100,000 Km. with a distinct valve noise knock. The noise
>subsides somewhat when it warms up. I assume it is caused by a leaking
>hydraulic valve lifter.
>I thought about replacing all the lifters on spec, but wonder if anyone
>would share the benefit of their experience.
>Would pulling each lifter to identify/replace the leaking one be
>feasible/possible?  Or is the "shotgun" approach the way to go?