I have heard noisy lifter(s) after the van has been sitting for a week or
two or three.  It goes away after about 10 minutes of driving. My mechanic
says that's perfectly normal and don't worry about it.  It takes that long
to get "lubed up".  If it doesn't stop, there may be a problem.  That's my
humble and limited experience.  Don't know if it's the same for water-cooled
motors.

Melissa Mourkas
Haydenville, MA
81 Westy 'Hildie'

> My '84 Westy has from time to time a very noisy lifter.
> I put about half a cupful of Marvel Mystery oil into the crankcase and
within
> minutes it is quiet.     Try it!    It may work for you too and its not
> expensive.
> Steve
>