What is a lifter in an engine?

A lifter, also known as a tappet or cam follower, is a small component in an engine that is used to transmit motion from the camshaft to the valves. The lifter moves up and down in response to the movement of the camshaft, which in turn opens and closes the valves in the engine.

There are different types of lifters, including hydraulic lifters and mechanical lifters. Hydraulic lifters use oil pressure to help reduce the amount of mechanical noise in the engine, while mechanical lifters rely on a solid connection to the camshaft and require periodic adjustment.

The lifter plays a crucial role in the operation of an engine by allowing the valves to open and close at the correct times, which helps to control the flow of air and fuel into the combustion chamber. If a lifter is not functioning properly, it can cause a variety of issues, including reduced engine performance, increased noise, and potential damage to other engine components.

Regular maintenance and inspection of lifters is important to ensure the smooth operation of an engine and avoid costly repairs in the future.