How to Quiet Tappets in a Car Engine

Tappets are small, mushroom-shaped components that are located in the engine’s valvetrain. They are responsible for opening and closing the valves, which allow air and fuel to enter the cylinders and exhaust gases to exit.

When tappets become worn or damaged, they can start to make a rattling or ticking noise. This noise can be annoying and embarrassing, and it can also be a sign of more serious engine problems.

There are a few different ways to quiet tappets in a car engine. The most common method is to adjust the valve lash. This is the clearance between the tappet and the valve stem. When the valve lash is too tight, the tappet can’t open the valve fully, which can lead to engine damage. When the valve lash is too loose, the tappet can rattle against the valve stem, which can make a lot of noise.

To adjust the valve lash, you will need a set of feeler gauges and a wrench. First, you need to locate the valve lash adjustment screws on the engine. These screws are usually located on the top of the engine, near the valve covers. Once you have located the adjustment screws, you need to use the feeler gauges to measure the clearance between the tappet and the valve stem.

The correct valve lash clearance will vary depending on the make and model of your engine. You can find the correct valve lash clearance in your car’s owner’s manual. Once you have determined the correct valve lash clearance, you can use the wrench to adjust the adjustment screws.

Another way to quiet tappets is to use a tappet additive. These additives are designed to reduce friction between the tappet and the valve stem. This can help to reduce noise and wear.

If you have tried adjusting the valve lash and using a tappet additive and the tappets are still making noise, you may need to replace them. Replacing tappets is a more involved process than adjusting the valve lash or using a tappet additive, but it is usually the most effective way to quiet tappets.

Here are some additional tips for quieting tappets in a car engine:

• Use a high-quality oil filter.
• Change the oil regularly. The oil in your engine breaks down over time, which can lead to increased wear on the tappets. Changing the oil regularly can help to prevent this.
• Drive your car gently. When you drive your car hard, you put more stress on the engine, which can lead to increased wear on the tappets.

By following these tips, you can help to keep your car’s tappets quiet and running smoothly.