The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop 235 Solid Lifters

My 235, 1955 engine has solid lifters and they and don’t have a hole on the side like those advertised, why? Can install those new ones that have the hole on the side of lifter body?

If you think you'd be more comfortable with a hole- - - - -drill one. The lifter won't care. Just put it near the bottom so oil can't be trapped in the hollow lifter body. That's the reason for the hole in the lifters you're seeing in the ads. If you're installing a new cam and lifters, don't trash the old parts. Both the cam and lifters can be reconditioned.
Jerry

I’m not contemplating adding a hole to my solid lifters. I’m concerned that if all of my lifters do not pass dimensional verification would be ok to install those sold by lets say Summit. Looks like my type lifters aren’t available.
Furthermore, would it be ok to mix my type lifters with those that have that hole? Anyway what’s the reason for the hole?

Like I already said- - - -the hole is to prevent oil from getting trapped inside the hollow body of the lifter. What brand of camshaft are you installing?
Jerry

Well. At this point I’m only planning to use camshaft that’s presently in the engine, which I’ve not removed yet.

Be sure to do a very thorough check on the condition of the cam lobes with a degree wheel and a dial indicator- - - - -if the lifters are showing any measurable amount of wear, the cam lobes will be worn also. Schneider Cams in San Diego regrinds stovebolt cams, but a Melling CCS-1 cam is a really good option if you decide to go with a new cam. It's slightly better than the 261 engine cam that was also used in the 6 cylinder Corvette, without a creating a lumpy idle and bad intake manifold vacuum.
Jerry

Thanks for the advice

Have been where you're at. Put a stright edge across the lifter to cam surface on the lifter, If concave, like mine, you'll be headed in a differnt direction. If convex, things may be OK. Hope it works out!