VCCA Home Forums TECHNICAL - 1945 AND NEWER 1949-1954 lifter noise

When I first started my 235 1953 engine with hydraulic lifters (after I had it rebuilt) it ran fine, however I never exceeded 55 mph during the break in period. I have 700 miles on the engine now and if I don't exceed 55 mph, all is well. If I travel 60 mph for any length of time, I have a lifter that starts to make noise. Once I slow down and idle for 2 minutes, the sound goes away. Any ideas on what is causing this?

The head was completely re done at a machine shop with new valve guides, hardened seats, etc.

This is a rather common problem with these engines.
There may be a bad lifter.All lifters can be replaced or run the engine till the lifter makes noise-remove the valve cover and feel the rocker arm making noise.Use a glove or rag as will be hot.Note that 1953 lifters are not the same as 1954 - and 1954 lifters should not be used in a 1950-53 engine.
Too thin of oil can also cause this-use
a 10W30.
These are the areas where I had the problem and cured it.

This was also a problem when the cars were newer.When I was in the dealership back then we had some that did this and a cure was never found.