Astra 8v Dec 2000 - valve compensators

I may have to replace one of the hydraulic tappets ( Compensators). Every so
often when starting after a long rest, it sounds like on of the tappets is
lose and then fixes its self after a couple of seconds. I believe there are
tools which allow you to be able remove the rocker and tappets without
having to remove the camshaft etc.

1) Does any body have any advice as to were to purchase such a tool - Part
no etc.

2) Is this a relativly straght forward job or are there some potential
problems.


Thanks

 

Just guessing on this one, but I suspect the hassle of a one off job and
cost of a specialist tool is more than the job is worth. have you tried
asking round your local garages for quotes?

Mike

 

I would try giving it an oil change first using an oil flush to make sure
you get all the crap out and refill with a good quality oil.
How do you know which tappet is the noisy one? Not going to be cheap if
you have to replace them all and if the noise only lasts a couple of seconds
is it worth it?

 

Mike,

Yep local garage may be a option. Our local NetworkQ went bust. There are
now no local vauxhall garages close but I do use a small garage that gives
good service.

I have since found that the tool is about £10. Would still be usfull to get
feedback from someone who has done this type of job.

Alan

 

Yes Mark - good point - just planning for the worst if needed.

I have never had any problems previous with hydraulic tappets on other
vauxhalls and have completed may 100,000's miles without having to touch
them. I can live with the symptom provided its not a sign of a future
problem.

The car has only done 40,000ml and has been regularly serviced with no
expense spared. Must admit I only started to notice this in the winter when
I guess the oil is thicker + on the last oil change I did use GTX - slightly
higher viscosity than previous.

Cheers

Alan

 

That may well be your problem GTX is a 15/50 oil, on a car with only 40k
miles you should be using a 5/40 oil, your oil is to thick to properly fill
the hydraulic tappets when cold.

 

Paul,

I think you may be right, I just did not expect such a difference. I have
used GTX for years on similar engines with no issues.

I have also pondered on the idea that the loose tappet may also have been
caused by perhaps the residue oil leaking away when the engine had been
stopped for a long while in a certain position. As i said this only appears
every so often with quite a disitinctive knock whilst the compensator
adjusts.

I guess before doing anything else I will change the oil back to the orignal
Shell Helix plus.

Cheers

Alan