Lifter (Tappet) conversion '87 2.3-19v
 

Hi all, I have a 1987 2.3-16v Cossie and my compression readings are 5.5 across the four instead of 9-ish which kinda explains the crap starting and lack of power under 4,000rpm, I don't use any oil or leave a trail of smoke so I guess rings and valve seals are OK it must be tight valve clearences as they are manual shim type. If I am going to lift the cams out, as one must, to change the shims I was wondering if one could fit the post 1988 hydraulic lifters instead as these are a 'fit and forget' item or does it mean a head swap?
any one know?
Peter

Usually the cam profile is different for hydraulic or shim tappets.

Can't swap to hydraulic.

These engines require periodic valve checks and adjustments, or they eat the valves and seats. You can do the check without taking the camshafts out. You should do it right away. If the clearance gets to tight, you will be doing a head rebuild job. Not the end of the world, but not an afternoon project. I have done three now. Only one because of a problem with the valves. One due to a faulty thermostat and an overheating incident, and one because the head had to come off to get the front cover off. Believe me the valve adjustment is much easier. Jim

many thanks, re-shim it is then, and after tea

Various Kawasaki and Peugeot (not in the US) vehicles use the same 13mm valve shims as the 16 valve. They are usually cheaper than Mercedes.

shims
 

Thanks for the tip on the Kawasaki etc shims ;)

I believe that the 16v head is built by cosworth and shares very little with the standard mercedes head.

Tom W