POLL: Why use a flat tappet over a roller cam?

LARRY70GS · Jul 19, 2013

I believe the TA Hydraulic roller lifters are made by Morel? Seems the longevity question should be asked of them, or Mike T?

More information about Morel. http://johncalliesinc.com/about_us.php

Gary Farmer · Jul 19, 2013

Iceman8.6 said: ↑

Yeah, but one thing that does exist with flat tappets is wiping out cam lobes. I know because I wiped one out about 3 and a half years ago. The end of the lifter was chewed up too. Having hundreds or thousands of little flakes of iron and steel floating in around in your motor is every bit as bad for it as some needle bearings. Had to replace all the cam/rod/main bearings and everything had to be disassembled/inspected/cleaned to get it all out. A big PIA is what it was

It wasn't available at the time but I would have absolutely went with the roller cam if it had been. The roller rockers are also quieter than the flat tappet cams and throw in the fact I don't have to worry about wiping out cam lobes its a win/win in my book.

As for the rollers I wouldn't worry one bit about them, they've been in use since the 80's. I've heard and read of a lot more flat tappet problems than I have roller rockers.
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All very true if you're going with a hotter cam and tighter spring pressures and fast ramp profiles. Roller is definitely the way to go.

But for mild (as was my point), I wonder?
I suppose either way would be suitable depending on ye ole budget.

Just some things to consider. All very good points.

87GN_70GS · Jul 22, 2013

LARRY70GS said: ↑

I believe the TA Hydraulic roller lifters are made by Morel? Seems the longevity question should be asked of them, or Mike T?
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They are Howard's, p/n 91460. But you won't find them cheaper anywhere than TA

LARRY70GS · Jul 22, 2013

http://www.howardscams.com/lifters Hmmnn, Made in the U.S.A.:TU:

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POLL: Why use a flat tappet over a roller cam?

LARRY70GS a.k.a. "THE WIZARD" Staff Member

Gary Farmer "The Paradigm Shifter"

87GN_70GS Well-Known Member

LARRY70GS a.k.a. "THE WIZARD" Staff Member

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