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'93 4.9L lifter replacement


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So my Caddy has had this loud lifter noise for a couple months (used to be tick-tick-tick but it's gotten so loud that it now sounds like clack-clack-clack).

Anyway, hubby the valiant one is going to replace it this weekend. It is of course located in the "back" so will not be as easy to get to. By his muttering "it's a big job" under his breath the other day, I can tell he's not exactly excited about it, however we will save a ton of money not having a shop do it so it's worth it.

I know there are many on here who are very experienced mechanics and may have even replaced a lifter or two on a 4.9. If so, got any tips or tricks for my hubby? We sure appreciate any help....

Thanks!! :)

PS: I don't know which lifter it is, but if that is important I can find out....

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He had me thinking it was this HUGE job, but it's not so bad. He's done lifters before on Chevy engines. He just wasn't looking forward to dismantling everything to get to it. He was pretty impressed when he found they are "roller" lifters like on our go-fast boat. :D

So all is well, so far, and I'm looking forward to a smooth quiet ride once she's done.

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Yep you are correct Bruce...just went out and checked on things and he said he's never seen an engine put together like this one (he's never really worked on Caddy's, but mostly Chevy's and Pontiacs). He can do this, but just needs some more info.

OK he just told me he needs to know the "valve guide torque specs and sequence". If that makes sense....it doesn't to me! :blush: Can you help with that?

I will try to take some progress pics......got a lot going on myself so may not get it all documented, though that is a great suggestion.

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Rocker Arm support, rocker arm, and pivot page 6A-8

1. Rocker Arms and pivots to Rocker Arm support

2. Pivot bolts loosely

4pt9_rockersupport.JPG

I have the shop manual open but let me know if he says I am reading the wrong section.

Bruce

2023 Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing

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Earlier it mentions: When installing new components, thoroughly lubricate all parts with an EP lubricant such as axle lube 1052271 or equivalent

Bruce

2023 Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing

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Thanks so much Bruce, he said that definitely helped.

He also needs the torque specs and sequence for the intake manifold, if you can find that in the manual....

We really, really appreciate your help!

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Good. I hope your repair goes well.

A shop manual for the 93 Cadillac Seville could be a fun gift for your husband. It makes the Cadillac a lot easier to maintain, and if you watch on ebay you can find them at reasonable prices and condition.

140.jpg1993 CADILLAC SEVILLE Service Shop Repair Manual Set DEALERSHIP FACTORY BOOKS

This is the factory shop manual which is printed for GM by Helms. Steer away from any aftermarket version, and although one can order new from http://www.helminc.com for $90. I would look for a nice used copy at a nice used price.

Bruce

2023 Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing

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You read my mind. Hubby just had a birthday, but it can be a "belated" birthday gift! The ol' Caddy has some mileage on her so I know this manual would come in handy. Can't thank you enough. Love this forum!

I'll be on the go most of the day so will not be able to document the process unfortunately. I'll give a progress report soon though, or let you know if we run into any more snags.....

Have a great Saturday!

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Project is finished...success! Only thing is that because the steering pump was moved, a hose got a small pinhole leak in it so now we have to fix that - small potatoes compared to what was just done! But she's running smooth and quiet now. Thanks again for your help Bruce!

Here is a link to some pics. One shows the bad lifter....

http://s1261.photobucket.com/albums/ii596/lindamarie8/My%2093%20Cadillac%20Seville/?action=view&current=IMG_1662r.jpg

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Good news. Here's the pic inline:

IMG_1662r.jpg

Good idea putting the cooling fan for the mechanic nearby. I could have used that trick lately.

Bruce

2023 Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing

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LOL, that was a side bonus, he actually used the fan to keep the cottonwood fuzzies away - we get them bad here - you can kind of see them on the lawn in the background of this pic, almost looks like snow....ugh. But it was hot this weekend for this part of the country....mid to upper 80's so it helped! It must be hot in TX if it's hot in MI!

BTW if you click "next" in Photobucket you will see a more pics, including the bad lifter. :)

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OH btw - I know this is totally off-topic, but in doing some internet searches today I came across a Pontiac Fiero forum (remember those?), and this guy actually shoehorned a 4.9L Caddy engine in his little Fiero! That thing must scream LOL!! Just a little interesting tidbit. Have a good night!

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Nice Job, what did he find was the problem with the old lifters were the rubbing elements worn or were the internals gunked up? Did he use a moly lube on the rubbing element for the break in period?, I assume he did given his experience.

I would check your oil pressure at idle for the heck of it, what oil viscosity are you using? The 4.9 can benefit from a DELVAC or ROTELLA 10W30 or 15W40 in the summer months due to the increased zinc wear compound.

Pre-1995 - DTC codes OBD1  >>

1996 and newer - DTC codes OBD2 >> https://www.obd-codes.com/trouble_codes/gm/obd_codes.htm

How to check for codes Caddyinfo How To Technical Archive >> http://www.caddyinfo.com/wordpress/cadillac-how-to-faq/

Cadillac History & Specifications Year by Year  http://www.motorera.com/cadillac/index.htm

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Thanks BBF, I'll tell hubby you said so. See the picture here for what was wrong with the lifter. Basically the little wire broke and the cap (or whatever that is) was making all the noise as it was loose. Yes he did use some kind of oil or lube (he walked out of the room and I forgot what he called it!) Sorry I cannot tell you the type of oil being used, but I would assume it's 10w30. Thanks for your suggestions, we should look into those brands. We are quickly realizing what a good solid engine this is and we should take extra special care of it! :)

IMG_1664.jpg

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That is an unusual failure, but a great catch.

Be sure to use the cooling system supplement in this engine (tablets or powder), the cylinder sleeves have orings at the bottom that can leak, using the supplement will help to seal them.

Pre-1995 - DTC codes OBD1  >>

1996 and newer - DTC codes OBD2 >> https://www.obd-codes.com/trouble_codes/gm/obd_codes.htm

How to check for codes Caddyinfo How To Technical Archive >> http://www.caddyinfo.com/wordpress/cadillac-how-to-faq/

Cadillac History & Specifications Year by Year  http://www.motorera.com/cadillac/index.htm

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