Questions and Answers

Chevrolet 1-Ton Lifter Failures Q. My brother-in-law has a 1996 Chevrolet 1-ton truck with a 454 engine and automatic transmission. The first engine had about 75,000 to 80,000 miles on it when the roller lifters failed. A reputable mechanic suggested changing all the lifters, which he did. At about another 75,000 to 80,000 miles the same problem occurred.

Due to the number of miles on the engine, he decided to swap engines. He put in a used engine with about 40,000 miles on it. Now the engine has about 80,000 miles and guess what? The lifters have failed. We are in the process of repairing this engine Is there some kind of problem with the 454 losing lubrication on the lifters? The lifters just seize up. He uses a 10W-40 oil and keeps the oil changed about every 3,000 miles.

A. I don't know of any past history of lifter failures in big blocks. Sounds like he may be using too thick of an oil. I'm pretty sure the recommended oil is 5W-30. 10W-30 can be used if the temperature is above 0°F.