Hello i bought a set of lifter for my flathead at schneider cams. There was a note on it that I should make any holes in my block - but not where exactly. When asked, the people at Schneider said that they didn't know - they are probably red-headers lifters that they haven't installed themselves yet- really great service .... I also asked red-headers but didn't get an answer from there - a shame. can someone explain to me or send a picture where I have to make the holes ?! Thanks in advance Matthias
Here's a good pic from the Ford Barn, if I can make a link: https://www.fordbarn.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=171300&d=1395840941
thanks for the quick feedback. but i still don't know exactly whether i should drill the hole in the block or the lifter ?? the lifters have blind holes on the top where I can use a tool to counterhold. so i can hold the lifter while adjusting it.
I measured the height of the hole in the lifter when installed and on the base circle of the cam, and drilled the holes to line up so I could insert a rod to hold them from spinning while adjusting.
Drill the holes as low on the boss of the block as you can. Then make sure to remove any snagging warf from the inside of the bore as well. Many cams we use are regrinds, reducing the height of the lobe, which will be lowering the lifter in the block. Getting the hole drilled as low as possible should hopefully let the pin hit the lifter in the middle of its body, right in that slot. Don't rely on those four holes in the top of the lifters to hold a tool when you are cranking on them. The adjustable tip should be really firm and seems to make the stock Johnson-style tool slip out of the lifter holes.
The “tool” used to hold the lifters stationary is at best very hard to use. Drill the holes as low as you can get the drill motor in a low position. It’s not that critical to be precise with your new holes/much easier than using the “tool” that slips off the lifter too easily!! Flatheads Forever!
Ok - thanks for all the answers! Now I understand! @ flatheadjohn47: nice intake manifolds! I also milled one for the 4-71 blower. regards matthias
Here's a pic of where I drilled mine. No specific measurement really, just where they will work ok and make it easy to get at.