To remove the lifters, first take off the valve cover and pushrod cover, then remove the applicable rocker arm(s) and pushrod(s) for the lifter(s) being taken out; if the camshaft is also being removed, all lifters should be taken out. Use a retrieval tool to extract the valve lifter(s), especially if the engine has high mileage, and keep them in order or mark them for reinstallation in their original positions. Inspect the lifters to determine if further disassembly is necessary. For the camshaft, position the engine at TDC compression for the number one cylinder and remove the distributor, followed by the valve lifters and timing cover. Before removing the camshaft, check for endplay and wear on the timing gears, replacing any worn components during reassembly. Ensure the timing marks are aligned; if not, turn the crankshaft until they are. Remove the camshaft thrust plate retaining bolts and carefully pull the camshaft from the engine block, avoiding damage to the lobes and bearings. Inspect the camshaft and bearings, replacing any worn parts as needed. If necessary, remove the gear from the camshaft. For installation, if the camshaft gear was removed, install it back onto the camshaft, and if a new timing gear is used, replace the corresponding crankshaft timing gear as well. Apply camshaft installation lubricant to all lobes and journals before installing the camshaft, ensuring proper alignment of the marks on the camshaft and crankshaft gears. Install the thrust plate bolts and tighten them to the specified torque. The rest of the installation follows the reverse order of removal. After installation, start the engine to check for leaks and adjust the ignition timing. For the lifters, lubricate their bottoms with engine assembly lube and install them, ensuring original lifters go back into their original bores, completing the installation in reverse order of removal.
