Lifter Technology Selection

Beyond the issues with the execution of the selected lifter system in an old Mopar block, how do you make the call for the more expensive, harder to execute roller hardware? I'm still learning so please have some patience. I get the difference between solid and hydraulic tappets and understand (I think) why solid work better at high rpm. So awhy would you go with a roller over a flat tappet? Reduced friction so more HP? Do hydraulic roller do better at higher rpm than hydraulic flat tappet? Seems solid roller would be the ultimate but it doesn't seem like many folks use them on street engines, or at least to the extent that solid flat tappets are used.



A solid lifter makes more power than a hydraulic lifter. Doesn't matter what face is on the lifter.

I didn't do a roller in my personal engine because it wasn't worth the initial cost or the maintainence. If you are running stock heads, it's damn hard to get enough spring load to control a roller valve train. I also don't do hydraulic roller lifters. I use solid rollers on hydraulic lobes.

From what you are asking, you don't need to bother with a roller cam. Unless you are talking about a hydraulic roller. Like I said, I don't use them.

In the end, if you are careful, and know how to start a fresh engine and have your **** together, a flat lifter cam is hard to beat.