flat tappet vs roller

The flat tappet failures are caused by the oil additives (namely zinc), being removed through the years due to ever increasing emmissions regulations. Very seldom will you see a failure of a flat tappet camshaft as long as it is from a reputable camshaft company. Since the influx of some of the cheaper Chinese made stuff, there have been some failures there blamed on the actual shafts and lifters, but those are the exception. A good chosen solid flat tappet can actually make MORE lower end power and torque than a comparable roller, too. Here's why: Due to the roller lifter's extra weight, there is a good bit more parasitic drag to get the lifter moving. A standard solid lifter is MUCH lighter. I've spoken with Dave at Hughes Engines in depth about this and he has the dyno results to back it up. As long as you use a good zinc additive with your oil, you won't have a problem.