Hi, since i sold my 97 A4 1.8t I have been looking for other Audi's and BMW's that might need a little work. I found a 99 a4 1.8tq that the seller says runs but might need the valve lifters replaced. I have been reading up on it and have found that a lot of people think that theirs need to be replaced but just use a treatment to solve the problem or flush out thier system. So what i'm wondering is, worst case scenario how hard are valve lifters to replace? I'm pretty good with a wrench, but dont want to tear it apart too much. can i do this with the engine in the car and the front end taken apart like when doing the timing belt, for easier access? I'm just wondering because I'll be in the area to look at a project BMW and might stop by, so i want to know what to look for to determine if the lifters are really bad. The seller seems like he needs to sell it pretty bad he has it listed at $3000 but he said to make an offer, it has borla exhaust, a K04 turbo a chip, and a new tiptronic trans but it also has 174k mi. Let me know what you guys think would this be a good deal for like $2000-2500 or a possible money pit - Nick

 

idk much about bad lifters, but depending on how old the turbo and exhaust is it would be worth it just to have thim if the car doesnt work out. but 175k idk if i would even mess with it its prolly be ran through its paces since it is upgraded...just stuff to think about

 

Yeah i'm kinda worried that it may be a little worn out, but yeah i guess i could part it out if needed.

 

if you actualy have to replace the lifters, you will need to remove: valve cover, cam chain tensioner, timing belt and cams. if you can avoid doing it, i would suggest it.

you will need to replace the chain tensioner, and do a timing belt job. if you only have to replace some intake valve lifters, it will save you from the timing belt job, as the timing belt is only connected to the exhaust cam. if you dont need to remove that one, you wont need to remove the belt. you can also sometimes get away with reusing the chain tensioner, though its best if its replaced while your in there. and you would need all new seals and gaskets.