February 6, 2025 — ud83dudd27 2013 Tahoe 5.3L - Non-AFM Lifter Collapsed? Seeking Advice!
February 6, 2025
🔧 2013 Tahoe 5.3L - Non-AFM Lifter Collapsed? Seeking Advice!
Hey everyone,
I’ve got a 2013 Tahoe 5.3L with no misfire codes and no DTCs, but it’s making a horribly loud tapping noise from excessive rocker arm play. This noise just suddenly started. It was not a noise that gradual got louder. I initially suspected an AFM/DOD collapsed lifter, so I picked up a lifter release tool and pulled the valve covers and intake manifold.
Here’s what I found:
The intake rocker arm on cylinder #5 has noticeable slack, similar to what I’ve seen in AFM lifter failure videos.
However, this is a non-AFM lifter, which has me confused.
I rotated the engine manually with a ratchet, and the valve seems to open and close smoothly.
When the lifter unloads, it makes a popping sound, almost like it's sticking.
Looking for Insight
Has anyone seen a non-AFM lifter collapse like this before?
What’s the most likely cause of this issue? Could it be a weak lifter, oil pressure issue, or something worse?
What should I anticipate finding when I remove the head? I’m really hoping it’s not a damaged camshaft.
Any advice or insight would be greatly appreciated! Thanks in advance!
1 Comment
85 Views
🔧 2013 Tahoe 5.3L - Non-AFM Lifter Collapsed? Seeking Advice!
Hey everyone,
I’ve got a 2013 Tahoe 5.3L with no misfire codes and no DTCs, but it’s making a horribly loud tapping noise from excessive rocker arm play. This noise just suddenly started. It was not a noise that gradual got louder. I initially suspected an AFM/DOD collapsed lifter, so I picked up a lifter release tool and pulled the valve covers and intake manifold.
Here’s what I found:
The intake rocker arm on cylinder #5 has noticeable slack, similar to what I’ve seen in AFM lifter failure videos.
However, this is a non-AFM lifter, which has me confused.
I rotated the engine manually with a ratchet, and the valve seems to open and close smoothly.
When the lifter unloads, it makes a popping sound, almost like it's sticking.
Looking for Insight
Has anyone seen a non-AFM lifter collapse like this before?
What’s the most likely cause of this issue? Could it be a weak lifter, oil pressure issue, or something worse?
What should I anticipate finding when I remove the head? I’m really hoping it’s not a damaged camshaft.
Any advice or insight would be greatly appreciated! Thanks in advance!
1 Comment
85 Views