'61 solid lifters?????

[Mike B.]

New to vettes. Just bought 61 w/ 2x4's and was told it is correct 283 w/ 270 hp but I want to verify and document How can tell if I have solid lifters vs. hydraulic by looking ? do I have to pull intake or is there a simple way to determine. Is there a difference under the valve covers that will tell. By the way, I have pulled off the oil pan to fix leak and do see green stripe cam ( for those who remember the terminology of green vs pink stripes) . Is that cam correct for 283 w/ 2x4's and 270 hp?? Also the block is stamped CU. Is that correct? thanks for the help, Mike 53700

[Nicholas L.]

Re: '61 solid lifters?????

CU is correct for 270HP engine. I have had several people, who look at my 1960 270HP car, tell me they love the sound of a solid lifter engine. I don't know how they can tell.

[Michael J.]

Re: '61 solid lifters?????

My L71 has a distinct ticking tappet sound, especially under acceleration, not at all like my L79. Also, take it out and rap it up to red line, if the valves don't "float" you have solid lifters.

[Jim D.]

Re: '61 solid lifters?????

Solid lifters have a tell-tale "sewing machine" ticking noise where hyd. lifters have none. It's very easy to tell the difference between the two.