Hydraulic Lifter, BMW - E36 318i/325i

Each valve on the M42 and M50 BMW engines is operated by engine oil and one of these lifter buckets (also called a cam follower).

The M52/S50/S52 lifter can also be used instead of this part number. It is slightly lighter which means better performance and less wear and tear.

A failed lifter is usually stuck or bound up with the valve either fully closed or fully open. You can usually hear the distinctive "pumping" sound from the valve cover if one or more lifters are stuck without oil. You may also have a fault code for misfires or rich condition to accompany the sound. Lifters may be unstuck manually or can be rebuilt. But these are normal wear items and should be replaced at some point, especially if run dry of oil. A fresh head rebuild should have new lifters. New performance cams often require new lifters due to their performance specs.

It's a good idea to pre-soak a lifter in engine oil overnight before installing into your engine. This will prime the lifter for better valve clearance on the initial startup as well as coat the inside and outside in oil. Any excess oil will be squeezed out when you install your cam and rotate the engine. If the engine will sit assembled for some time coat the lifter in engine assembly lube.

This is a Genuine BMW hydraulic lifter with a two year warranty. Buying a Genuine part will usually be more expensive than an OEM or aftermarket brand but you are assured that it meets BMW's designs for fitment, performance, and longevity. It will also be the very latest design, incorporating any updates or revisions that an aftermarket brand typically will ignore.

Price is per lifter.