A device that eliminates the need for mechanical clearance inthe valve train of internal combustion engines. Clearance isnormally required to prevent the valve''s being held open anddestroyed as the valve train undergoes thermal expansion. However,clearance requires frequent adjustment and is responsible for muchoperating noise. The hydraulic lifter is a telescoping compressionstrut in the linkage between cam and valve, consisting of a pistonand cylinder . When no opening load exists, a weak springmoves the piston, extending the strut and eliminating anyclearance. This action sucks oil into the cylinder past a checkvalve. The trapped oil transmits the valve-opening forces withlittle deflection. A slight leakage of oil during lift shortens thestrut, assuring valve closure. The leakage oil is replaced as thespring again extends the strut at no load. It is suitable forsuzuki.