Lifters (or tappets) and pushrods play crucial roles in a motorcycle's engine, particularly in those with an overhead valve (OHV) configuration. The camshaft, located in the engine block, has lobes that rotate and push against the lifters. These lifters, small cylindrical components, sit between the camshaft and pushrods. As the camshaft rotates, its lobes push the lifters upward, which then transfer this motion through the pushrods to the rocker arms. The pushrods, being slender metal rods, are responsible for conveying this movement to the rocker arms, which then pivot to open and close the engine’s intake and exhaust valves. This action controls the flow of air and fuel into the engine and the expulsion of exhaust gases, ensuring the engine operates smoothly. Lifters can be either hydraulic, which are self-adjusting, or solid, which require manual adjustments. Together, lifters and pushrods are essential for the precise timing of valve operations, making sure the engine breathes correctly and functions efficiently.
