Push higher RPM with Solid Lifters on GR Corolla & GR Yaris (G16E-GTS Toyota Engine)

When it comes to maximizing engine performance, choosing the right lifters is crucial. When you’re pushing the limits on the track, understanding the difference between hydraulic and solid lifters can make all the difference for proper valve control.

Hydraulic vs Solid Lifters in G16E-GTS Toyota engine


Hydraulic Lifters: The Stock Solution
Hydraulic lifters, also known as Hydraulic Lash Adjusters (HLAs), are the go-to choice for OEM manufacturers and many aftermarket builds. They offer a significant level of flexibility, accommodating variations in base circles and valve tip heights without requiring complex adjustments. This makes them ideal for stock setups and camshaft upgrades like Kelford's EZ-TYPE and Type 1, especially when paired with our rocker retainers.

Key Advantages of Hydraulic Lifters:
• Easy Installation: No need to set lash, simplifying the installation of aftermarket camshafts.
• Flexibility: Ideal for stock or mild performance applications, providing a good balance between performance and ease of use.
• Maintenance-Free: Hydraulic lifters self-adjust using oil pressure, meaning less frequent maintenance.

However, in high RPM or aggressive performance scenarios, hydraulic lifters can hit their limits. They rely on oil pressure to maintain contact between the cam lobe and follower. Under extreme conditions, this can lead to issues like lifter “pump up” or “bleed down,” resulting in performance loss.

Solid Lifters: The Ultimate Performance Upgrade
For those pushing beyond the capabilities of hydraulic lifters, solid lifters are the next step. Solid lifter cam profiles are designed for high RPM and aggressive applications, offering a simpler, lighter, and more reliable solution.

When to Choose Solid Lifters:
500+ hp builds: If you’re running Kelford's Type 2 camshaft in your G16E-GTS, solid lifters are the recommended choice. These cams demand precise control at high RPMs, which is where solid lifters excel.
High RPM Performance: Solid lifters are built for engines that regularly operate in the upper RPM ranges, where hydraulic lifters may falter.
Enhanced Durability: Without the complexities of hydraulic oil systems, solid lifters provide consistent performance under extreme conditions.

Just like with our hydraulic lifter setups, our rocker retainers play a vital role in ensuring stability and reliability, even with the higher demands of solid lifter profiles.

Which One Is Right for You?
If you’re running a stock or mildly tuned G16E-GTS, or using cam profiles like Kelford's EZ-TYPE or Type 1, hydraulic lifters with our rocker retainer offer a balance of performance and convenience. But if you’re looking to unlock the highest RPMs and push your engine to its limits, upgrading to solid lifters is the way to go, particularly with the Kelford Type 2 camshaft profile.

Understanding the Incompatibility: Why Camshafts designed for Hydraulic Lash Adjusters don't work with Solid Lifters
It's essential to understand that camshafts designed for hydraulic lash adjusters (HLAs) are not compatible with solid lifters. Hydraulic camshafts are engineered with specific ramp profiles that rely on the self-adjusting nature of hydraulic lifters, which use oil pressure to maintain consistent valve clearance. When you attempt to use a hydraulic lifter camshaft with solid lifters, the lack of a proper lash  ramp leads to excessive valve take-up velocity, which can cause significant performance issues, including valve train failure. This incompatibility underscores the importance of selecting the correct camshaft and lifter combination for your engine build, ensuring that your components work together harmoniously for optimal performance and durability.

Rocker Retainers
Get the best of both worlds: No matter your setup, pairing your lifters with our rocker retainers ensures that your valvetrain components work with durability and optimal performance.

Conclusion
Making the right choice between hydraulic and solid lifters depends on your specific engine goals. For daily driving and moderate performance, hydraulic lifters are a reliable, low-maintenance option. For those looking to extract every ounce of performance, especially in high RPM scenarios, solid lifters offer superior control and durability.

Ready to upgrade? 
Explore our full range of products, including our lifter options and rocker retainers, to ensure your G16E-GTS is performing at its best. For more in-depth advice or to discuss your specific build, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team.

G16E Hydraulic Lash Adjuster with Rocker Retainers
denstoj.com.au/products/g16e-gts-yaris-gr-rocker-retainer-kit-by-denstoj

G16E Solid Lifters with Rocker Retainers
denstoj.com.au/products/denstoj-solid-lifters-with-rocker-retainers-for-g16e-gts-toyota-engine-gr-yaris-gr-corolla