Are the valve lifters in an ea81 (from an '88 hatch) hydraulic or do they require manual adjustment?

 

Thanks much in advance!

'88 EA81 should be hydraulic - check for a sticker on the valve covers that says "do not adjust" to be sure.

All ea81s after 84 (might even have been 83 been awhile) are hydraulic. You dont need to touch them and you shouldnt.

83/84 Automatic including turbo

85+

 

All Hydro's.

 

GD

In case the engine has been replaced and the Hydro stickers are gone just pull one valve cover and look for the locking tabs bent over the adjusting nuts, don't touch this style.

I've had gasket kits come with those valve adjustment nut locking tab washers. Best to scope out the push-rods and look for the steel vs. aluminium w/caps. That will tell the difference for certain.

 

GD

Good point, I forgot about that detail.

You guys rock! Thanks for all the awesome info!