Bob Trendler

I plan to replace the hydraulic valve lash adjusters on my 1999 5.4L. From posts my understanding is that the camshaft must be removed to extract the lifters. (I haven't looked yet but I'll assume that the cam is in the way.) But I'm puzzled why a valve spring depressor is called for in posts about this? I've watched videos that show that the rocker arms can be removed with a screwdriver. If so, why then can't the cam be removed without touching the springs? I'll admit that I have zero experience with this engine. I'm figuring out what's involved before tearing it open. Thanks.

Stroked93

You can change the lifters with the camshaft in place. Just pop rocker out and pull lifter out. No need to retime the engine etc. anybody who tells you otherwise hasn't tried.

TRD-Toy

True the cam doesn't need to be removed or retimed. You need a valve spring tool that has fingers to pry against the cam. Couple things to remember. Make sure the piston isn't at top dead center. Compress the valve down too far and valve seal damage occurs.

Bob Trendler

Thanks Stroked93. This helps. I was hoping that this project wouldn't be over my head or budget. So far, so good.

Bob Trendler

And thanks, TRD-Toy. More helpful advice. Looks now like I can do my repair.