{"id":102989,"date":"2024-03-07T17:52:41","date_gmt":"2024-03-08T01:52:41","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogv2prod.wpenginepowered.com\/blog\/?p=102989"},"modified":"2024-06-24T17:57:24","modified_gmt":"2024-06-25T00:57:24","slug":"flat-tappet-vs-roller-advantages-disadvantages-and-more","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/flat-tappet-vs-roller-advantages-disadvantages-and-more\/","title":{"rendered":"Flat Tappet vs Roller: Advantages, Disadvantages, and More"},"content":{"rendered":"<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC \"-\/\/W3C\/\/DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional\/\/EN\" \"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/TR\/REC-html40\/loose.dtd\">\n<html><body><span class=\"span-reading-time rt-reading-time\" style=\"display: block;\"><span class=\"rt-label rt-prefix\">Reading Time: <\/span> <span class=\"rt-time\"> 5<\/span> <span class=\"rt-label rt-postfix\">minutes<\/span><\/span><style>.kadence-column_cb3639-15 > .kt-inside-inner-col{border-top-width:0px;border-right-width:0px;border-bottom-width:0px;border-left-width:0px;}.kadence-column_cb3639-15 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column_cb3639-15 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column_cb3639-15 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column_cb3639-15 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column_cb3639-15 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column_cb3639-15 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column_cb3639-15{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column_cb3639-15 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column_cb3639-15 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column inner-column-1 kadence-column_cb3639-15 qk-look-widget\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-ultimate-post-row ultp-block-d4deec  qk-main-wrap\"><div class=\"ultp-row-wrapper\"><div class=\"ultp-row-content\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-ultimate-post-column ultp-block-dd2b45\"><div class=\"ultp-column-wrapper\"><style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading_b156d6-b5, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading_b156d6-b5[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading_b156d6-b5\"]{text-align:center;font-size:20px;font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading_b156d6-b5 mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading_b156d6-b5[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading_b156d6-b5\"] mark.kt-highlight{font-family:Inter;font-weight:500;font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading_b156d6-b5 img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading_b156d6-b5[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading_b156d6-b5\"] img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"kt-adv-heading_b156d6-b5 summary-title wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading_b156d6-b5\"><span>Summary<\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Flat tappets have a flat surface that slides on the cam, while rollers have a roller to follow the cam counter.<\/li><li>One advantage of flat tappets is they&rsquo;re less inexpensive than rollers.<\/li><li>Rollers generally offer better performance, have a longer lifespan, and are more usable.<\/li><\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p>Tappets follow the shape of the camshaft lobe. They&rsquo;re also called &ldquo;lifters&rdquo; or &ldquo;followers.&rdquo; This changes the rotary cam motion to a reciprocating motion in the valve train. There are two types of tappets: flats and rollers. Older engines use the former, while vehicles from the 90s onwards use the latter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Flat tappets have a relatively flat surface that slides on the cam. Meanwhile, roller tappets have a roller to follow the cam counter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/roller-vs-flat-lifter-786x1024.jpg\" alt=\"roller vs flat lifter diagram\" class=\"wp-image-103706\" width=\"786\" height=\"1024\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/roller-vs-flat-lifter-786x1024.jpg 786w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/roller-vs-flat-lifter-230x300.jpg 230w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/roller-vs-flat-lifter-768x1001.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/roller-vs-flat-lifter-150x195.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/roller-vs-flat-lifter.jpg 1151w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 786px) 100vw, 786px\"><figcaption>In this illustration, you can see the difference between the roller and flat lifter and the way each interacts with the camshaft. | Image Source: Richard McCuistian<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Advantages of Flat Tappets<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The biggest advantage flat tappets have over rollers is that they cost less. They are often manufactured using hardened or chilled iron, which is less expensive and easier to make.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This makes flat tappet camshafts more cost-effective, as both types tend to have similar life spans if maintained.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Advantages of Roller Tappet Cams<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>On the other hand, a roller tappet cam offers an array of advantages compared to its flat counterpart. This includes better performance, longer lifespan, and reusability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Reduced Friction<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The design of roller tappets greatly reduces the friction between the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/camshaft\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"camshaft\">camshaft<\/a> and the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/rocker-arm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"rocker arm\">rocker arm<\/a>. A roller cam requires less horsepower to turn because rolling frictional forces are lower than sliding frictional forces. This increases the vehicle&rsquo;s performance because the rocker arm is responsible for converting the motion of the rod to open the valves during the engine&rsquo;s combustion cycle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/roller-lifter-illustration-752x1024.jpg\" alt=\"illustration of a roller lifter\" class=\"wp-image-103707\" width=\"752\" height=\"1024\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/roller-lifter-illustration-752x1024.jpg 752w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/roller-lifter-illustration-220x300.jpg 220w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/roller-lifter-illustration-768x1045.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/roller-lifter-illustration-150x204.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/roller-lifter-illustration.jpg 1102w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px\"><figcaption>This 2D illustration shows how the roller lifter\/tappet fits into the valve train and what it does. | Image Source: Richard McCuistian<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Better Fuel\/Air Charge<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Rollers hold the valve open at a higher lift for longer periods, and their shape allows the valve to open much faster. This results in better <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/what-is-a-good-air-fuel-ratio-chart-included\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"fuel and air mixtures\">fuel and air mixtures<\/a>. An appropriate amount of ratio between the two is necessary for the engine to efficiently generate power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"826\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/roller-lifter-guide-plate-push-rod-and-camshaft-826x1024.jpg\" alt=\"roller lifter guide plate push rod and camshaft diagram\" class=\"wp-image-103708\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/roller-lifter-guide-plate-push-rod-and-camshaft-826x1024.jpg 826w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/roller-lifter-guide-plate-push-rod-and-camshaft-242x300.jpg 242w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/roller-lifter-guide-plate-push-rod-and-camshaft-768x952.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/roller-lifter-guide-plate-push-rod-and-camshaft-150x186.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/roller-lifter-guide-plate-push-rod-and-camshaft.jpg 1210w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 826px) 100vw, 826px\"><figcaption>Diagram showing roller-type lifter, guide plate, push rod, and camshaft | Image Source: Richard McCuistian<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Potential for Power<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The cam profile of roller tappets has the potential to make more power. More area under the curve can make the profile more aggressive and accelerate the roller more than a flat one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While flat tappets are limited by their shape, there&rsquo;s no need to worry about the tappet digging into the cam profile with rollers. In fact, inverted radius profiles are even possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"article-search-widget\">\n<div class=\"cp-search\">\n<div align=\"center\">\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cld.partsimg.com\/image\/upload\/w_auto,dpr_auto\/carparts\/logos\/badge_wordmark\/full_color\/CP_LOGO_COLOUR_RGB\" alt=\"CarParts.com\" width=\"300\" height=\"56\">\n<\/div>\n<form id=\"cpsearchform\" name=\"cpsearchform\" action=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/search\" method=\"get\" target=\"_blank\" accept-charset=\"character_set\" aria-label=\"search CarParts.com\">\n    <input type=\"text\" class=\"keyword\" name=\"q\" placeholder=\"Search for parts on CarParts.com\" value=\"\" aria-label=\"Search CarParts.com\"><input type=\"submit\" class=\"btn-search\" value=\"Search\" aria-label=\"Search\">\n<\/form>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Lasts Longer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The design of roller cams gives them better durability, especially compared to flat tappets. Rollers don&rsquo;t rely as much on oil splash to maintain smooth operation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can Be Reused<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Rollers are more expensive than flat tappets, mostly due to the lifters. However, buying one is more of a long-term investment as you can reuse it again even if you damage or change your engine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-data443-irp-shortcode irp-shortcode\"><div style=\"clear:both; margin-top:0em; margin-bottom:1em;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/p0316-code-engine-misfire-detected-on-startup-first-1000-revolutions\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"dofollow\" class=\"u9367da07bcee3e0de2aadd310a40baee\"><style> .u9367da07bcee3e0de2aadd310a40baee { padding:0px; margin: 0; padding-top:1em!important; padding-bottom:1em!important; width:100%; display: block; font-weight:bold; background-color:#eaeaea; border:0!important; border-left:4px solid #34495E!important; text-decoration:none; } .u9367da07bcee3e0de2aadd310a40baee:active, .u9367da07bcee3e0de2aadd310a40baee:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; text-decoration:none; } .u9367da07bcee3e0de2aadd310a40baee { transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; } .u9367da07bcee3e0de2aadd310a40baee .ctaText { font-weight:bold; color:#464646; text-decoration:none; font-size: 16px; } .u9367da07bcee3e0de2aadd310a40baee .postTitle { color:#000000; text-decoration: underline!important; font-size: 16px; } .u9367da07bcee3e0de2aadd310a40baee:hover .postTitle { text-decoration: underline!important; } <\/style><div style=\"padding-left:1em; padding-right:1em;\"><span class=\"ctaText\">See also<\/span>&nbsp; <span class=\"postTitle\">P0316 Code: Engine Misfire Detected on Startup (First 1000 Revolutions)<\/span><\/div><\/a><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.kadence-column_4601b6-76 > .kt-inside-inner-col{border-top-width:0px;border-right-width:0px;border-bottom-width:0px;border-left-width:0px;}.kadence-column_4601b6-76 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column_4601b6-76 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column_4601b6-76 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column_4601b6-76 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column_4601b6-76 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column_4601b6-76 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column_4601b6-76{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column_4601b6-76 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column_4601b6-76 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column inner-column-1 kadence-column_4601b6-76 kb-section-dir-vertical kb-section-sm-dir-vertical pro-tip-widget\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\"><style>#kt-layout-id_249590-8b > .kt-row-column-wrap{align-content:start;}:where(#kt-layout-id_249590-8b > .kt-row-column-wrap) > .wp-block-kadence-column{justify-content:start;}#kt-layout-id_249590-8b > .kt-row-column-wrap{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-none, 0rem );row-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);padding-top:var( --global-kb-row-default-top, 25px );padding-bottom:var( --global-kb-row-default-bottom, 25px );padding-top:20px;padding-bottom:20px;padding-left:16px;padding-right:32px;grid-template-columns:minmax(0, calc(10% - ((var(--global-kb-gap-none, 0rem ) * 1 )\/2)))minmax(0, calc(90% - ((var(--global-kb-gap-none, 0rem ) * 1 )\/2)));}#kt-layout-id_249590-8b > .kt-row-layout-overlay{opacity:0.00;}#kt-layout-id_249590-8b .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep{height:100px;}#kt-layout-id_249590-8b .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep svg{width:100%;}#kt-layout-id_249590-8b .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep svg{fill:#ffffff!important;}#kt-layout-id_249590-8b .kt-row-layout-top-sep{height:100px;}#kt-layout-id_249590-8b .kt-row-layout-top-sep svg{width:100%;}#kt-layout-id_249590-8b .kt-row-layout-top-sep svg{fill:#ffffff!important;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){#kt-layout-id_249590-8b > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr) minmax(0, 2fr);}}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){#kt-layout-id_249590-8b .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep{height:px;}}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){#kt-layout-id_249590-8b .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep svg{width:%;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){#kt-layout-id_249590-8b > .kt-row-column-wrap{padding-top:28px;padding-bottom:25px;padding-left:16px;padding-right:16px;grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr) minmax(0, 2fr);}#kt-layout-id_249590-8b .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep{height:px;}#kt-layout-id_249590-8b .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep svg{width:%;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-rowlayout alignnone pro-tip-wrap\"><div id=\"kt-layout-id_249590-8b\" class=\"kt-row-layout-inner kt-layout-id_249590-8b\"><div class=\"kt-row-column-wrap kt-has-2-columns kt-gutter-none kt-v-gutter-default kt-row-valign-top kt-row-layout-right-golden kt-tab-layout-right-golden kt-m-colapse-left-to-right kt-mobile-layout-right-golden  kt-custom-first-width-10  kt-custom-second-width-90\"><style>.kadence-column_c00383-3b > .kt-inside-inner-col{display:flex;}.kadence-column_c00383-3b > .kt-inside-inner-col{min-height:45px;border-top-width:0px;border-right-width:0px;border-bottom-width:0px;border-left-width:0px;}.kadence-column_c00383-3b > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column_c00383-3b > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column_c00383-3b > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:row;flex-wrap:wrap;align-items:center;}.kadence-column_c00383-3b > .kt-inside-inner-col > *, .kadence-column_c00383-3b > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-image, .kadence-column_c00383-3b > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-kadence-image{margin-top:0px;margin-bottom:0px;}.kadence-column_c00383-3b > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kb-image-is-ratio-size{flex-grow:1;}.kadence-column_c00383-3b > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column_c00383-3b{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column_c00383-3b > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:row;flex-wrap:wrap;align-items:center;}}@media all and (min-width: 768px) and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column_c00383-3b > .kt-inside-inner-col > *, .kadence-column_c00383-3b > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-image, .kadence-column_c00383-3b > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-kadence-image{margin-top:0px;margin-bottom:0px;}.kadence-column_c00383-3b > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kb-image-is-ratio-size{flex-grow:1;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column_c00383-3b > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:row;flex-wrap:wrap;justify-content:flex-start;}.kadence-column_c00383-3b > .kt-inside-inner-col > *, .kadence-column_c00383-3b > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-image, .kadence-column_c00383-3b > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-kadence-image{margin-top:0px;margin-bottom:0px;}.kadence-column_c00383-3b > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kb-image-is-ratio-size{flex-grow:1;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column inner-column-1 kadence-column_c00383-3b kb-section-dir-horizontal kb-section-md-dir-horizontal pro-tip-item1\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\"><style>.kb-image_110eb2-d1.kb-image-is-ratio-size, .kb-image_110eb2-d1 .kb-image-is-ratio-size{max-width:45px;width:100%;}.wp-block-kadence-column > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kb-image_110eb2-d1.kb-image-is-ratio-size, .wp-block-kadence-column > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kb-image_110eb2-d1 .kb-image-is-ratio-size{align-self:unset;}.kb-image_110eb2-d1 figure{max-width:45px;}.kb-image_110eb2-d1 .image-is-svg, .kb-image_110eb2-d1 .image-is-svg img{width:100%;}.kb-image_110eb2-d1 .kb-image-has-overlay:after{opacity:0.3;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-image kb-image_110eb2-d1\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cld.partsimg.com\/image\/upload\/f_auto,dpr_auto,q_auto,c_pad\/carparts\/blog\/widgets\/protip\/services-icon\" alt=\"\" class=\"kb-img\"><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.kadence-column_e5ebee-e6 > .kt-inside-inner-col{border-top-width:0px;border-right-width:0px;border-bottom-width:0px;border-left-width:0px;}.kadence-column_e5ebee-e6 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column_e5ebee-e6 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column_e5ebee-e6 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column_e5ebee-e6 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column_e5ebee-e6 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column_e5ebee-e6 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column_e5ebee-e6{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column_e5ebee-e6 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column_e5ebee-e6 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column inner-column-2 kadence-column_e5ebee-e6 pro-tip-item2\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<div class=\"protip-desc\">\n\t<div class=\"help-tip\">\n\t\t<p><strong>Pro Tips<\/strong> are nuggets of information direct from ASE-certified automobile technicians working with CarParts.com, which may include unique, personal insights based on their years of experience working in the automotive industry. These can help you make more informed decisions about your car.<\/p>\n\t<\/div>\n    <div class=\"help-caption\">\n        <p>\n            <strong>Pro Tip:<\/strong>\n            Not to say roller lifters won&rsquo;t wear out. When they do, they cause massive issues with camshaft lobes.\n        <\/p>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Disadvantages of Flat Tappets<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>While it&rsquo;s relatively cheaper than its counterpart, a flat tappet is less efficient and is prone to breakage. Sometimes it tends to &ldquo;dish&rdquo; on the bottom and cause problems. When flat tappets do this, they sometimes wear the camshaft lobe to the point that the valve doesn&rsquo;t open as far as it should.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Inefficient<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Unfortunately, a flat tappet&rsquo;s design hinders its efficiency. The flat surfaces increase the friction between the camshaft and the rocker arms. This accelerates wear and tear, something that could be detrimental to a car&rsquo;s performance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Not as Durable<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>As mentioned, the increased friction results in accelerated wear. This means flats aren&rsquo;t as durable, even if they&rsquo;re designed to last as long as an engine&rsquo;s lifespan. It also means they need to be regularly maintained to be effective.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Disadvantages of Roller Tappet Cams<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Roller tappet cams are harder to control at high speeds and are tricky to install and maintain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Harder to Control<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Rollers are heavier than flats, making them harder to control at a high <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/what-does-car-rpm-stand-for\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"RPM\">RPM<\/a>. You&rsquo;ll need to support them using stiffer <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/valve-spring\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"valve springs\">valve springs<\/a>, but those tend to damage hydraulic lifters at high RPMs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The only way to prevent this issue is by looking for high-quality roller cams and supporting components. You can ask experienced mechanics, as they&rsquo;ll likely have more knowledge of what works well together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Harder to Install and Maintain<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Lastly, their complex designs make rollers harder to install and need better maintenance. While you can attempt to install them yourself, roller installation typically requires skilled mechanics or experts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Should I Use a Flat Tappet or a Roller Tappet?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/mechanic-checking-camshaft-of-car-1024x681.jpg\" alt=\"mechanic checking camshaft of car\" class=\"wp-image-102990\" width=\"1024\" height=\"681\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/mechanic-checking-camshaft-of-car-1024x681.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/mechanic-checking-camshaft-of-car-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/mechanic-checking-camshaft-of-car-768x511.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/mechanic-checking-camshaft-of-car-1536x1022.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/mechanic-checking-camshaft-of-car-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/mechanic-checking-camshaft-of-car-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/mechanic-checking-camshaft-of-car.jpg 2000w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\"><figcaption>You still have to consider how and what vehicle makes use of these tappets. After all, fit is an important factor when deciding which type to get.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Using a flat tappet or a roller tappet generally depends on preference. Flat ones are cheaper to get, which makes it the perfect purchase for those restricted by a tight budget.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And while it may seem like rollers are superior they&rsquo;ve been refined over the years to keep up with the demands of modern-day vehicles. Some flat tappets have better lifter materials and overall improved manufacturing processes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On the other hand, rollers are generally better as they enhance your vehicle&rsquo;s performance and fuel economy. Not to mention they&rsquo;re reusable and more durable. All these combined make rollers better for those who can afford them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Of course, you still have to consider how and what vehicle makes use of these tappets. After all, fit is an important factor when deciding which type to get.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Where to Get High-Quality Flat Tappets and Rollers for Your Vehicle<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Whether your choice is the flat tappets or the rollers, you&rsquo;ll want a high-quality piece that&rsquo;s worth your hard-earned money. Thankfully, <a href=\"http:\/\/carparts.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\" aria-label=\"CarParts.com\">CarParts.com<\/a> has you covered with our wide array of auto parts and accessories.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>All the products in our catalog underwent stringent testing procedures to ensure their long-lasting performance and durability. Choose from only the best aftermarket brands today and find what you need in a matter of minutes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Enter your vehicle&rsquo;s specifications into our vehicle selector to start shopping. You can also use the search filters to narrow down the results according to your preferred brand, price range, quantity, and more. If you have questions, you can also call us anytime using our toll-free hotline, and our team of customer service representatives will be ready to assist you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Get the best prices when you shop for replacement parts online. All our products come with a lifetime replacement and low-price guarantee, helping you get the best value for your money.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Don&rsquo;t miss out on the best deals on the market today. Shop now!<\/p>\n<\/body><\/html>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p><span class=\"span-reading-time rt-reading-time\" style=\"display: block;\"><span class=\"rt-label rt-prefix\">Reading Time: <\/span> <span class=\"rt-time\"> 5<\/span> <span class=\"rt-label rt-postfix\">minutes<\/span><\/span>Tappets follow the shape of the camshaft lobe. They&rsquo;re also called &ldquo;lifters&rdquo; or &ldquo;followers.&rdquo; This changes the rotary cam motion&#8230; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/flat-tappet-vs-roller-advantages-disadvantages-and-more\/\" rel=\"nofollow\">Read More<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":102991,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_genesis_hide_title":false,"_genesis_hide_breadcrumbs":false,"_genesis_hide_singular_image":false,"_genesis_hide_footer_widgets":false,"_genesis_custom_body_class":"","_genesis_custom_post_class":"","_genesis_layout":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[52,3747],"tags":[411,1608],"ppma_author":[2607,2985],"class_list":{"0":"post-102989","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-diy","8":"category-engine","9":"tag-camshaft","10":"tag-rocker-arm","11":"entry"},"acf":{"adrotate_specific_mobile_ad":"","adrotate_specific_desktop_ad":""},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.8 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Flat Tappet vs Roller: Advantages, Disadvantages, and More - In The Garage with CarParts.com<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Learn more about tappets and the difference between flats and rollers, as well as advantages, disadvantages, and more.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/flat-tappet-vs-roller-advantages-disadvantages-and-more\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Flat Tappet vs Roller: Advantages, Disadvantages, and More - In The Garage with CarParts.com\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Learn more about tappets and the difference between flats and rollers, as well as advantages, disadvantages, and more.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/flat-tappet-vs-roller-advantages-disadvantages-and-more\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"In The Garage with CarParts.com\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/carpartscom\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2024-03-08T01:52:41+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2024-06-25T00:57:24+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/engine-camshaft-check.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"2000\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1331\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@carpartscom\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@carpartscom\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"7 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/flat-tappet-vs-roller-advantages-disadvantages-and-more\\\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/flat-tappet-vs-roller-advantages-disadvantages-and-more\\\/\"},\"author\":[{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"$id\":\"4\",\"name\":\"CarParts.com Research Team\",\"jobTitle\":\"Expert Automotive Writer\",\"description\":\"The CarParts.com Research Team is composed of experienced automotive and tech writers working with (ASE)-certified automobile technicians and automotive journalists to bring up-to-date, helpful information to car owners in the US. 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Guided by CarParts.com's thorough editorial process, our team strives to produce guides and resources DIYers and casual car owners can trust."},{"term_id":2985,"user_id":1646,"is_guest":0,"slug":"richardmccuistian","display_name":"Richard McCuistian, ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician","avatar_url":{"url":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/richard-mccuistian.png","url2x":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/richard-mccuistian.png"},"author_category":"","user_url":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/author\/richardmccuistian\/","last_name":"McCuistian","first_name":"Richard","job_title":"ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician","description":"<div class=\"auth-social-links\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/richard-mccuistian-2681891b\/\" class=\"btn\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" aria-label=\"linkedin\" aria-labelledby=\"linkedin\">LinkedIn<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/user\/McCuistian\" class=\"btn\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" aria-label=\"instagram\" aria-labelledby=\"instagram\">Youtube<\/a><\/div>\r\n\r\nRichard McCuistian grew up in Alabama learning from his father who ran an automotive repair shop. Richard has worked for nearly 50 years in the automotive field as a professional technician, an instructor, a freelance automotive writer for Motor Age, ACtion magazine, Power Stroke Registry, and others (published every year since May 2000). He has developed training courses and written or edited training material for companies in the U.S. Canada, and the Netherlands, and even Bulgaria. He maintained an \u201cask a mechanic\u201d website for 10 years answering questions emailed to him from all over the world.\r\n\r\nRichard has an instructional automotive YouTube channel \u201cMcCuistian\u201d with 13,500 subscribers and over 1,300 videos. Much of his professional work requires photography and videography in shop environments, but Richard also enjoys taking pictures of landscapes, skyscapes, old barns and houses, small towns. He has produced a coffee table book of digital watercolors called \u201cMemories of South Alabama\u201d created from his personal photos, along with a dozen Christian fiction short original novels and a collection of short stories, all available in Kindle or softcover format. Richard has written a 2,500-word Bible study every week for the past 20 years and uses it to teach a small group at his church every Sunday morning.\r\n\r\n<strong>Credentials:<\/strong>\r\n\r\n<ul class=\"author-list\">\r\n<li><p>ASE Certified for more than 30 years in 10 categories, including L1 Advanced Engine Performance and Light Vehicle Diesel.<\/p><\/li>\r\n<li><p>Professional Mechanic\/Technician for 25 years with experience on diesel and gasoline engines, vehicles and equipment (including hydraulics).<\/p><\/li>\r\n<li><p>Spent 5 years in fleet maintenance, 20 years in independent shops and dealerships (VW, Mazda, Renault, Jeep, Ford, Lincoln), specializing in driveability and electronics for the last 14 years of his career at the same dealership.<\/p><\/li>\r\n<li><p>Senior Contributing Editor at Motor Age Magazine, first published in Motor Age in May of 2000 and every year since. He has won two International Automotive Media Awards for technical articles published in trade magazines.<\/p><\/li>\r\n<li><p>Has attended hundreds of hours of automotive training from OEMs including GM, Volkswagen, Mazda, Renault, Jeep, Chrysler, as well as additional training at events like KC Vision and MACS (Mobile Air Climate Systems Association).<\/p><\/li>\r\n<li><p>Taught college level auto mechanics for 19 years.<\/p><\/li>\r\n<li><p>Has written for automotive training companies (including course development work for training companies in Canada and the Netherlands) and has been hired to teach professional trade show technician courses at multiple training events in Texas and Alabama.<\/p><\/li>\r\n<li><p>While still teaching at the college level, Richard launched a new automotive program in Geneva, Alabama, setting up a dual enrollment department in a new building, organizing the shop and classroom, teaching morning classes to high school students for 2 years while still teaching at the college in the afternoon.<\/p><\/li>\r\n<li><p>Richard\u2019s college program at Lurleen B. Wallace Community College worked at professional shop speed during his tenure to prepare graduates for production level work in the real world.<\/p><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>"}],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/102989","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=102989"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/102989\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/102991"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=102989"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=102989"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=102989"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/ppma_author?post=102989"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}