Johnson Lifters 2112SBR - Race lifter for GM Small Block

Description

Eliminate valvetrain instability, resist high-RPM valve float, and maintain precise valve motion in performance Small Block Chevy builds with the Johnson Lifters Small Block Chevy Standard Height Reduced Travel Tie-Bar Hydraulic Roller Lifters (Part # 2112SBR / SDPC Part # JLC2112SBR). Sourced and manufactured 100% in the USA from premium aerospace-grade alloy steel, this race-series retrofit lifter set delivers the stability and high-RPM recovery of a mechanical solid roller while retaining the low-maintenance reliability and quiet street manners of a hydraulic setup.

Configured in standard body height for standard OEM lifter bore castings, the 2112SBR features Johnson’s proprietary Reduced Travel (.093 in.) internal valving and quick-reacting disc check valves. By significantly limiting internal oil volume and plunger deflection under heavy valve spring loads and steep ramp rates, these lifters prevent lifter pump-up and bleed-down at high engine speeds. Coupled with heavy-duty vertical tie bars and precision oil metering, this lifter set provides race-proven reliability for high-performance street, drag racing, and road-course applications.

Core Technical Specifications

Engine Compatibility & Block Fitment

• Factory & Aftermarket SBC Blocks: Ideal for converting early non-roller Small Block Chevy engines to a modern hydraulic roller profile without factory spider trays or dog-bones, as well as factory roller blocks with standard lifter bore depths.
• Block Height Note: Configured for standard lifter bore heights; for aftermarket blocks with raised lifter bosses (such as Dart Little M or Iron Eagle with tall bosses), consider the +.300" tall equivalent (Johnson 2116SBR or 2126SBR).
• Spring Pressure Capabilities: Supports elevated open and seat spring pressures without collapsing or bleeding down, making it suitable for aggressive street/strip hydraulic roller profiles.

Installation Guidelines & Preload Protocol

• Target Preload: Recommended cold lifter preload is .035 in. (+/- .010 in.) from zero lash. For aluminum cylinder heads or blocks, set toward the deeper side of the window (.040–.045 in.) to compensate for thermal expansion during operation.
• Pushrod Length Check Required: Never assume stock pushrod length. Due to reduced base-circle camshafts, deck milling, and tie-bar seat placement, verify pushrod length with an adjustable length checker across both intake and exhaust valves during dry assembly.
• Valley Clearance Verification: Rotate the camshaft 360 degrees by hand during assembly to verify the tie bars clear the block lifter valley web casting and cylinder wall bosses.
• Lubrication: Generously lubricate the lifter bodies, link bars, and roller wheels with high-tack engine assembly lube. Do not pre-pump lifters with oil prior to zero-lash setup to prevent inaccurate preload readings.