Alien Engineering BMW M50,M52,M54,S50,S52 solid lifter conversion shims
This is the easiest solid lifter conversion available and has been tested for several years in M50's making over 1000 whp and 9000 rpms. This system uses hardened steel shims that are installed inside factory hydraulic lifters.
You 2 options for lifters.
If you want to use 33mm M52, M54, or S52 cam trays you can use used stock 33mm lifters or new INA 4200049100 lifters. Be sure to check the picture in the instructions to make sure your stock lifters are the correct type. There are two types of stock 33mm lifters and the other type are not compatible.
The other option is to use M50 lifter trays and 35mm diameter Volkswagen lifters, INA part number 050109309H. These VW lifters are the same dimensions as M50 vanos lifters but are much lighter at only 48 grams, which is the same weight as m52 lifters. The piston inside these lifters are much larger and will be ideal for severe duty race applications.
The shims install between the original lifter piston and cup so unlike lash caps it is impossible for these to fall out of position. If installing in an M50 you will need to use lifter trays from an M52, S52, or M54.
Each set includes shims in two different thicknesses. By alternating which shims are used you can adjust the lash in .002" increments. Each lifter on average will require 4-5 shims.
Video below shows how to install these. You will set the lash to your specific motor and cams by alternating the number of shims in each lifter.
Video below shows how to install these. You will set the lash to your specific motor and cams by alternating the number of shims in each lifter.
https://www.youtube.com/embed/KtvxWkbvINI?rel=0
Also highly recommended to ease install are these magnetic tools for installing and removing the lifter trays. You can install in an assembled motor in the chassis. If you are working with an engine in the car I recommend plugging the oil drain holes with foam earplugs to make sure the lash cups can’t fall down into the engine. A bit of sticky grease on the lash cups helps to keep them from falling out when installing and removing the lifter trays.
https://www.alien-engineering.com/product-page/bmw-magnetic-lifter-removal-tools