Patent attributes
A hydraulic lash adjuster includes a cylindrical body having a central cylindrical bore. A hollow plunger is reciprocable in the bore and includes a reservoir chamber therein. The plunger has a close clearance with the bore. A high pressure chamber is defined by the plunger and a closed end of the bore. An orificed wall of the plunger separates the reservoir chamber from the high pressure chamber. A check valve is disposed in the orifice for allowing one-way flow of oil from the reservoir chamber to the high pressure chamber. A plunger spring disposed in the high pressure chamber urges the plunger away from the closed end of the bore. A seat is disposed at an end of the plunger distal from the high pressure chamber. The plunger includes a circumferential groove proximate the seat for holding oil to maintain an oil seal in the clearance to limit leakage of air through the clearance.