1985 Other Buick Models Tappet valves

Hi DF Morris. Welcome to the forum. There are a lot of other things that can sound like noisy lifters. Loose timing belts and chains can rattle against shields and guides for example. If all of the lifters are noisy, it suggests a low oil pressure problem. That could be serious when it leads to other internal damage, particularly of the crankshaft and connecting rod bearings.

Don't overlook the simple stuff. If the oil level is low, you will hear the lifters. The same thing can happen if the oil is over-filled. Rotating parts will whip up air into the oil which will compress inside the lifters preventing them from doing their job.

Caradiodoc

When was his last oil change? Lifters(tappets) get loud if they are not properly lubricated. Oil pressure low, or oil level low.
Worn out(high mileage).