Whats tappet when speaking in the engine terms?

[Nightcat]

Hi Guys

After crashing my Celica I'm in need of a new car.

I am interested in this BMW , but in description it is said:

"THE ENGINE HAS A TAPPING NOISE BUT I AM TOLD THIS IS JUST A TAPPET"

Just wanted to know what might it entitle as I don't want to spend money on the car that might stop in the middle of the road.

Thanks for any info.
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&item=330279100272

 

[AutoCustomEng]

HI Night Cat, It is common for these cars for the tappets to pack up as they are hydraulic, If the tappet has failed the other wont be to far behind so you might want to look at replacing them, It is not to costly about the same as a head gasket in labour i normally quote around the £300 mark exc parts,

If it is not that then you are looking at timing chain slapping, but doubt it

 

[Nightcat]

Thanks alot for the reply

I'm definately not buying this car then

 

[lutonmatt]

iwld stay away

ends up on the bmws to be the cam shaft and the hyd lifters
dont have tappets

 

[AutoCustomEng]

Lutonmatt tappets and hyd lifters are the same thing!!! They do the same job but in a different manner and adjustment