The hydraulic lifters need to 'settle' after being replaced, meaning that the balancing element (similar to a ball shape) inside the lifters should settle/seat in the lower position. This allows the lifter to properly fill with oil during startup. The waiting time is typically 30 minutes. Do not start the engine during this time.
Okay, I've now mostly completed the cylinder head assembly for the Golf 2 D, and I've removed the hydraulic lifters.
(Reversed orientation) reinstalled and tested. One with excessive play, approximately 0.9mm.
"and one with approximately 0.2mm, the others are okay. Question: should I replace them all, or just the worn ones? Where is the wear limit?"