A valve deactivator assembly according to aspects of the present invention includes
an inner body member that is slidably disposed in a longitudinal bore defined by
an outer body member. Two diametrically opposed pistons are positioned in a transverse
bore also defined by the outer body member. A pair of substantially identical latch
members are outwardly biased against an inner end of the pistons by a compressed
spring. The latch members are generally semi-cylindrical in shape and include flat
truncated semi-circular upper and lower surfaces. The pistons apply radially inward
force in response to engine oil pressure to adjacent latch member to move the latch
member against the bias of the compressed spring to an unlatched position. The
periphery of each latch member lower surface provides arcuate shoulder portions
that engage angularly separated portions of a latching surface inside the outer
body member.
