I have noticed lately that when I push on the gas moderately, mainly from a complete stop, a tapping sound comes from the engine. I am having a feeling it is the lifters or something to do with the valves. It is not the lack of oil which causes it, like when the engine hasn't been ran in a few days, but it does it all the time, even when completely warmed. Does anyone have any ideas about this, or any way to fix this thing. I don't know if it is important or not, but I will also mention that I have a 1988 Pontiac Firebird with almost 137,000 miles and has not had any engine rebuilds of any sort that I know of. At least nothing with the cylinders or valves. Thanks for the info.

Tyler

 

TZF,

Check closely for an exhaust gasket leak. These can sound like a mechanical "tapping' since the exhuast gas explodes into the manifolds and the pressure wave is very severe. A slight leak may be almost undetectable at idle but will increase in volume with accelleration. It will be synchronous with engine speed, not road speed. Start the engine with the hood open, and listen around both sides and at the rear of the engine while "blipping" the throttle open by hand. Larger leaks should be vary apparent, while smaller ones can be really hard to find. If you think you've found a leak, let the engine cool and mold some modelling clay into the area of the leak and try it again. If the noise is gone, you'll need to repair the offending component(s). The clay will not cause damage, but won't stay stuck for long, either.

Don't forget to inspect the exhaust crossover and pipe to the catalytic converter, the EGR valve, the exhaust passages at the intake manifold, and the converter itself.

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Later,
Vader
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[This message has been edited by Vader (edited February 08, 2001).]