Hello everyone, I'm new to the site and a new 3rd gen trans am owner. I actually picked up the car for free.
Well so far I haven't been able to drive to thanks to a knock or something. I have some guys telling me thats its sounding like a lifter knock, is there any other way of checking them other then the screwdriver/hose to the engine and block? I'm hopeing to get busy on it this afternoon. If the northwest weather holes out.

 

Welcome to TGO!

Is this sounds more of a tapping noise? Or is more of a dull thud? A valve train issue would sound more like a higher pitched tapping sound whereas a rod knock (spun rod bearing) would be more of a resounding thud. What does the oil PSI gauge read?

A screwdriver can be used, however, i prefer about a 2' piece of 5/8" heater hose. I place 1 end in my right ear and the other goes probing around.

You could also try a search, there are many other threads dealing with both rod knock and valve train issues.

 

It kinda sounds like metal to metal to me, but I don't know. I have done lots of stuff to the outside of the engine but never inside so I'm pretty lost. I think I will try the hose and look for the sound that way.
Also IF it matters, when I give the car gas it seems to want to die.