Ok, I tried searching the archives but I couldn't find anything. My car makes kind of a knocking or clicking sound when it's at idle. I had a 92 firebird that made a similar sound and I found that it was a small exhaust leak. The car I have now used to leak a little antifreeze but I havn't had to put antifreeze in it for about 3 months, so I think that I fixed the leak when I put in the new thermostat. Anyway, it runs fine but the noise is annoying. I still have the original manifolds on it, but I'm not sure if it's that or a clicking in the engine. Can anyone help?

 

Smnit,

If you have a long-handled screwdriver with a clean handle, you can position the tip on the head or block near where you think the noise is originating. Hold your ear to the handle end (watch out for clothing, long hair, jewelry, etc) and your screwdriver/stethoscope should help you determine if it is a mechanical noise. Of course, if you have a mechanic's stethoscope, that would be even better.

If the noise is not apparent through the screwdriver/scope, try moving it around to different points on the engine. If the noise is completely external, there's a good bet you have an exhaust problem. Don't forget about the 'Y' pipe joints and oxygen sensor as potential leaks, as well as the manifold gaskets. A loose EGR valve can also create the same noise.

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Later,
Vader
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It could be an exhaust leak, if it seems to be coming from down behind the engine. If it's near the valve covers, you might have a collapsed lifter. Usually you can tell, because the ticking will get faster as your rpms raise, but both of these problems will cause that.

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Thanx for the help, I'm gonna check the manifolds and Y pipe tomorrow and check for exhaust leaks, if it is a collapsed lifter how hard is that to fix? I'll update tomorrow when I check it out for sure. Thanx again.

 

HOw about a kind of muted rattleing noise from rhe rear bottom of the motor. Faster or slower in conjunction with idle speed. Started up about 2 weeks ago for me.

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I would check for any loose clamps near the y-pipe area.

 

Well, it sounds like the noise is coming from the valve covers. I think it might be a collapsed lifter. What is the easiest way to fix this? Will it cause serious problems if it's run like this for a coupla weeks? Thanx 4 ur help.