I've searched the threads tirelessly and couldn't find something on this, so here I am.

I just installed my rebuilt engine.
1992 Z28 TPI
355
Holley Stealth Ram
Twin 58mm TB
Comp Cams 230/236 @ 113
Performax 64cc ported aluminum heads
30# injectors
All new internals (crank, rods, bearings, pistons, etc.)
Basically everything is new except for the block

First startup the engine has this "snapping" noise. Sounds just like someone taking a yardstick and smacking it on a table. It is continuous and rhytmic (meaning it stays constant at the same rate even when the engine warms). It improved somewhat as I dialed the timing down closer to TDC with the timing light, but it's still there. Sort of sounds like a spark plug arcing. I have new MSD wires, MSD rotor, and new plugs. I checked the plug wires and don't see any arcing.

Any help would be appreciated. Thanks.

 

snapping like electricity? or snapping like rocker arms not being adjusted properly? I would start the car at night in a completely dark room and see if you see arcing anywhere, it'll show up as a blue light.