I have a ticking noise that seems to be more noticeable on the passenger side of my car. It is a pretty noticeable tick so I'm not sure where it would rank between a tick and click? But anyways, I've tried the trans. fluid trick, checked all the rockers, and ran the screw driver all over to try to hunt down the noise. The oil does need to be changed but the only thing that I can come up with so far is when I'm under the car I can't feel the stud come through all the way on the passenger side manifold where it meets the pipe (the side closer to the motor so I can't actually see it). This is why i think it's an exhaust leak but it just seems too loud? I put a muffler on the car last night and now the tick is louder than the exhaust itself. It's been doing this since about the beginning of January and only does it once the car reaches operating temp., but if it was an exhaust leak wouldn't it do it all the time? Anyone have any suggestions?? (I haven't ruled out it being a lifter yet, but want to know what I can try before I get into that)

84 Z28, 5.0 HO

Thanks, Rob

 

Are you running a solid lifter? it could be a little valve tap or you sucked a valve into the head but that is pretty loud. Or a sticky valve. I would first check your valve lash.

 

I'm not for sure, but i do know i have the 327-350hp cam from GM and am pretty sure this one only comes in hydraulic?

Also, would I notice a performance issue if it was valve related? Because the car seems to run just fine so far. Like I said it started in the winter and I did put this car through a whole WI winter if that helps at all?

 

When i ran the screwdriver over over the valve covers and oil pan there wasn't any noises, but when i put it to the exhaust it seems like that's where it is coming from but you know it's hard to tell when the cars running anyways with the exhaust to know for sure :/

I'd like to think maybe something with the cold affected the stud on the manifold on my passenger side? The car did sit for 5 years until I bought it this last summer and have drove it everyday since.

 

if you have an inspection mirror check for carbon tracks on the heads at the suspected area

 

Try using a long screwdriver on each cylinder tube on the header. This will pin point which cylinder its coming from.

It could be a bit of spark knock or pinging caused by carbon buildup. maybe try running some seafoam through it.