White flag. (...was "Engine ticking")

[Jeff Farrar]

Ok. White flag. I give up. I spent about 12 hours this week replacing the all the lifters. The old ones didn't look that bad either. I took my time and made sure everything was real clean including brush blasting the intake. After starting it up, I let it idle at 2000rpms for about 15 minutes with it ticking or rapping away the whole time. BTW: BB's heat up running a 2000 for 15 minutes at idle. After I let it cool down for about an hour, I took off the valve covers again and watched the springs with the engine running at idle. The travel of all the valves looked the same. I really don't think it’s a issue with the springs or lifters at this point. Then again, I am no closer to finding out what it is either.

Here is what I found with a compression check #1-250, #2-225, #3-210, #4-225, #5-210, #6-170 (I know there it a ring issue with this one anyway), #7-225, #8-225. The engine is a "Hi Perf" stamped 4-bolt 454 with 13:1 compression and was really built racing and not really the street (which is how I want to drive it).

Assuming it is something in the bottom end, I guess I am looking at a rebuild which would run about 3-4k depending on what would needed to be done. At that cost, and since its not the original motor anyway, I'm thinking of selling it and buying a create motor.

Am I on the right path???

Old thread:

http://www.corvetteactioncenter.com/forums/showthread.php?t=69711

 

[RodsnRides]

Perhaps. One little gremlin that has eluded me is an exhaust leak. Sometimes, believe it or not, an exhaust leak can sound like a ticking lifter or rocker. Really.

I don't have one of those little "smoke generator" tools like they use to find wind noise and water leaks, but when you first start up a cold engine, you can put your hands around all the port areas and feel for the leak. This isn't the best rocket science, since the parts are not truly heated and expanded, but it helps.

My recommendation is to check all of your exhaust bolts (I double nut the flanges). At least try it before you pull it...

Rick

 

[RodsnRides]

Just read your other thread-I guess exhaust can be ruled out now. Sorry to see you may be in my position-time for a change. Crate engines offer a warranty, etc., and you can get pretty complete, robust package that is matched (cam/intake/heads/etc.) these days. GMPP, Edelbrock, Summit, etc.

If you got the dough-go for it. I can't, thus my weekend will be filled with engine changes...sigh. 383 out of the wagon and into the 'Vette. Looking forward to turning the key, though.

Rick

 

[vette-dude]

Sounds like you may have a broken ring or cracked piston. Just a guess.

Randy

 

[magoo]

I wasn't following the other threads on this problem but the video I found sure sounds like a valve tap. I'm sure you know there are ways to remove the valve springs for checking without pulling the heads. One other thing I've heard before is the fuel pump tapping like this if the return spring in it broke. Should be easy to check with your stethoscope on the fuel pump. I know it seems like the left side and all but just my $.02. Sorry if this was suggested before, I haven't read all replys. Good luck.

Mike