Last month I installed a cam and ported heads with all new valvetrain parts, including new Crane lifters.

Now I have a "tink-tink-tink" noise. It only happens right above idle ... 1200-1600 RPMs. I mostly hear it when the engine's not fully heated up. I let a mechanic friend hear it. He says it could be a lifter that's taking too long to get pumped up with oil. I would like to agree with this because I imagine the "tink-tink" noise is a valve closing too hard, due to lifter being too short. I've lashed the rockers 3 times. The confusing thing is that I saw oil coming out of every pushrod, so I still don't know which one could be in trouble.

So if I decide to remove the intake again to look for this problem, how can I tell if a lifter is messed up?

 

If the lifter was too short, it is just not going to open the valve as far. In that case, you would have lots of slack in the preload of that rocker arm. That would make some noise.

 

if it only happens when it's cold try using thinner oil

 

i have the same problem and am using stock lifters. i am quite certain its the lifters since i replaced the springs with comp 987s and got some pro mags with new pushrods.... only thing left are lifters.

 

As Rob mentioned, a valve that's real low on lift is a good sign. You may be able to see it or you could invest in a magnetic base with a dial indicator.... then check to see which ones not up to spec.

-Mindgame

 

OK. Sounds like a good test! I will definately get a dial indicator. Thanks!