I started getting a ticking noise on the drivers side. It is a valvetrain noise.

It started after I hit it with a 75 wet shot a couple of times for just a few short seconds. I did not rev above 5600 rpm. It does not sound as though anything is broken. It has been getting louder over the last few days. It is actually louder when I return from a drive then when I leave.

It is really cold now (teens at night - low 30's daytime) and I am running 10w30. The car never leaves the driveway until it is up to temperature (170) and then babied for the 3 mile drive out of the neighborhood (I'm a nice guy - lol)

I have an LT4 topend with GM hot cam. I'm used to adjusting valves on a big block Olds with hydraulic lifters and adjustable roller rockers.

I have not opened it up yet. Does this system use adjustable rocker arms? It looks like it does from a picture I have from a catalog.

Has anyone had drivetrain noise before? Can I adjust this, or did I hurt the motor?

What should I do first?

Thanks!

 

Probably not a bad idea to take the valve cover off and check things out.

 

Yeah, definitly take off a valve cover and check things out. Sounds to me like a lifter going south...

 

Thanks guys.

I took the valve cover off and found nothing wrong. Adjusted the rockers and the sound went away.

The previous owner said he left them "a little loose" so it would rev better.

Sounds dangerous to me.

 

Going loose on the lash is an old trick to get a few more RPM out of the motor. But not loose to the point of clicking. Depending on the type of lifters you are running, just follow manufacturers recommendation or do some research on this board for the proper pre-load.