mdrobnak said:
Hey all,
I noticed tonight that the drivers side head had a ticking sound coming from it. I also noticed that it's a bit low on oil (slightly above the min point - yikes)...I put 2 qts in, it's full now. The sound comes and goes now...most audible at low RPMs, but I think it's there throughout the rev range, just not as audible...
Any ideas?
-Matt
Matt,
There is some information on alldatapro.com that deals with engine noises. I tried to post the link, however, you have to have a password to access it. If you want to email me, I will try to email you back the page. If that fails......describe the sound a little bit better and I will see if I can guide you in the right direction. The way that you describe it now is that you have a ticking sound coming from the engine.......the sound comes and goes.......and during acceleration the ticking is present. For a ticking noise the possible problem areas are fuel injector, fuel line, oil pump, valve lifter, belt tensioner, water pump, or an obstruction of the cooling fan.
Step 1: To test for the ticking at the fuel rail, disconnect the first fuel line clip......if yes then repair......if no move to next step.
Step 2: Use an engine ear (screwdriver held to ear) to test each fuel injector. To isolate the faulty injector, disconnect electrical connector and listen for noise. If noise is present, install new fuel injector. If no, move to step 3.
Step 3: Inspect the accessory drive belt tensioner. If tensioner is source of noise, install a new belt tensioner. If no, move to step 4.
Step 4: Check the water pump for ticking noise using an engine ear (screwdriver) If noise is from this location, replace water pump. If no, go to step 5.
Step 5: Inspect the cooling fan and shroud for wear and damage. If damage is present, repair or replace assemblies. If no, go to step 6.
Step 6: Check the oil pump using engine ear (screwdriver) and probe at oil filter adapter to verify the pump as the source. If oil pump is source of the noise, replace oil pump. If no, go to step 7.
Step 7: Check valve lifter/lash adjuster for correct operation using an engine ear. If operating correctly, conduct another series of tests for alternative noises such as knocking/pinging. If noise is located here, replace valve lifter/lash adjustments.
I know this seems like a lot, but it is the only way to figure out exactly what your problem is in your car. If these steps are all done and noise still presists, let me know and I'll give you some more information. Im hoping this is something you can do, however, im sure if you find a mechanic friend, he or she would be more than willing to help.
