Is it normal to hear a slight valve tappet ticking when the engine is cold and has been sitting for a week or so? I have noticed it several times. It stops once the engine warms up. The engine was rebuilt about 3000 miles ago and runs very strong. I don't recall hearing it until recently, but it could be that I just wasn't paying that much attention.

Submitted by pwright1@sc.rr.com on Sun, 08/24/2014 - 15:09

Richard, I appreciate the input. That is exactly my situation. Once the car has been running for a bit and turned off the noise does not return unless the car has been sitting for a number of days. Peter Wright

Submitted by dickathome@cox.net on Sun, 08/24/2014 - 14:39

I personally have a different theory on the noise you are referring to. I think the noise is coming from the lower timing chain. my theory is that since the lower tensioner is hydraulic that operates on engine oil pressure, after sitting a while it takes a few minutes or less for oil pressure to reach the tensioner and apply tightening force to the lower chain. I overhauled my engine 9000 miles ago and it makes the same sounds after sitting. After the initial start up, it goes away regardless of how many times I restart it, even after sitting for several hours. It only does it after sitting for several days.