Issue #2 - Clicking Sound

[DigitalBee]

I have posted this problem once before many moons ago. My engine makes this annoying clicking / tapping sound, you can hear it best at idle speed.

I was told this noise is common in a lot of GM 2.8 and 3.1lt engines. He (the mechanic I spoke with) said that the CAM works loose and moves back and forth about a half inch causing it to tap against something. He told me that it was not life threatening to the motor, and their really wasn't anything you could do to stop it other than rebuilding the motor.

Anyone have conflicting ideas or suggestions on how to get rid of this annoying sound?

Thanks,

[3.4 slow to go]

1. IF the cam were moving back & forth 1/2", your block would be a mooring anchor now. The cam wont move that much unless:
..a) The thrust plate in the back was shot or
....b) it is working it's way through the front timing cover.

also

The lifters wouldn't be able to compensate for that much movement in the contact surfaces.


Either the lifters are breaking down {hydraulic lifters can & have failed, are sticking, aka not pumping up, or you suddenly have really loud injectors.

or a combnation of everything. Any loss in power/drivability/gas milage?

[DigitalBee]

No loss in power, it just suddenly began making this noise one day and has progressively gotten louder over time. I've tried every oil and fuel additive known to man and has done nothing, except for one thing:

One time I ran straight "Marvel Mystery Oil" in my engine for 1 hour (to clean it) and the noise was completely gone for that hour. After I drained the mystery oil and filled it back up with regular 10-30, it began making the noise like it had never stoped.

It is very agravating!

[3.4 slow to go]

replace your lifters & pushrods. may as well put on some better rockers while your at it.