What oil are you using and did you check cam/tappets when you did head gasket?

While you're at HF pick up a mechanics stethoscope if you dont have one. They are like $3 and will help you figure out all the weird noises under your hood.

FWIW I have the HF kit and couldnt get any of the fittings to work... The threads are the isue now the size, so be careful not to strip it if you go that route.

PM PT Schram or do a search to find the right size adapter.

 

Yeah, I cant remember which one it was, but it was a little loose as you screw it in. You can, however, get it tight enough to seal for the couple minutes of testing without wrecking the threads.

 

While I really appreciate the help and suggestions, it would help you to actually read what I have typed in my responses.

 

Adapter is a 1/2 by 20 - can get in blister pack aisle at parts store. The HF will screw into that.

 

Maybe wrap extra layers of teflon tape on the threads to increase diameter.

 

Update. Since it is so easy to pull the valve cover and rocker, I did.
Rocker

Close up of the center of the rocker.

With rocker removed:


Is it just me or are those oil passages by the bolt holes really gunked up?

 

You didnt say anywhere in your posts the condition of cam or tappets? You can do a head gasket job and not check the cam side of the tappets.

I'd like to see some pics of the cam and cam side of all the tappets.

Edit - Everything in those pics is normal


Thanks Sav been meaning to pick one up

 

You asked what oil, I covered that. I did use a stethoscope. I am a tech and have considerable tools. Just not a oil pressure tester.

That being said, tappets looked fine, did not check the cam but if it were worn lobes I would have more than one side making noise. I will not rule out the possibility that one cam lobe is bad, albeit unlikely.

 

Cleaned that all up, checked to see that the tappets are all moving freely. Reassembled and the tick is still there. I am strongly suspecting the tappets are to blame.

 

You need to get rid of that stupid Lucas crap, why would you add that to your oil?
It counter acts the additives in the motor oil.
So change the oil and filter but this time do NOT use the Lucas.

Car maintenance bibles: Oil Additives