As for mine i have been driving on it for over a year and a half now. It is not there when I start the engine cold and then it will come later on. It sounds like there is no oil getting up there. I have thought about replacing the lifters too since they are fairly cheap. I am going to try the seafoam in the engine and see what it does.

 

Rob-what weight of motor oil are you using?

 

I have been using 10W40 full synthetic. I tried running 20W50 but it seemed to make the tapping far worse. I have also used Lucas Oil additive which seems to do some good but not really. Needless to say the previous owner never took very good care of the truck, I personally feel I have some oil valleys or tracks somewhere that are clogged in the heads.

 

Have you tried a engine flush?

 

Yeah I have done the ATF flush twice. I had posted a pic of what the valve train looked liked after too and it was bad, I cannot find the pic right noe but believe me it would make you cringe.Thatis why I was just thinking of getting the heads rebuilt. I have spent more money on flushes and oil than it would have for the heads almost.

 

I am with you, I would just wait until my head gaskets went and then new lifters and rockers at the same time.