I've got a 99 disco II(104K miles) that i just recently had the top end gaskets replace and the areas all cleaned down, and flushed. I had a really minor tick before all this (i've always assumed the lifters) and should have had the guy replace the tappets and lifters etc when it was open, but I didn't, I was just focused on leaking coolant and a blown head gasket. Since it's been back together, and after a second engine flush, the tapping has gotten louder. When the vehicle is first started, you can hear the ticking (really not too loud) and it follows the rpms. after a couple hour trip, it seems to be louder.....do I need to have the tear the whole thing down again, or is there something I can do to fix it? Performance of the engin is very strong, and responsive...open to any ideas....Thanks!

 

Either a collapsed lifter or Tappet... Or Something my old 1999 Range Rover 4.6 Had was there is a little cup on the rockers that can come off and create a tapping sound.... I know LR fixed this issue, I just dont remember the year, but my 99 definatly Had it...

 

Do you have to tear the whole head off to fix it, or can it be accessed through the valve cover? \\


Also - is this something that needs to be fixed right away, or is it just an anoying sound?

 

no just the valve cover needs to come off... I imagine its not good for your valvetrain, but you can srive on it for a while... i did...