I drove around for a while today with what sounded like a minor exhaust leak. After going into semi-high rps, what I thought was an exhaust leak turned into a series of fairly loud but random ticks. By the time I got off the freeway and parked it was pretty damn loud. Now, it knocks rhythmically with the rpms. At first I thought it could be a bent pushrod, but now I'm not sure. I went back the next day, made sure it had oil, and recorded the sound. Can someone tell me what this might be?

 

Anyone have a quick answer? I need to figure out whether to tow it home or to a shop .

 

That sounds like a rod knock to me. Is the oil pressure lower than normal and/or fluctuating at idle?

 

+1, on the knock, not a tick. Definately needs to be looked into (possible spun bearing).

 

Sounds like a spun rod bearing to me.

Its time for a tow for sure, do not drive it if at all possible.