3.8 ticking on idle
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Joined: Mar 2014
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From: Indiana
3.8 ticking on idle I have a 3.8 v-6 in a 99 firebird and when i start it on a cold start it has a ticking that sounds like a lifter, however when i rev it up any at all even just 100 rpm the sound goes away. Any ideas on what this might be? Could it still be a lifter even though the noise goes out?? It doesnt do it if i start the car after its warmed up either.
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Thread Starter
Registered User
Joined: Mar 2014
Posts: 45
Likes: 0
From: Indiana
Okay, well just a little bit more info. If you stand in front of the car the noise sounds like it is coming from the rear passenger side Valve cover. but like i said give it gas and it goes away. Let it warm up it goes away, but if ignorable then awesome thanks.
GM Service Manual Info-
Engine Noise on Startup, but last only few seconds:
A cold piston knock which disappears in 1.5 minutes should be considered acceptable. A cold engine knock usually disappears when the specific cylinder’s secondary ignition circuit is grounded out during diagnosis.
A light rattle/tapping noise may indicate a valve train, upper engine concern, or a low rumble/knocking may indicate a crankshaft or piston, lower engine concern.
Incorrect oil filter without anti-drain back feature – Install correct oil filter.
Incorrect oil viscosity – drain the oil and replace with correct viscosity oil.
High lifter leak down rate – replace the lifters as required.
Worn crankshaft thrust bearing – Check the crankshaft end play, inspect thrust bearing and crankshaft, repair or replace as required.
Damaged or faulty oil filter by-pass valve – Inspect the oil filter by-pass valve for proper operation, repair or replace as required.
Engine Noise on Startup, but last only few seconds:
A cold piston knock which disappears in 1.5 minutes should be considered acceptable. A cold engine knock usually disappears when the specific cylinder’s secondary ignition circuit is grounded out during diagnosis.
A light rattle/tapping noise may indicate a valve train, upper engine concern, or a low rumble/knocking may indicate a crankshaft or piston, lower engine concern.
Incorrect oil filter without anti-drain back feature – Install correct oil filter.
Incorrect oil viscosity – drain the oil and replace with correct viscosity oil.
High lifter leak down rate – replace the lifters as required.
Worn crankshaft thrust bearing – Check the crankshaft end play, inspect thrust bearing and crankshaft, repair or replace as required.
Damaged or faulty oil filter by-pass valve – Inspect the oil filter by-pass valve for proper operation, repair or replace as required.
