ok about two days ago i noticed a loud knock coming from the driver side, valvecover/block side. I thought that since i hadnt changed my oil in a bit (i know, i know.....but this things happen to all of us...) it was a rocker or something with no lube....

I finally checked my oil and i was almost bone dry!!! i put about 3 1/2 qrts and i still have that noise....

I took it done to my mechanic and he explained that i could be a connecting rod.....probably knocking due to the lack of lube.....

any comments or experiences with this simular problem....

 

Does your car not have a low oil light??? I don't know if anyone can help you if you can't check your own oil. hehe j/k

 

no, i dont have a low oil light....

 

Well, the fact that you were 3 1/2 qts low tells me your motor was already shot and due for a rebuild. Yeah I'd say if you are running it around 4 qts low a rod bearing or wrist pin would be a good guess. However you could be lucky and it is only a lifter knock. That can sound like a hammer and coming from right under the rocker cover. Either way good luck. Keeping the oil full and clean will make the motor last for many years.

 

thanks, i just went and listened and i noticed that it knock only on deceleration or a stable rpm above 2000.....if that helps....thanks

 

.....I'de put my money on spun rod bearing(s) (probably more than one).

Be careful, as it sounds like you're still starting it and running it around. If it's rod bearing you're playing with a time bomb. What could be minor damage right now could lead into a quite costly rebuild very quickly.

Remeber, LS1's burn oil. Make certain to check it at least every 2000 miles....that in itself could save you a few grand down the road.

Good luck ! !

 

thanks......i've been considering a rebuild so i guess i should take this opportunity nd tear it all out and see wat else is shot.....the only thing is that i hope it will stay together until such time....unfortunately it is my daily drivr nd i need to drive it....

thanks for the help though.....even though i wish my assumption was proven wrong and it was only lifter or something....

 

Dude...
You should check your oil level atleast 3 times a week.. Are you gonna pay someone to do your rebuild?

 

yes, i dont have the place or tools to build my Z.............i've been looking around and i havent found any decent shops that have any experience wth ls1'z....however, my mechanic, ex-chevy motor and suspension tech, said that he can install a short block for 1800.....i just need to get the original out, prept' and installd.....

 

Yeah that sux but sounds like a rod bearing to me.

 

Be careful of who you choose to do your rebuild ! !
The rods on an LS1 are not designed to take high heat, due to the way they are manufactured. If when pulling the engine apart and ANY look black - replace them....REPLACE THEM ALL ! !
The black means that they have been exposed to extreme heat and they're now junk. Along that same line, I would look at a new or refinished crank. If you've spun a bearing (or two) you'll need one.