To Quickshift C5 : Have you checked to see if all the spark plugs are tight ? This will make the sounds you are describing , ask me how I know . If they are tight, I would agree to replace the header gaskets . They don't cost too much and would either fix the problem or rule them out as the problem.

 

When changing my plugs I found #8 was not tight and could have been removed without a wrench. It was blackened from escaping combustion and had been loose for years. The engine had a ticking on the passenger side when cold that sounded mechanical - like a lifter or tappet.

 

I have had 2 99 trans ams and both have done it. The first one I had I bought brand new in 99 and it did it from day one. They will do it as soon as you start it until it slightly warms up. Both of mine do it for about the first 2-3 minutes.

 

I used to be a Mustang guy [ I got smart and left that camp ] and even I knew about this. Mine also goes away after 2-3 minutes as well

 

Can someone please tell me if a lifter tick goes faster with the engine RPM, or if it stays at a steady frequency?

As someone else described, the sound of a baseball card held against the spokes of a bicycle wheel--is that piston slap?

Also, since a piston slap is due to large clearance between the piston and wall, does that mean that the piston ring also won't function as well as the others?

 

Like you called them what? ......lol jk

 

my ws6 does it a little too...i was worried bout it too...but i keep reading everywhere that it is normal with the ls1....mine is hardly noticeable