2k2 Z

I know this has been covered many times on here but I am new to the ls1 world so I want some more opinions and im getting that ticking sound from idle until just under 2.5k then i cant hear it past that, iv read about the piston slap but it still makes the noise even when the car is warm and seems to be stronger drivers side. Im worried about it being a push rod or something internally that could do long term damage. I also recently did an oil change with royal purple 5w30 and looked at the drain plug closely for shavings and found none. any ideas or comments would be great help! Oh and its on 02 z28 m6 with 99k completely stock
Thanks!

shorty(98TA)

Ticking is most likely from the valve train. Piston slap when it happens sounds more compairable to like a rod knock. But its hard to say over the internet even if you posted a vid of it no one is going to be able to tell you for sure

99fbodyTA

like the guy above me said...no one on here will tell you for sure. have a pro look at it if you arent sure