I have a late 1980's 350 SBC with a roller cam, in my car, when the engine is cold there is a 'ticking' noise coming from the engine, once the engine is warm it goes away. I think it way be a lifter making this noise, what do you guys think ? if it is, will it get worse and cause some serious damage ? and is it easier to replace than repair ? appreciate any input.

whats the mileage? and what oil weight are you using?
how clean is the inside of the engine?

I was told that the engine had low milage on it when installed, and the guy I purchased the car from was pretty honest, so I will take his word on the engines condition, I am using 10w-30 Mobil 1 oil, same as the previous owner.

When using 5W-30 Mobil 1, I noticed the same on my engine (very faint tick with engine cold). It will not hurt the engine, provided you don't do any high rpm revs with engine cold, to be on the safe side.

It doesn't bother me and it's so faint most people wouldn't notice it, again it goes completely away once engine is warmed up. You can use an additive in the Mobile 1 for lifter noise (I'd only use 1/2 can), or use 3 quarts of 0 or 5W-30 Mobile 1 and 2 quarts of 15W-50 as a possible solution. Again, it's really a matter of just how much noise your's is making.

Just a note: The Corvette Z06 guys even complain about lifter noise on cold start with Mobil 1, 5 or 10W-30, if that make you fell any better!

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0 to 75 Audio http://www.cartsys.com/fiero/cal-engine.wav

[This message has been edited by California Kid (edited 06-21-2004).]

quote Originally posted by California Kid:Just a note: The Corvette Z06 guys even complain about lifter noise on cold start with Mobil 1, 5 or 10W-30, if that make you fell any better!

Same goes for us Silverado guys.

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1986 SE 350 V8

Thanks guys, that could be the problem it runs quiet when warm and is real smooth, great for burbling around town now the good weather has come.