2001 Pontiac Trans Am Valvetrain noise-ticking

SPORTTSTER

MEMBER
2001 PONTIAC TRANS AM
V8
2WD
MANUAL
15,000 MILES

Hi. New here. Got a 01' T/A Firehawk, low miles LS1 15k. Just bought it two months ago. It has a ticking and is currently in the shop. They removed the passenger side valve cover and said the valves were all down which is a indication it's insufficient oil. They turned the car over quite a few times and little oil was getting to the valvetrain. The oil pump is 40psi which they indicated was normal. The car makes rythmic ticking. I told them about a TSB that says the oil pump may have a tear in the screen which may allow air into the oil. I'm wondering if that could hurt oil transfer to the valve area? They said the valves were at zero lash. It's going to cost $600 to get to the oil pump from what I've been told so they can check the screen. The wife is beside herself. I'm not thrilled either. Does any of this sound right as far as diagnosis? Thanks!

1 Reply

RASMATAZ

MECHANIC
75,992 POSTS

Hi sporttster, Welcome to 2carpros and TY for the donation

Oil Pressure specs

With engine at normal operating temperature, oil pressure should be at least 6 psi (0.4 kg/cm2 ) at 1000 RPM, 18 psi (1.3 kg/cm2 ) at 2000 RPM and 24 psi (1.7 kg/cm2 ) at 4000 RPM.

TSB Reference Number(s): 02-06-01-038, Date of Issue: December 2, 2002

CONDITION
Some customers may comment on an engine tick noise. The distinguishing characteristic of this condition is that it likely will have been present since new, and is typically noticed within the first 161-322 km (100-200 mi). The noise may often be diagnosed as a collapsed lifter. Additionally, the noise may be present at cold start and appear to diminish and then return as the engine warms to operating temperature. This noise is different from other noises that may begin to occur at 3219-4828 km (2000-3000 mi).

CAUSE
The O-ring seal between the oil pump screen and the oil pump may be cut, causing aeration of the oil.

CORRECTION
Inspect the O-ring seal and replace as necessary. Use the applicable part number listed below. Refer to the Engine Mechanical sub-section of the appropriate Service Manual.
PARTS INFORMATION
PARTS INFORMATION
Part NumberDescriptionQty
12557752Seal-O/Pmp (O-ring) (F & Y Cars)1
12563963Seal-O/Pmp (O-ring) (C/K Trucks)1

Parts are currently available from GMSPO.
WARRANTY INFORMATION
For vehicles repaired under warranty, use:

WARRANTY INFORMATION
Labor OperationDescriptionUsageLabor Time
J1060Pickup Tube and Screen - ReplaceF Car3.7 hrs
""Y Car4.3 hrs
""C Truck1.3 hrs
""K Truck2.1 hrs