Top end ticking sound from engine

LOUWELDS

MEMBER
1994 CADILLAC ELDORADO
4.6L
V8
FWD
AUTOMATIC
50,000 MILES

This is for Ken. Louwelds again. Hey I missed the boat on this car when I bought it. Engine makes ticking sound @ running rpm. Doesn't make sound when ilding, gets louder when revving up and revving down. Fairly loud and constant @ running speed.I can't and won't sell the car in this condition. The question;What do you think?Maybe just a dirty lifter/follower, camlobe going flat, timing chain, ect, ect. If I have to pull engine, I'm not doing it.I heard (carrols custom cadillic?) That MAYBE exhaust cams don't get enought oil splashed on them if car is mostly driven in town? (?) Causing them to wear excessively?

No you can't hear the noise when driving the car. Good job insulating engine compartment!Thank you GM. Thats how I missed it. Being old and half deaf doesn't help either.I dumped about 2k$dollars into car before someone said "Hey, Lou whats that noise all about" Ken, I'm a fair mechanic with lots of tools, a car lift, and an OK shop. However I know zip about Northstar motors like:Which end has the timing chains. Can I remove the camshaft(s)by just loosening the chain tensioners. Are there some specialized pullers, tools I have to use.I'm OK with taking the car to a shop if I have to but its all about the $$$.

Parts seem reasonable on Ebay.I think I know when I'm in over my head. And while I'm here, You ever hear about someone sticking it a Chevy LS motor in one of these things? As in where would the starter go? Water pumps can be dealt with.I understand some LS motors went it FWD GM cars.I'm not going to do it, just thinking.I did get the tranny shifting problem solved.$13 part on Ebay. Ya I know all this is more than a question, I'm just looking for a little guidance. Either way Thanks Lou

3 Replies

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
42,973 POSTS

Hi,

Thank you for asking for me :-) with only 50 k I would have to say it would be remote to have a worn lifter or camshaft issues which would cause this problem, It sounds like the problem could be carbon on top of the piston causing the aforementioned clicked/knocking noise, which would warrant a de-carboning treatment or dis-assembly. But, just to be safe, I would remove the valve covers and inspect the valve train ei. Valve springs, (one could be broken) or other broken valve train components. Inspect the cam lobes to ensure their condition. Please let me know what you find.

Best, Ken

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Thursday, December 4th, 2014 AT 9:41 PM

LOUWELDS

MEMBER
8 POSTS

Thanks for reply Ken.I don't think its carbon build-up on piston(s) Its a very metallic sound.I know what some springs sound like when they are broken, they have a clicking sound (BB Chevy). Also some engines will miss fire @ higher rpm if spring/pushrod(s) or rockers are screwed up.I did own a 1994 ford ranger w/ major carbon build- up. It didn't sound like this Northstar motor. Anyway, I'll let you know what I find if and when I resolve this little hiccup. Your the expert on Caddi's (NOT ME thats for sure!) And I appreciate your advice. Hope you have a good christmas and a good 2015. Louwelds.

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Monday, December 8th, 2014 AT 1:49 PM

KEN L