97 Cavalier z24 engine knoise

CHRISR25

MEMBER
1997 CHEVROLET CAVALIER
4 CYL
FWD
MANUAL
150,000 MILES

I have a 97 cavalier z24. The problem I am having is when I crank it I am getting like a tapping sound from the top of the motor. It does not effect the performance of the car. I put some oil treatment in it and now the noise die down but comes back while running. Engine still runs quite except for the noise. I really like the car and hope it is nothing major. Please help

Wednesday, April 13th, 2011 AT 4:18 AM

3 Replies

DWB812

MECHANIC
108 POSTS

It sounds like you have a lifter or valve adjustment problem. Are you sure it's from the top of the motor. How did you isolate the noise? Make sure it's not a high voltage electrical arch from a coil by opening the hood with the engine running in a dark garage or at night with no light sources nearby. If you have an electrical arch it will be obvious.

I would also use a mechanic's stethescope to be sure where the noise is coming from. They are inexpensive and available anywhere parts are sold. It will help you determine if the noise is from the valve cover, the head, or the block/cylinders.

Good luck, and if you can isolate the noise a little better let me know.

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Thursday, April 14th, 2011 AT 2:20 AM

CHRISR25

MEMBER
4 POSTS

I had a friend to put a crowbar up 2 the side of the engine were the timing chain is and it sounded like there were something in there loose spinning. Is there any way 2 check the timing chain and see if thats what it is with pulling the motor.

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Wednesday, August 17th, 2011 AT 4:28 AM

FIXITMR