Engine noise-ticking

[Bob H.]

I have a problem with my new acquisition, an original 72 350/200 with 80k.

At idle there is absolutely no noise but when driving I could hear a ticking that sounded somewhere between a lifter and an exhaust leak.
Started it awhile ago and as usual it was quiet even when reving up at holding at steady speed. However, after I ran it for awhile, I started to hear it but it is coming from the front of the engine. It has an original fan clutch which is tight and the water pump is tight as well. Then I got to thinking, could it be the timing chain. When reving, a couple of taps seemed louder then the regular ticking and it only occurs when you get up to say 2000 rpms.

Could it be slop in the chain when hot causing it to hit the cover? I couldn't get on the cover with my stethoscope

[Bob H.]

Re: Engine noise-ticking

any ideas?

[Frank D.]

Re: Engine noise-ticking

I'll loosen/remove fan belts and VERY BRIEFLY run an engine to try to diagnose a sound...a mechanic's stethoscope sometimes help or a short piece of rubber hose held to the ear...

[Carl N.]

Re: Engine noise-ticking

I would pull fan belt, p/s belt, compressor belt and see if noise goes away. Check torque on all exhaust manifold bolts, check exhaust manifold to pipe flange bolts/leaks. Check operation of heat riser valve on passenger exhaust manifold. How many miles on motor, if over 100k then it may be done. These can be hard to find as the noise will travel. Good luck.

[Harry S.]

Re: Engine noise-ticking

Bob, I had a similar problem on a 63 but I had it at idle as well. It took me about 3 weeks to find the problem. I swore it was a lifter on number 1 cylinder. It turned out to be the bearing in the P/S pump.

As a test, remove the P/S belt and see if the pulley wobbles. Take it for a test drive with no belt.

[Carl N.]

Re: Engine noise-ticking

Sorry you stated 80k, but that is close.

[Bob H.]

Re: Engine noise-ticking

That's exactly what I thought, a number 1 lifter. I did not eliminate the p/s pump but will try it. it sat 13 years

[Duke W.]

Re: Engine noise-ticking

I believe a '72 would have the nylon tooth cam sprocket, but with only 80K miles it's probably never been changed, but could be loosing teeth. It may not be the problem, but you should put it on your "to do" list. Replace it with the NAPA OE replacement truck chain (made by Cloyes) or equivalent... costs about 25 bucks for the set and should last longer than most of us.

BTW, nice find!

Duke

[Bob H.]

Re: Engine noise-ticking

Will do that change out as well. thanks

[Mark E.]

Re: Engine noise-ticking

Great suggestions.

I've heard exhaust leaks which closely mimic the sound of a noisy valve.

Pre-ignition can also sound like valve train noise. Just temporarily retard the ignition and see if that makes a difference.

[Mark L.]

Re: Engine noise-ticking

Bob,
The fuel pump can create this sound. Good luck and let us know what you find.

[Anthony P.]

Re: Engine noise-ticking

Bob,
The fuel pump can create this sound. Good luck and let us know what you find.

Check the fuel pump, I have had many make this noise when I was wrenching (way back) the spring on the top of the pump can break and cause this.

Yes please let us know

[Patrick H.]

Re: Engine noise-ticking

I've seen a "ticking" noise from a water pump bearing, as well as from the front timing chain before it really went.

Is this a car you're going to Bowtie, or drive or what are the plans?
Just thinking that you may want to be careful about what you disturb or repair depending on plans.

And if you have photos, please share.

[Bob H.]

Re: Engine noise-ticking


Thanks. When I get back home I will eliminate the power steering pump and water pump and go from there. I did just put a new fuel pump on the car and did not change the rod. I will report what I find.
Patrick, I will have to check with someone to see if it would qualify for bowtie. The paint is original, the seat covers have been change but reast is original. The drive train is all original. The smog was removed, valve covers upgraded and radio upgraded but I have ALL the original parts! Missing origianl carb and starter. Ca car no rust at all and have origianl spare that has never been used

[Patrick H.]

Re: Engine noise-ticking

Original California car? If so, that's likely the only way it would have an AIR system.