71 340 'Cuda ticking noise after starting

[aduc1791]

My 71 'Cuda 340 was in storage for years. I have since changed all fluids. The problem is when I start it up I am getting a loud ticking noise that sounds like a stuck/collapsed lifter. I am unable to get it to stop and am afraid to drive the car until I get this corrected. Oil presure appears normal and power is not impacted.

Has anyone seen this before and if so what trick can you share.

Thanks much!

[Oldschool]

I would still be inclined to suspect a collapsed lifter or a lifter that isn't pumping all the way up.  I think I would try an engine oil flush with diesel or trans fluid first.  That is cheap and not labor intensive.  See if that doesn't free up the lifter.  If not, it might be time for a set of lifters. It could be something else, but I would start with lifters and go from there. Good luck and keep us informed.

BTW -- welcome to the site.....       

[dodge freak 2]

Why not pull the valve cover / covers and check if any rockers have play between the pushrods...best to start it and then pull each cover..if your lucky you might be able to guess which side..

Then just replace that lifter..it can be done without pulling the intake..but the rocker shaft needs to be pulled.

Sure its not an exhaust leak?

[Chryco Psycho]

exactly ... do yo9u have gaskets between the manifolds & heads , or a failed gasket betwen the headers & heads
 do not use a gasket between stock manifiolds & the heads they always fail , I just use a thin coat of ultra Copper RTV

[ladman]

I've had the ticking noise myself twice and it was simply a faulty gasket between my headers and heads.  Good luck.

[aduc1791]

Thanks for the replies.
I do not think it is a header leak as I changed out the gaskets with new RemFlex recently and they appear to be well sealed. I have isolated the noise to the right side of the the engine by placing a long screwdriver on the head and placing my ear to it. I could hear the ticking noise distinctly.

Could you explain more on checking the rocker and pushrods for play?

Regarding changing the lifters; I have done this in the past on another 'Cuda that I had nyears ago, but I also changed the CAM at the same time. Isn't this recommended to ensure that the new lifters wear in properly with a new CAM versus a CAM that may be worn with poor duration?

Finally, has anyone actually flushed thier engine with diesel before? If so, what was your procedure?

Thanks all...

[Oldschool]

I usually drain out a quart or so of the current engine oil and add a quart of diesel fuel. Run it for a day or so then change the oil and add the correct oil and a new filter.  Sometimes this will flush out anything in the oiling system and "loosen" stuck parts such as lifters.        

[dodge freak 2]

All the rockers should be tight..no slack in between the pushrod and rocker. Solid lifter yes, there be about .030 that is why you can hear a solid lifter cam ticking away at idle speeds.

Its so easy to change the lifter I see no need to flush the motor..might break up even more junk...replacing the oil pan is far more work but would help to clean the motor...