Big Time Problem Maybe (Engine)!
Guest
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Big Time Problem Maybe (Engine)!
I finally get a buyer for my car. I haven't sold it to him yet. I was driving the car to a muffler shop for some work for the new owner. I hear a persistant tap or knock coming from the heart of the enginne. I listened to it at an idle. It sounds like a rod knocking or according to one of the local car guys, a thrust bearing going bad. When the engine is reved up, the noise increases and matches the engine rpm if that makes sense. If it is a rod or bearing, what am I looking at for a repair?
Instructor
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 112
Likes: 1
From: Chadds Ford PA
Before you pull you engine out, make sure you don't have a sticky lifter. When these cars aren't driven very much, varnish and sludge build up can prevent your lifters from pumping up, which will produce valve train noise. An oil change with a cleaning additive and a nice long drive ought to do the trick if that's your problem.
Although bottom end problems are a possibility, it is not likely absent a situation involving low oil, water in the oil, significant overheating or prolonged high rpms.
Although bottom end problems are a possibility, it is not likely absent a situation involving low oil, water in the oil, significant overheating or prolonged high rpms.
Racer
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 497
Likes: 0
From: Streator Illinois
It's very difficult to diagnose a problem without hearing it. You don't say what weight oil you are using but if it's something like 5W20 or 5W30, you could try a heavier oil like 20W50 just to see if the noise goes away.
Better yet, you could pull the oil pan and check rod bearing clearances and/or examine the bearing inserts. Replacing rod bearings would not be that difficult or expensive but if the engine is worn that much, other parts such as oil pump, main bearings, and rings might soon need attention as well.
You are selling the car so it's your call if you want to go beyond just fixing the immediate problem.
Terry
Racer
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 291
Likes: 6
From: Delray Beach FL
I felt your pain. I had a knock that turned out to be a spun bearing and toasted crank. Try removing the belts and run the motor. You may get lucky and it a water pump. Have you lost any oil pressure? Also pull the valve covers and see if all the lifters are moving.
