Tapping noise and vibration when cold, Regal 2001 3.8 v6

[HotZ28]

Originally Posted by mikesmith20001

The noise sounds like hitting a piece of tin metal with a small light hammer, with a slight noise of compressed air being released.

A couple of friends heard it and said it sounded like tappets to them.

Once car is warmed up, it's back to running great.Thanks

Please keep in mind, this engine has roller lifters and it is very rare that one would have lifter noise at 65K, unless the engine has been severely neglected or missed regular maintenance schedules. Also, a harmonic balancer will make a hammering sound at idle, (like a hammer hitting cast iron) either cold, or hot, it makes no difference, the sound will continue! (You said the noise disappears once warmed up). I would check for exhaust leaks around the manifolds and the header connections. In addition, check all the spark plugs to be sure they are tight. Both of these will make a noise similar to what you described when cold, then will disappear once the engine is warm. (Metal expands when hot). The compressed air escaping, sounds like a loose plug!