Engine Ticking/Chatter please help

MrBB · #1 09-19-2004, 07:29 PM

I have recently started to hear some loud ticking sounds coming from what seems to be under my valve cover. I think it may be improperly torqued valves, but I am unsure. The engine only has around 5k miles on it. Any help on what this sound could be is greatly appreciated.

andrewespo · #2 09-19-2004, 07:44 PM

What is the model and engine? What type of gas do you use?

BigDanTheMan · #3 09-20-2004, 04:01 AM

before you panic spring for premium gas a few times, see if that makes it go away.

MrBB · #4 09-20-2004, 09:16 AM

It is a 94 supercharged 3.8L and it has premium gas in it. Vortech suggested that I use it.

Mendari · #5 09-21-2004, 11:58 AM

It's a 1994 with only 5,000 miles on the engine. So the engine is new? What's the engine's architecture? Pushrod or Overhead Cams?

MrBB · #6 09-21-2004, 12:22 PM

Yes it is new, I was one of the many people who had their head gasket fail and thus lost the ability for my engine to cool itself and had some heat damage, so I just replaced it. It a completely new motor minus accessories and other stuff that was transferred to this motor. It is a stock replacement motor for a 1994 3.8L Mustang. So later my parents suprised me with a supercharger for a graduation gift. The motor was installed by a local Ford dealership. The superchager was installed by myself and one other person who has installed Vortech products before. Earlier today I tried a half tank of 93 octane gas vs the 92 I used before, but did not have any different results. The ticking/chatter sound is made whether the engine is cold or hot.

Mendari · #7 09-21-2004, 02:20 PM

You sound like a bright kid, so you probably already checked the oil level. The Vortech probably needs about 1/2 a quart extra. How about adjusting the valve rockers?

MrBB · #8 09-21-2004, 04:01 PM

HEH, I figured out my problem. I never thought to check because it didn't sound like gases leaking.... Cylinder 1 spark plug had worked its way out somehow.... Just to the point where the gasses could get out between the threads. I still can't figure out how, but it did... I feel like an idiot. It sure had me worried though! Thanks for your time and input.

BigDanTheMan · #9 09-21-2004, 04:34 PM

way to trouble shoot. now i too have learned from this experience.

Mendari · #10 09-21-2004, 05:10 PM

Double-check all of the plugs to make sure that they are all the correct type ( flat vs. tappered ). If one spark plug shook loose, then the others might too.

MrBB · #11 09-21-2004, 05:12 PM

I did and the rest are still tight! Thanks!

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