lifter knock??

[carvinR]

i have a 326 engine from 1965 tempest(gto clone) and i can hear a tick coming from lifters "i heard something awhile ago about that if these engines dont use a certin gas? they will knock? if this is true do i have to put some sort of additive in the gas or do i like have to get a higher grade gas?

[quick69gto]

The gas knock they are referring to is called pre-ignition knock. It's when the fuel/air mixture ignites before the spark plug ignites the mixture. Higher compression engines built during the 60's have a tenancy to pre-ignite when using low octane gas.
I don't think your 326 falls under that category.
Does the lifter tick sound like one lifter or does it sound like more than one lifter is ticking?
If it sounds like one lifter, then I would check the adjustment. Pull the valve covers and adjust, or if it's a non adjustable valve train, make sure all the nuts are cinched down. You can also play with motor oil weight. You can try a heavier or lighter viscosity oil to possibly get rid of the tick.
Ultimately, if all the lifters seem to be ticking, it's a sign that either the lifters are worn out or the cam has worn down to the point that the lifters can't compensate for the wider clearances. That condition requires a cam and lifter replacement. While you're at it, a new timing gear set.
If your 326 has a non adjustable valve train, then you are limited on what performance cams you can use. I would suggest finding a standard GTO grind.
If your engine has an adjustable valve train, then you have more cam choices.

Good luck!